The Amazing Ways Microdermabrasion Can Turn Back The Clock

When you hear the word microdermabrasion, what image comes to mind?

Let's just take the word abrasion. Many of my clients (before seeing me, of course) tend to describe this word as "harsh" or "scary" sounding.

After all, abrasion does mean "to scrape."

So, I am sure you're wondering: how on earth can that word relate in any positive way when it comes to your skin?

I am excited to get you the inside scoop on just that, today!

Microdermabrasion has a host of wonderful benefits.

It helps those with acne-prone skin by unclogging and minimizing the appearance of the pores.

It smooths and refreshes the skin's surface.

It's an excellent anti-aging treatment, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles to reveal smoother, more vibrant looking skin.

And best of all, It's a procedure that can benefit nearly all skin types!

So, What Exactly Is Microdermabrasion?

Just in case you're unfamiliar with microdermabrasion, and what it does for your skin, here are some facts you might want to consider.

Microdermabrasion is a gentle exfoliation of the skin, removing dead skin cells, dirt, debris, and other impurities, to reveal a fresh, more vibrant complexion.

It leaves your skin feeling smooth and healthy, and can aid in clearing acne-prone skin, as well as provide a more youthful appearance to aging skin.

All in all, the beneficial effects of microdermabrasion are numerous, allowing you to turn back the clock on the skin not only on your face but your neck and chest as well, should you choose to go that route.

The results of microdermabrasion are lasting, vastly improving the condition of your skin from the inside out.

So while the word "abrasion" may sound scary and/or harsh, when it comes to what it can do for the look and feel of your skin, its benefits are plentiful and the process much gentler than you might imagine. ;)

A Treat For Your Skin

Microdermabrasion is typically performed in a spa setting by a licensed esthetician or dermatologist.

The procedure involves the use of a machine equipped with a stream of fine crystals or a diamond tip.

Some systems also include a suctioning function that vacuums the skin, whisking away dead cells and impurities. The procedure is reasonably short and requires little to no recovery time - but of course, I encourage you to check with your skin care professional about possible post-treatment sensitivity, and products you should be using after your procedure!

A Bevy Of Benefits

So are there other obvious benefits of a microdermabrasion session, in addition to what we've talked about so far? The short answer: absolutely, yes! Microdermabrasion can...

1. Reduce the appearance of superficial hyperpigmentation and age spots. AKA: those pesky little signs of aging that slowly appear in our mirrors (after all, aging is a fact of life, right?).

2. Aid in the penetration of skin care products by up to 50% and allow for a smoother application of makeup.

3. Stimulate blood flow and increase the delivery of nutrients to the skin cells, promoting improved cell production and skin elasticity.

What Should You Expect?

First, I want to be clear that there is a difference between dermabrasion and microdermabrasion.

Dermabrasion is a more invasive procedure than microdermabrasion, penetrating more deeply into the skin's layers.

It can take up to several hours and leave your skin red, swollen, and extremely sensitive for up to ten days, so be sure you clarify with your dermatologist which of these procedures you are looking for.

Dermabrasion is more appropriate for those with deep wrinkles, scars, or moderate to severe hyperpigmentation, as it removes several layers of skin and goes deeper into the skin's surface, and can require the use of anesthesia.

If that all sounds a little too crazy for you, you can take a deep breath!

For most of us, microdermabrasion is the better option.

It provides many of the same benefits, but is much less invasive and involves little to no post-procedure recovery.

You can be in and out of a microdermabrasion session during your lunch hour and return to work without feeling like you want to hide behind a mask (depending on your skin type, treatment option, and esthetician, of course!).

How Does the After-Care Process Typically Go?

Once you've uncovered your beautiful, healthy looking skin, a little extra TLC may be in order!

While generally well-received, microdermabrasion can reduce your skin's moisture level and make it more sun sensitive, so it is important to be ready with the appropriate post-procedure products when you are leaving your appointment.

Your esthetician or dermatologist will likely follow your session with skin conditioning moisturizers (and oftentimes, a good SPF).

If you are concerned about post-microdermabrasion redness, or are anticipating an appearance in front of a camera, be sure to ask your skin care specialist if they can provide or recommend a good foundation that won't irritate your newly treated skin.

If you are particularly concerned about post-treatment sensitivity, or know beforehand that your skin will be needing some serious relief, I highly recommend checking out Image Skincare's I Rescue Post-Treatment Recovery Balm.

This product will support your skin's regenerative processes following your procedure and help you get the most benefit from your session.

Pro Tip: This product was designed for post-chemical and post-laser treatment, meaning it can deliver the ultimate in soothing and healing benefits. It is also deeply hydrating.

Getting Your Microdermabrasion on At-Home

Now, it goes without saying that not everyone will have the time, or the budget, to head to their local day spa for regular microdermabrasion procedures.

So, what is a busy lady to do?

Here are some of my favorite products for getting comparable results from the comfort of your own home.

Of course, since you are dealing with abrading your skin, I do recommend you speak with a skin care professional to help you decide which of these options would be best for your skin type and needs! :)

1. PMD Personal Microderm Device. Here's a nifty little device that mimics a spa microdermabrasion session right in your home! It gently removes dead skin cells, leaving your skin glowing and vibrant looking. With the PMD at your fingertips, beautiful luminous skin is as close as your bathroom mirror. How cool is that?

2. Epicuren Pumpkin Apple Spice Peel. Rumored to be a favorite of many celebrities, this fabulous product is a treat for both your skin and your senses. It's appropriate for those with acne, as well as anyone with dry, aging, normal, sensitive, or oily skin. In short, it's perfect for just about anyone.

3. HydroPeptide Anti-Wrinkle Polish & Plump Peel. This two-step process allows you to enjoy all the benefits of microdermabrasion, a facial peel and more from the comfort of your home. Enriched with collagen-boosting peptides and wrinkle-relaxing neuropeptides that improve your skin's elasticity and youthfulness, it's a perfect option when you can't or don't want to visit the spa.

Are There Skin Types That Should Avoid Microdermabrasion?

As I mentioned before, microdermabrasion is safe for nearly every type of skin or skin condition.

What is important is that you work with your esthetician or dermatologist in creating a protocol that is uniquely suited to your skin needs.

Only a trained professional can tell you whether microdermabrasion will be right for your skin, based on your medical history and unique conditions, so don't be afraid to inquire if you're feeling curious!

Whether you opt for a full spa treatment, or decide to opt for something you can use at-home, regular microdermabrasion is a great way to keep your skin glowing, radiant, and healthy.

I'm curious, what are some of your favorite ways to exfoliate your skin? Do you go to your esthetician, or do you achieve results from the comfort of home?