Microdermabrasion in Reading

The human skin basically consists mainly of two layers, epidermis and dermis. The epidermis is the topmost surface skin layer. It is made up of dead skin-cells piled upon cell layers that are yet to mature.

Microdermabrasion is used generally to define the process of using very minute rough grains to scrub off the surface skin layer. It is the use of a mechanical process of abrasion to remove the outer-most layer of the epidermis to reveal a more desirable skin tone. It is a non-surgical cosmetic procedural process practiced by non-physician personnel, aestheticians, nurses, medical assistants, including untrained individuals in their homes and it should not be confused with dermabrasion which can only be performed by a certified dermatologist or trained plastic surgeon in a professional medical facility. In the real sense, many treatments and different products use this procedure, some of which include salon treatments, medical procedures, and even do-it-yourself home used creams and scrubs. The application is usually on the face, neck, chest, arms and hands.

The Benefits

Microdermabrasion can be used for the treatment of various skin problems. Since inception, about 30 years ago when the first microdermabrasion was performed in Italy, it has considerably helped with the treatment of skin discolouration and acne scars, sun damage, hyperpigmentation, and melisma to mention a few. Of recent, it is also used as a veritable plastic surgery alternative because it is cheaper and less invasive. A lot more people use it as a form of appearance-lifter. The process takes off the outer layer of the skin; newer skin cells will then replace this and thus give the appearance of softer, healthier skin sheen. This allows for the skin to absorb more nutrients from moisturising creams thereby improving the overall skin appearance.

The Process

The process is painless, requiring no anaesthetic, and lasts between two and sixty minutes from start to finish. The procedure is performed by a dermatologist or aesthetician with a specifically designed handheld machine. Moreover, it can be self-applied at home by using some do-it-yourself specific facial scrubs with sandpapers. This is then followed by applying essential oils and moisturising creams to the new skin layer. Typically, a microdermabrasion process may be performed by effectively cleaning off all oils and make-up on the skin surface in preparation for the operation. Great care should be observed in protecting the eyes as crystals used in the machine may get contact with the eyes. The device is then moved slowly across the skin repeatedly until enough outer skin is removed.

After Effects

The after effects of this procedure are generally light and don’t lead to emergencies like bleeding except in very rare cases. One of the most experienced negative side effects of microdermabrasion is photo-sensitivity after the process of shedding the skin. This is because of the sensitivity of the new cells, which have replaced the already abraded dead cells, to both touch and sunlight. It is always advisable to keep out of sunlight or wear sunscreens if it’s necessary that you go out. Others are redness, bruising and skin tightness, which may occur shortly after the process but quickly heals over within a short time.