Microdermabrasion is one of the easiest and most effective anti-aging treatments you can get. Its benefits are many and include softening fine lines and wrinkles, helping to smooth coarsely textured skin, decreasing the appearance of scarring, decreasing pore size, and reducing superficial hyper-pigmentation, also known as age spots or sun spots. It is also great for treating acne prone congested skins.
Microdermabrasion also makes it easier for cosmeceutical skin care products to penetrate into the deeper layers of the skin and help build collagen, which gives skin its youthful appearance. Studies have shown that a course of microdermabrasion treatments increases the production of collagen and elastin creating firmer and more youthful skin.
Microdermabrasion works by combining a diamond tip exfoliating head with vacuum suction to remove dead, dull skin cells from the skins surface and promote the production of new cells deep within the dermal layer.
The visual effects noted are much smoother and brighter skin, improved overall texture and a marked reduction in blemishes.
What can MDA treat?
- Improves photo ageing (premature ageing caused from the sun)
- Speeds up cell turn over
- Helps stimulate collagen and elastin production
- Improvement in superficial pigmentation including Melasma, Solar Lentigines (sun spots), freckles, actinic keratoses
- Improvement in fine lines and wrinkles
- Improvement in skin tone
- Some types of acne scarring are reduced
- Exfoliation of the skin’s upper layers allows improved absorption of products
- Excellent treatment for comedones (blackheads) and acne prone skin
- Improvement in the appearance of enlarged pores
Contra-indications (Reasons why MDA’s may not be suitable for you)
- Roaccutane use in the last 6 months
- Dermatitis, eczema or infection in the areas to be treated
- Abnormal wound healing – hypertrophic or keloid scarring
- Active Herpes simplex
- Recent photosensitizing treatments or medications (which can increase the risk of sunburn)
- The use of prescription retinoids within the last 30 days
- Recent botulinum toxin or dermal filler injections within the last 7 days
Note: Please advise if you are prone to cold sores. The use of an anti-viral medication/cream would be advised pre and post treatment.
How many sessions do I need?
We recommend a course of 4 to 6 microdermabrasion treatments performed weekly depending on skin type, skin condition and desired outcomes. We would then recommend monthly maintenance thereafter.
What does it feel like?
Diamond Microdermabrasion feels like a mild scratching to the surface of the skin combined with a minor tugging on the skin. The procedure may feel a little uncomfortable but shouldn’t be painful and your skin may feel a little tender following the treatment.
After the treatment?
- Mild to moderate redness and sensitivity lasting 2 to 24 hours
- Skin may feel a little tender
- Mild flaking/peeling can occur for approximately 2-7 days after your treatment, however this is uncommon
- Do not pick or peel the skin
- Skin will have a healthy glow, feel softer, smoother and clearer.
- It is important to protect new skin from sun by using a broad spectrum (UVA/UVB) SPF 30+ sunscreen daily
Potential complications
- Infection leading to a scar if areas of flaking/crusting aren’t properly cared for
- Possible herpes simplex outbreak may occur if you are prone to cold sores
- Hyperpigmentation (darker areas of pigment on the skin) lasting 1 to 12 months – extremely uncommon
- Acne eruptions
- Very mild swelling of the treatment area.
Skin Preparation
Prior to having a Microdermabrasion treatment, we recommend the discontinued use of over the counter Retinol, Glycolic and other Alpha Hydroxy Acids, Salicylic or Beta Hydroxy Acids, or other exfoliating products three (3) days prior to treatment. This is not essential, however you may see increased flaking/peeling post treatment.