Microdermabrasion is a popular cosmetic procedure that is designed to remove the epidermis layer of the skin so that a new, young skin layer will form. The first equipment used consisted of a powered rotating sandpaper style wheel. Yes, it was as painful as it sounds. Its side effects not only included pain but slight scarring and sometimes an infection. An anesthesia was necessary before and after the procedure. In the early 1950’s a motorized softer brush was used instead of an abrasive wheel. By the late 1950’s, crystal microdermabrasion sprays were invented. Minute particles of crystals were sprayed onto the skin to remove dead cells. Following this invention, the diamond microdermabrasion machine was designed to exfoliate the skin.

How is the microdermabrasion treatment performed?

Today this treatment is more a cosmetic skin rejuvenation treatment. It is used to treat light scarring (for example, acne, skin discoloration, etc), reduce age spots, sun damage and stretch marks. It is now considered a non-invasive skin treatment and most importantly, it is painless.

There are two popular types of microdermabrasion treatments. Crystal microdermabrasion which sprays tiny crystals across the skin with an advanced hand-held device. There is an attached vacuum that suctions back into the machine, dead cells, exfoliated skin and remaining crystals. The other type is the diamond microdermabrasion wand with a diamond tip. It is placed close to the skin and is moved around to exfoliate. The diamond tip wand also has a suction section to suck in all the dead skin. Jefferson Facial Plastics in Philadelphia uses the diamond-tipped wand with suction for superior results.

What does microdermabrasion do to the skin?

In only 15 – 30 minutes, a microdermabrasion treatment will leave your skin very smooth to the touch and shiny in appearance. This treatment stimulates the skin to create new collagen and cells for surface skin. This technique smoothes away rough skin, helps to fade away skin blemishes and brown spots, as in aging. The vacuum part of the microdermabrasion device actually clears out clogged pores filled with dirt and oil. After a treatment, the skin is radiant and is younger looking.

How does microdermabrasion give the skin a brighter, clearer look?

Microdermabrasion operates mainly on the epidermis. The surface of the skin is the protection for the body and it is bombarded by the environment every day. The epidermis rejuvenates itself ever so often. The outer layer includes dead skin cells and keratin. It is this factor that microdermabrasion removes. It is dead cells that can make our skin look dull. Using a microdermabrasion treatment, renews the skin’s luster, making it brighter, clearer and younger looking in appearance. When heavy dead cells are removed, then the body can regenerate new collagen cells to help the epidermis layer to renew itself.

Microdermabrasion treatments are best performed by a certified esthetician. Our knowledge of the equipment and how to adjust it for your skin type will reduce any redness and give you a more younger looking you. Call us at Jefferson Facial Plastics in Philadelphia today to schedule a consultation and let us introduce you to a microdermabrasion treatment that will have you looking like you are ready to walk the red carpet.