DERMABRASION

Dermabrasion is a non-invasive dermatologic procedure that utilizes an instrument that targets the superficial layer of the skin to remove them faster by the process of exfoliation. This procedure is termed as “lunch break” exfoliation since it is not a lengthy procedure and takes only several minutes for it to complete.

Dermabrasion has found its importance in the removal of crow’s feet, superficial lines and wrinkles, skin damage brought about by sun exposure, residual marks among pimple prone skin and perfecting uneven skin.

Some beauty products in the form of toner and whitening creams promise the same results as the dermabrasion procedure offers but it takes a lot of patience and time applying them only to get sub minimal results as compared to undergoing dermabrasion itself.

TYPES

There are two kinds of dermabrasion which have a very minimal difference in the procedure, and the results are the same, and the length of the process is also the same.

  • Crystal microdermabrasion- In this procedure, minute crystals of aluminium oxide, magnesium oxide, sodium chloride and sodium oxide are sent into the surface of the skin by the machine that functions like a scrubs which rotates on the surface of the skin gently exfoliating them and the layer of the skin which is removed is suctioned back into the tube and discarded into a separate container within the machine.
  • Diamond microdermabrasion- Utilizes a probe with a crystal on the tip which is then run through the skin and makes minute incisions on the skin (abrasions) and the exfoliated skin is then suctioned out. This is quickly gaining popularity among beauty enthusiasts because this does not leave any residues on the skin, unlike the crystal microdermabrasion.

SYMPTOMS

Dermabrasion is indicated in any of the following conditions, most notably on problematic areas of the body that is resistant to over the counter creams.

  • Pimple scars
  • Uneven skin tone brought about by sun exposure
  • Premature age lines
  • Skin discoloration or new growth over the skin that tends to become cancerous
  • Presence of reddish irregular patches and thickening of skin overlying the nasal area
  • Hypertrophic scars from surgical incisions
  • Ultraviolet skin damage
  • Scars left by tattoo removal

DIAGNOSIS

The dermatologist examines your skin upon the first clinic visit, and gets to determine the extent of damage and recommend the ideal treatment for you.

TREATMENT

After the procedure of dermabrasion, the dermatologist may prescribe you soothing creams to prevent you from scratching the surface of the skin that has undergone the process.

Since the layer of the skin is subjected to abrasions, there are open pores which make you susceptible to both bacterial and viral infection. You may be prescribed with either oral and topical antibiotics or both. An open wound or orifice can also be a nidus for tetanus infection, so it is best to get tetanus shot two weeks before undergoing the procedure.

Analgesics may also be prescribed since some individuals have low pain thresholds and complain of the stinging sensation felt after the procedure.

Related Articles

TETRALOGY OF FALLOT

Overview and FactsTypes and SymptomsDiagnosis & MedicationsOverview and Facts Tetralogy of Fallot is a congenital heart defect that affects the [...]

TRICHINOSIS

Overview and FactsTypes and SymptomsDiagnosis & MedicationsOverview and Facts Trichinosis, also known as trichinellosis, is a parasitic infection caused by [...]

TRIGEMINAL NEURALGIA

Overview and FactsTypes and SymptomsDiagnosis & MedicationsOverview and Facts Trigeminal neuralgia is a neurological condition characterized by severe facial pain. [...]