Learning about Microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion is a technique used by doctors and plastic surgeons to revitalize the skin and help it feel fresher and more alive after the ill effects from the sun. It is a technique where a fine sandblaster actually sprays very tiny crystals across the individual's face.

These crystals are mixed with an abrasion that gently sucks these crystals away and removes dead skin from the outer layer of the individual's skin. In other words, you get another way to exfoliate the skin.

Some of the reasons people have this procedure is to get rid of dry skin that was damaged by the sun or to remove dark spots on the skin; this can also be used to lessen the effects of scaring or remove scars completely. Microdermabrasion has also been used successfully to treat acne though treatments are repeated in order to get the best effect.

This microdermabrasion process has a couple of different ways that it can be performed.

Crystal microdermabrasion

Crystal microdermabrasion is the traditional way of dong this procedure and it uses abrasive crystals that are sprayed on to the skin as already described. This is rather like a buffing process that you might see done on your vehicle.

Diamond microdermabrasion

The diamond microdermabrasion method doesn't use crystals but instead uses diamond tipped heat. Once the crystals come in contact with the skin, the crystals just pull the dead skin away from the face in the areas where it is used.

Home microdermabrasion

Although you will see many home microdermabrasion systems on the market from leading cosmetic companies and skin care manufacturers, these are not as effective as professional microdermabrasion treatments.

This process has also been seen as a good alternative to treating stretch marks because of the way that it works with scars. Many day spas offer microdermabrasion as another way to exfoliate the skin while you are relaxing with a facial.