Dermabrasion and Microdermabrasion

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With dermabrasion, a dermatologist or plastic surgeon "sands" your skin with a special instrument. The procedure makes way for a new, smoother layer of skin to replace the skin that's been treated.

Microdermabrasion uses tiny exfoliating crystals that are sprayed on the skin. It works best on problems such as dull skin, brown spots, and age spots.

When Is Dermabrasion or Microdermabrasion Used?

Dermabrasion was developed to improve acne scars, pox marks, and scars from accidents or disease. It's not effective in treating congenital skin defects, most moles, pigmented birthmarks, or scars due to burns.

Dermabrasion is generally only safe for people with fair skin. For people with darker skin colors, dermabrasion can result in scarring or discoloration.

Microdermabrasion works on all skin types and colors. It makes subtle changes, causing no skin color change or scarring. It is not effective for deeper problems such as scars, stretch marks, wrinkles, or deep acne scars.

With microdermabrasion, there is less down time than with dermabrasion. Skin is pink but fully recovers within 24 hours. It's a nonsurgical procedure. No anesthetics are used. It's ideal for people who cannot take time off from work or social activities for healing.

Before You Get Dermabrasion or Microdermabrasion?

You'll consult with the professional who's doing the procedure.

In a dermabrasion consultation, you and the doctor will discuss your goals, the procedure's risks and benefits, and the type of anesthesia that will be used. You'll also get instructions to follow before and after dermabrasion and perhaps have "before" photos taken to compare with your results later.

With microdermabrasion, the consultation is similar but with less talk about anesthetics and risks because it is a simpler procedure.

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