If you have been struggling with acne, you have probably at least heard the term dermabrasion mentioned, but you probably don’t really know that much about it. Before deciding if a procedure is right for you, you should know as much as possible about it. By gathering information about different treatments or procedures meant to reduce or eliminate acne, you will be able to make a wise, informed decision.
How it Works
Dermabrasion is used to refinish the skin’s surface by implementing a surgical method. The method is a type of measured and monitored scraping. The purpose is to smooth out the surface of the skin to help alleviate blemishes and create an improved appearance. It is more commonly used to remove acne scars as opposed to acne breakouts. In fact, a large percentage of surgeons will not perform this method during active breakouts because the risk of infection increases
The procedure involves use of a hand-held instrument that removes the top layer or layers of skin. In some cases, anesthesia may be required. The length of time involved in the procedure depends on the depth of the scar tissue and, therefore, can vary from lasting a few minutes to an hour or two. After the procedure, you can expect your skin to be red, swollen and ultra sensitive. The aftermath can last as long as 10 days, but depends upon how extensive the procedure was and your own ability to heal.
Who Is It Good for?
The first thing you should consider is that you need to have realistic expectations. Dermabrasion, or any type of treatment, will not be able to eliminate 100% of the scarring, in most cases. Speak with your doctor to get a good idea of how much improvement you can actually expect to notice as a result.
Dermabrasion can be an appropriate technique to use regardless of gender or age. Your general health and medical history and skin traits play much more of a factor on the amount of success you will have and if you are a good candidate for dermabrasion. Those who have darker skin tones may end up with different issues, such as permanently blotchy skin. If you have a medical history that is concerning or if you have endured radiation, previous chemical peels or even bad sunburns, you may not be a good candidate for dermabrasion.
Side Effects of Dermabrasion
Although side effects from dermabrasion are rare, they are possible, as with any medical procedure. Again, much of this depends on an individual’s ability to recover and can vary due to age, gender and general health status. One thing you should be aware of is that you run a good chance of losing freckles that appear in the area intended for treatment.
Aside from that, uneven coloring in the skin, blotchiness that may be temporary or permanent is a possibility. The same is true of an overall darkening of the skin in the treated area. This often occurs, though, as a direct effect of exposure to sun within the first few months following the treatment. There is also a risk of scarring and, in some cases, infection may result. You can increase your chances for a speedy recovery by avoiding things such as cigarettes and alcohol. Also, aspirin or ibuprofen should not be taken for at least a week while in recovery. For those who may not be candidates for dermabrasion or don’t feel they would like to go through a measure quite this intense, you can opt for MicroDermabrasion and try it in the comfort of your own home.
Products for Home Treatments
Although you may not be able to perform a surgical procedure such as dermabrasion, in your home, you can use a similar method called MicroDermabrasion. Several manufacturers of home beauty products make a version of this.
- One popular product is the Olay Regenerist MicroDermabrasion and Peel Kit. Derma-crystals are applied like a mask and then massaged for up to a minute. This is a safe and effective method that can be used as often as twice a week.
- There’s also the Neutrogena Microdermabrasion System that includes a battery operated applicator and cleanser. This can be used up to three times a week, for optimal results.
- The St. Ives Timeless Skin Daily Microdermabrasion, though, is meant to be, obviously, used daily. This product contains all natural extracts and fine mineral crystals, chamomile and vitamin E.