Exfoliation Techniques
Microdermabrasion is a clinical exfoliation technique that quickly improves the appearance of your skin. If your skin has become dull or damaged from aging or exposure to the elements, it may be a good time to perform a thorough exfoliation with a series of microdermabrasion treatments.
Using suction and gentle abrasion, microdermabrasion buffs away dead skin cells to improve your complexion. The results are comparable to a light chemical peel. This treatment is very popular because it is simple, there’s no downtime, and it has a low risk of side effects.
Plastic surgeons recommend microdermabrasion for patients who exhibit conditions such as:
- Mild sun damage
- Uneven skin texture
- Dull complexion

Imagine a very fine sand blaster and you'll get a picture of how microdermabrasion works. It uses microparticles, or a diamond-tipped wand, to slough off the top layer (epidermis) of your skin and stimulate new skin growth. This technique also helps to thicken your collagen, which results in smoother and younger looking skin. There is almost no discomfort in microdermabrasion, meaning you won't need a topical or local anesthetic and there is no recovery or downtime.
Additional risks include the following:
- Mild post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
- Bruising which can occur from the suction, which may last several days.
- Your skin will be more sensitive to sun exposure. Be sure to use sunscreen, especially immediately following a microdermabrasion session.
After microdermabrasion, you can return to your routine immediately. Compared to a laser treatment or dermabrasion, the abrasive mechanism of this treatment is very gentle. You can expect a minor improvement with each treatment session. After the series, you should notice a significant improvement in your overall appearance.