Microdermabrasion

The microdermabrasion process works by breaking up and removing the stratum corneum (the outermost layer of skin). This is the layer that gets weathered due to its constant exposure to the sun, pollution, smoke, and other toxins. The newly exposed layer beneath is fresh and new, revealing a more youthful look.

When the top layer is removed, the body treats the change as a mild injury and supplies new cells to replace the missing ones. This additionally helps to boost collagen levels, making the skin plumper and firmer.

Microdermabrasion can be used as a treatment for mild surface scarring, hyperpigmentation, large pores, dull skin, and photodamage. It can also clear blocked pores that lead to the formation of blackheads and milia cysts.

Microdermabrasion exfoliates by gently “sanding” away the older surface layer of the skin, revealing a vibrant, younger-looking complexion. There are two main types of microdermabrasion: crystal and crystal-free.

Traditional microdermabrasion treatments involve spraying ultrafine crystals directly onto the skin’s surface to abrade the outermost layers of skin. The crystals are then vacuumed away, along with dead skin cells loosened by the treatment.

Cirillo Cosmetic Dermatology Spa uses a crystal-free device. This is a less abrasive version, suitable for patients with more sensitive or acne-prone skin. Instead of ultrafine crystals, abrasion is achieved with a diamond-tipped device that “polishes” the surface. There are no crystals to remove, though dead cells are still suctioned away.

Crystal-free microdermabrasion offers the same rejuvenating benefits as the traditional method, with less swelling and tenderness associated with crystals. It is also safer for the patient and the skin care therapist, as there are no crystals to inhale.

Facial skin loses volume and moisture as it ages. This is because the cyclical processes that produce collagen, hyaluronic acid, and elastin in the skin slow over time. Collagen is important for firm, smooth skin. Hyaluronic acid maintains skin moisturization. Elastin allows the skin to “bounce back” after it is pulled out of shape. As these elements are depleted, the skin begins to develop an aged appearance with wrinkles and a dry, dull complexion.

Skin can also be significantly impacted by long-term exposure to sunlight. Ultraviolet radiation hastens the breakdown of collagen, hyaluronic acid, and elastin, as well as damages skin cell DNA. Sun exposure is the primary cause of wrinkles, sun spots, rough skin, damaged blood vessels, and skin cancer.

Microdermabrasion encourages cells to produce new collagen and other vital elements. It also facilitates the removal of dead skin cells that fail to fully fall away during the skin’s natural turnover processes. If left to sit on the surface, these cells create flaky, dry patches, clogged pores, and an overall dulled complexion.

Patients typically report that microdermabrasion is not a painful treatment, though it does produce what may be described as a gentle, warming sensation. Some people experience temporary redness and tightness of the skin in the hours after a session. These effects will resolve quickly without intervention.

No downtime is required after a treatment session. The treated skin may feel slightly sensitive as it heals over the next seven to 10 days, but patients are free to return to work or social activities right away. The skin may initially appear pink, but will typically return to its normal color within 24 to 48 hours. Patients are encouraged to keep the area clean, avoid sun exposure and wear sunscreen, and refrain from wearing makeup for the first 24 hours.

Chemical peels represent another popular option for women and men seeking a more youthful-looking appearance and clearer skin. Like microdermabrasion, peels treat complexion dullness and pigmentation issues by enhancing the removal of the outer most layers of the skin.

Microneedling is an additional treatment for stimulating collagen production. This device uses small needles to create tiny wound channels that promote healing and skin repair.