Why does skin develop blemishes?

As we get older, our skin ages and loses some of its thickness. It also becomes pale and wrinkled. Most of the ‘damage’ done to skin comes from exposure to the sun (UV light). This can result in dullness, pigmentation and redness. The other main source of damage is from Acne which can also leave scars, pigmentation, redness and uneven skin texture. Hormonal changes can also result in uneven pigmentation, black/white heads and oily skin.

What is Microdermabrasion?

There are different types of Microdermabrasion, but most commonly it is a process where tiny crystals are ‘fired’ at the surface of the skin through a special hand piece. The crystals are so tiny that they appear like a mist and are immediately vacuumed away back into the hand piece, taking the top dead layer of skin with them.

There are different intensities of Microdermabrasion. These can be achieved using different settings on a machine or different types of process. Your practitioner will advise you on the best process to achieve the results you are looking for.

How does Microdermabrasion work?

The removal of the top layer of dead skin gives the appearance of freshness and radiance to the skin and stimulates new Collagen growth – the substance which gives skin its plumpness and softness.

A course of treatment will usually include 4-6 sessions with a couple of weeks between sessions.

What can Microdermabrasion be used for?

It can be used to improve the appearance of the skin in particular the effects of sun damage, remove fine lines, reduce the appearance of Acne scars, reduce the appearance of uneven pigmentation and remove whiteheads and blackheads.

While Microdermabrasion is usually carried out on the face, it can be used on any part of the body including most commonly, the neck and upper chest and for the reduction of stretch marks.

Who is Microdermabrasion suitable for?

Subject to initial medical screening, both men and women of any age and with all skin types can benefit from the treatment.

You should NOT have treatment if you have used the anti-acne treatment Isotretinoin (brand name Roaccutane) within the last 12 months.

What happens during the treatment?

A hand piece is moved over the surface of the skin which fires the crystals at the skin’s surface at high velocity. These crystals loosen and remove dead cells from the skin’s surface and the crystals and dead skin cells are then immediately sucked back into the hand piece and discarded.

Patients will usually be able to go directly back to their daily routine following treatment which makes it an ideal treatment for lunch breaks.

How long does the treatment take?

The process will usually take about 20-30 minutes for the face. A course of treatment will usually involve 4-6 sessions to achieve the desired results.

Is it painful?

No. Microdermabrasion does not require an anaesthetic and is completely painless.

When will I notice a difference?

Most patients will begin to see an improvement after 1 or 2 treatments. The skin will appear more radiant, smoother and fresher.

How long will the effects last?

It will vary from person to person and by different skin types, but the treatment can be repeated as often as you feel necessary.

What happens pre and post-treatment?

You will need to complete a medical questionnaire to ensure there are no
reasons why you cannot receive treatment. After Microdermabrasion you will be given an after-care leaflet which tells you what to do following treatment.

One of the most important after-care factors is the use of a sunblock to protect the new skin layer.

Are there any adverse effects?

There are very few side-effects associated with Microdermabrasion as it only treats the very top surface of the skin. Patients may experience a slight redness immediately after treatment, but this will fade within a few hours.