1. Am I a candidate for Microdermabrasion? If you have or have had acne, discolorations, lines and wrinkles, uneven texture or sun damaged skin -- you may be a candidate for Microdermabrasion. Microdermabrasion can not be expected to removed deep scars or wrinkles, birth marks or tattoos. If you have no history of hypo/hyperpigmentation or keloid scarring in your family you should consider microdermabrasion as an alternative to a deeper invasive peel. 2. What is Microdermabrasion? Microdermabrasion is a mini procedure that involves the skin being"sandblasted" by aluminum oxide crystals to remove the horny (top) layer of the skin; dead skin cells. And to promote the production of new cells in the basal (deepest) layer of the dermis. It can clean your pores incredibly and hinder any future break outs if used on a regular basis. Microdermabrasion also stimulates collagen networking to further even out skin texture and appearance.

 3. When is Microdermabrasion usually performed?
Microdermabrasion can be performed anytime, with sessions at 10 days apart from each other for best results. Although this procedure can not be expected to remove serious sun damage. It is best for women to schedule this procedure in the first two weeks after their menstrual cycle as, the skin is more sensitive nearing and during this time.

4. What does a typical Microdermabrasion consultation entail?
There really is no consultation, per se. This is such a non-invasive mini procedure that the details can be explained in 5 minutes and the rewards for such a long period of time if a series is undergone. Although maintenance sessions every few months should be sought.

5. How is Microdermabrasion performed?
A cleansing toner is applied to the skin to remove excess oils for better application and penetration. A self contained wand is manually passed over the skin in areas of damage or all over the face, which is usually the case. The machine delivers fine, sanitary aluminum oxide crystals to the face that "sand blasts" away dead skin and impurities. The procedure lasts about 20 to 30 minutes, depending upon the 'depth or 'strength' of the peel. Afterwards a cotton ball saturated with a soothing toner is passed over the face then a re-hydrating cream and sun block are applied.

6. What should I expect after Microdermabrasion?
You can expect to feel as if you have a mild sun burn or windburn. Your skin will feel very dry and may peel. This is natural and is the purpose of the procedure. You should regularly apply a high quality moisturizer as well as a high protection sunblock. Do not expose your face to sunlight for long periods of time, not even tanning beds. You should not use any exfoliating scrubs or lotions beforehand or afterwards for at least 3 days. Your skin will be smoother and the damage will be lessened. Although for serious damage a series (of 4 to 6 sessions) can be scheduled at 5 day intervals. It truly depends upon your technician.

7. Does Microdermabrasion hurt?
Microdermabrasion does not hurt although it may sting a little around the eye area. The patient normally works up as they go to increase the penetration level. Your skin may feel a little hot and appear a little pink for the first day.

8. Will Microdermabrasion get rid of my fine lines, wrinkles and acne scars?
In most cases, yes. Although severe scarring will not be lessened in appearance with solely Microdermabrasion. Sometimes a regimen of Retin-A and or Glycolic treatments in conjunction with Microdermabrasion will increase your chances for the best results possible. But if you don't want to peel like a snake for 6 weeks then maybe Microdermabrasion is for you. Although it will take you MUCH longer to get the results of Obagi with Retin A.

9. Is there a lot of swelling involved with a Microdermabrasion?
It is extremely rare that you may swell at all after Microdermabrasion. This procedure is so very un-invasive yet it really works with time. I noticed a difference after one treatment.

10. When can I return to work?
You can return to work immediately with the application of a little loose powder. You may choose to schedule this on your day off or at least after work. Many patients schedule it on their lunch break and return with pink skin. There is no downtime per se, involved with Microdermabrasion.

11. When will I be able to see the results?
Results are often, immediate. We're not talking life-altering results here, but a nice, clean, smooth feeling is apparent directly after. At least with a high quality machine. You will notice that your skin to be more even toned and textured. After the horny layer (dull dead skin cells) is removed you will notice an improvement overall. Especially after a series.

12. What are the risks of Microdermabrasion?
There are not many risks associated with microdermabrasion if you are a healthy adult, but enough to mention for those of you with skin or medical conditions. If the medical grade machines are used at high power it carries potential risks of hyperpigmentation, perforation, bleeding, and infection. Infection can also be a risk if the machines are not sterile. Many components of these machines are meant to be sterilized, autoclaved or changed out with a new disposable piece. Any and all pieces that come into contact with your skin should be able to be sterilized or changed out.

13. Is there maintenance with Microdermabrasion?
Not really maintenance but it is best that you schedule a session every few months for general upkeep. I hardly consider that maintenance, by definition. You will not magically return to your former damaged skin tone condition although occasional session can only make it better.