Microdermabrasion is becoming increasingly popular in the United States. In fact, in 2017, dermatologists and plastic surgeons performed a whopping 740,287 microdermabrasion procedures. From young to old, those who feel unsatisfied with the appearance and health of their skin have been turning to this practice as a kind of skin treatment and beauty therapy. But what exactly is microdermabrasion?
What is Micro dermabrasion?
Besides a 17-letter word, microdermabrasion is a surgical practice that uses minimally-invasive tools to exfoliate the skin. The procedure removes the thin top layer of skin to reveal younger, healthier skin beneath. Microdermabrasion is essentially a deep exfoliation technique.
How Does It Work?
Microdermabrasion tools use fine crystals to gently sand away the outermost layer of dead skin cells. Sometimes, microdermabrasion can also involve a fine spray of aluminum oxide particles or sodium bicarbonate in tandem with suction tools, which yield the same results as crystals.
What Are The Benefits of Microdermabrasion?
Microdermabrasion is used to treat a variety of skin blemishes and concerns. Most commonly, it is used as an anti-aging treatment, because it can improve hyperpigmentation, reduce fine lines and wrinkles, and encourage a younger, fresher appearance.
However, this procedure is more than an anti-aging treatment. Virtually anyone who is looking for skin brightening techniques or to improve skin elasticity might benefit from microdermabrasion. This practice can even reduce the appearance of acne by limiting blackheads and shrinking pores.
Furthermore, microdermabrasion has been associated with improved performance of skincare products. Lotions, face masks, and acne washes better penetrate the skin after dead cells have been lifted away. Due to improved product efficacy, patients often notice that microdermabrasion improves their appearance for an extended period of time, since skincare products work better to maintain their results.
Perhaps the biggest benefit of microdermabrasion is safety. Unlike other acne and anti-aging treatment options, microdermabrasion requires no lasers, chemicals, or invasive surgeries. Because of its simplicity, microdermabrasion rarely results in complications beyond slight skin irritations during and after the procedure. Most patients only notice a slight tightening of the skin that disappears within a few hours.
Is Microdermabrasion Expensive?
Microdermabrasion performed by specialists will likely cost a few hundred dollars. However, with such long-lasting results, this procedure is widely considered to be cost-effective. Additionally, this deep exfoliation strategy still costs considerably less than more invasive forms of cosmetic surgery.
The Bottom Line
Microdermabrasion offers a wide range of skin benefits. It can help treat skin concerns ranging from frown lines to acne, while being much more affordable than other cosmetic procedures. If you're looking to improve the appearance of your skin, microdermabrasion might be the perfect choice!