Microdermabrasion is one of many methods to peel, exfoliate and rejuvenate skin and have been used since the time of the ancient Egyptian’s. Today microdermabrasion has gained popularity as a non-invasive method of skin resurfacing, but therapists need to be realistic in their expectations and accept that this treatment has its limitations.

Developed in Italy in 1985 and introduced in the US in the mid-1990’s microdermabrasion is one of the most popular procedures in the US (after Botox and collagen implants.) In 2003 alone, some 10 million treatments were performed globally, generating more than $1.3 billion!

Microdermabrasion is mechanical exfoliation that removes the uppermost layer of dead skin cells from the face, chest and hands.

It offers an answer to treat acne, smooth out acne scars, scar tissue and superficial lines and is an anti-aging skin rejuvenation treatment. It cannot, however, be used to treat deeper wrinkles or scars that extend into the deeper layers of the epidermis. It is also ineffective against pigmentation conditions such as post-inflammatory Hyperpigmentation.

It is vital to do proper client consultation before embarking on a series of microdermabrasion treatments. The therapist should be clear on the clients’ expectations and concerns and make sure that they have a realistic expectation of the outcome of the treatment. Clients must realise that they might have to go for a number of treatments to get significant results.

Performed properly, microdermabrasion is safe for all skin types, as the therapist can control the level of abrasion. There are few side effects and the treatments are quick, giving the complexion an immediate wow factor. The only contra-indications include the recent use of isotretinion (Accutane), active herpes infection, malignant skin tumours, evolving dermatoses and certain keratoses.

Benefits of Microdermabrasion

• It leaves skin with a fresher, more glowing look.
• Diminishes sun damages, fine lines and wrinkles, enlarged pores and coarse textured skin
• It makes it easy for high-tech skin care products to actually penetrate into the deeper layers of the skin and help build collagen, which gives skin its youthful appearance.

Other Names for Microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion is also known as particle resurfacing, power peel, derma-peel or Parisian peel. It takes about 20 – 30 minutes and there’s no down-time for the skin to recover. That’s why it’s also sometimes called a “lunchtime peel”.

CLINICAL BACKGROUND ON MICRODERMABRASION

Manual dermabrasion, chemical peeling and AHA’s have been traditionally used to treat a range of skin abnormalities. Some of these procedures have certain disadvantages such as being painful, or carrying a risk of pigmentation changes and further treatments are not always immediately possible.

Microdermabrasion is a safe, controlled and relatively painless procedure.

A controlled microdermabrasion treatment is:
• Precise and carried out on localised areas;
• Not dangerous and relatively painless;
• Reulsts are very successful and lasting and
• Applied on any type of skin

DIAMOND PEEL MICRODERMABRASION

Maintaining the level of cellular growth on the skin surface which directly relates to the freshness and youthfulness
of the skins’ appearance. On average, we renew our skin surface every four to six weeks. However, with age and poor general health, renewal is considerably slower.

The Diamond Peel microdermabrasion skin treatment allows more control over the level and area of abrasion. This approach respects the integrity of skin tissues and minimised trauma. The skin can then heal more evenly and naturally – not as a rushed response to skin injury.

The Diamond Peel treatment erases epidermal layers at varying depths in a controlled manner, minimizing skin trauma. It mechanically alters the epidermis and invigorates cell renewal to create a healthy, balanced skin surface. It is then possible to improve or eliminate many skin conditions and skin imperfections. Diamond Peel technology can easily bring you a step closer to realizing healthier, younger-looking skin because of its sensitivity – to you and your specific needs.

Recovery Time:
Diamond Peel : 1 – 24 hours

Glycolic Peel : 3 – 7 days

Laser Peel : 4 – 6 weeks

Chemical Peel : 3 – 4 weeks

The Diamond Peel can treat any of the following conditions:
• Ageing and sun damaged skin
• Acne scarring and acne
• Skin pigmentation marks
• Stretch-mark minimisation
• Hard-to-treat lip and character lines
• Enlarged pores

Cautions on Microdermabrasion

• Only trained operators are to operate the Microdermabrasion
• Make sure that the surface that is to be worked on, is cleaned
• Advise the client to use sunscreen

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

1. Am I a candidate for Microdermabrasion?

If you have or have had acne, discolourations, superficial lines and wrinkles, uneven texture or sun damaged skin – you may be a candidate for Microdermabrasion. Microdermabrasion can not be expected to remove deep scars or wrinkles, birth marks or tattoos. If you have no history of hypo/hyper-pigmentation or keloids scarring in your family you should consider microdermabrasion as an alternative to a deeper invasive peel.

2. When is Microdermabrasion usually performed?

Microdermabrasion can be performed anytime, with sessions at least 14 days part 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 this time.

3. 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 relatively painless 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 Endocosmetic is applied.

4. What should I expect after Microdermabrasion?

You can expect to feel as if you have a mild sunburn 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 moisturiser as well as a high protection sun block. 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 – 6 sessions) can be scheduled at 10 day intervals. It truly depends upon your technician.

5. Does Microdermabrasion hurt?

Microdermabrasion does not really hurt although it may sting a little around the eye area. The operator 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.

6. 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 regimem of Retin-A or a Glycolic treatments in conjunction with Microdermabrasion will increase your chances the best results possible.

7. Is there a lot of swelling after Microdermabrasion?

It is extremely rare that you may swell at all after Microdermabrasion. This mini procedure is so very non-invasive yet it really works with time.

8. 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 procedure after work or on your day off. Many clients schedule it during their lunch breaks then return with a pinkish skin. There is little if any downtime from Microdermabrasion treatments.

9. Do Not do Microdermabrasion on

You should NOT have a microdermabrasion treatment on the affected area if you have the following;
• Undiagnosed lesions
• Recent herpes outbreaks
• Warts
• Active, weeping acne (stages 3-4)
• Active Rosacea
• Auto-immune system disorders
• Some patients Hyperpigmentation post-op. Lower pressures are used on follow-up treatments
• Using Retin-A religiously or just had a chemical peel
• Recently had laser surgery