Microdermabrasion is a non-invasive skin treatment that has been designed to gently exfoliate the skin, leaving the skin feeling smooth and refreshed. The name can be a bit of a mouthful, with clients often referring to it as ‘dermabrasion’. If we break the name down, it translates to:
Micro – small. Derm – Skin. Abrasion – scratch.
This translation sums up exactly what the treatment does – small scratches to the skin. But why is this a good thing? Let us explain!
How does Microdermabrasion work?
There are two types of microdermabrasion machines, one uses crystals and the other uses a diamond head. They both work a little differently, however the objective is the same. Microdermabrasion removes the topmost layer of the skin. All of the dead skin & debris gets suctioned into the device. With this removal of dead skin cells, microdermabrasion will promote cell renewal, improving the skin texture and appearance.
The goal with microdermabrasion is to create micro-trauma (a small wound) to the skin. This wound activates our bodies natural healing response which will repair the microdamage as well as your skin concern in the process. This process may sound a little traumatic, however it is how most other advanced skin treatments work. The microtrauma generated by Microdermabrasion is not as intensive as the micro-trauma generated by other treatments such as CO2 Laser or Radiofrequency (RF) Microneedling.
Crystal vs Diamond
Crystal microdermabrasion uses a device that blasts crystals onto the skin and vacuums up the dirt and debris from the skin, along with [most of] the used crystals. This method can be quite abrasive due to the irregular shape of the crystals – you generally want to only use smooth, circular elements when exfoliating the skin to avoid further damage to the skin.
Here at City Laser Clinic, we use the latest diamond microdermabrasion technology which works by gently buffing over the skin’s surface using a diamond tipped wand. Identically to the crystal microdermabrasion, the diamond microdermabrasion also uses a vacuum to suction the dead skin away. This method is safe for all skin types as we can alter the abrasiveness and suction to your comfort.
What can it treat?
Microdermabrasion will control oil production which means it works great for an oily skin type, extracts blackheads and can reduce acne. It will also soften and improve fine lines and wrinkles, lighten pigmentation, and stimulate collagen and elastin production, leaving your skin plumper and firmer.
After regular microdermabrasion treatments, your skin care products will be absorbed into the skin as there is minimal dead skin blocking them from entering your pores.
Downtime?
Microdermabrasion is a perfect lunch time treatment as the skin is only temporarily pink and subsides quite quickly. The results are instant as you can physically feel and see the difference immediately after the first treatment. If you are prone to acne, we recommend not applying makeup the day of your treatment to prevent further breakouts.
What areas can be treated?
We can treat any part of the body that you may require an intensive exfoliation or rejuvenation. The most common areas we regularly treat with microdermabrasion are the face, neck, hands, and décolletage.
How many treatments would I need?
Most clients require 6-8 treatments spaced 4-6 weeks apart for best results. The number of treatments that you require depend on what your skin concern is and how severe it is. We can generally advise you of this during your initial consultation.
We recommend combining microdermabrasion with other treatments such as laser skin rejuvenation or a peel for faster results. As with all other skin treatments, we always advise our clients to apply SPF 50+ to the skin everyday and reapply when required throughout the day as microdermabrasion can make your skin sensitive to the sun. Clients will not need to exfoliate for 5-7 days after treatment and are advised to just use a gentle cleanser. Avoiding products containing AHAs and BHAs, Vitamin A or retinol is also advised for at least 3 days after treatment.
Consultation
As with all skin treatments, we advise attending an initial consultation prior to commencing your treatments. In your consultation, we are able to assess your skin and discuss your skin concerns. This assessment will allow us to better guide you towards what treatment and products will help you best meet your skin health goals.
The consultation is $50, however this fee is deducted from your first treatment or is refunded if you attend the consultation and are not suitable for the treatment. To book a consultation, you can click here, or call us on (02) 9232 8090.
