Microdermabrasion is a popular treatment for blackheads and a variety of other skin issues, including fine lines and wrinkles, uneven skin tone and texture, big pores, and more. This noninvasive procedure uses tiny crystals to remove superficial skin cells to reveal younger-looking skin. It's been shown to be very effective for treating acne scars and for reducing the appearance of aging signs such as sun damage and loose skin.
Blackheads are small clogged pores that appear on the face as dark spots. They can be caused by excess oil that blocks the opening of the pore, causing irritation and inflammation. The oil may come from inside the pore or elsewhere on the body. Excessive washing with soap can irritate skin even more and make blackheads worse. Using a product with salicylic acid can help clear up blackheads quickly because it gets rid of bacteria and kills surface cells. As well, avoiding products with alpha hydroxy acids (AHA's) will help prevent future breakouts due to their drying effects.
In addition to clearing up blackheads, using microdermabrasion to treat other skin problems can result in improved skin overall. It has been used successfully to treat age spots, sun damage, and other visible signs of photoaging; as well as shallow cuts, bruises, and wounds that haven't healed properly.
Dermatologists also employ microdermabrasion to enhance the effectiveness of anti-aging and skin-whitening treatments. Microdermabrasion facilitates the penetration of these compounds into the skin. It also removes dead cells that can block out UV rays from reaching the skin's surface. These are just some of many reasons why dermatologists encourage their patients to consider this procedure for cosmetic improvement.
Microdermabrasion is a noninvasive treatment that uses fine crystals to gently remove the top layer of skin, which improves the appearance of aging skin by revealing new skin tissue. This treatment can be used alone or in combination with other aesthetic procedures such as laser therapy, skin grafts, and chemical peels. It is usually performed as a stand-alone treatment for facial skin or body skin before receiving any other form of aesthetic enhancement.
This procedure should not be done if you are pregnant because the crystals can travel through the body and cause fetal damage. You may want to wait until after pregnancy to have this treatment, unless your doctor recommends an earlier time frame. There is no known risk factor for cancer following microdermabrasion. However, it is important to discuss any concerns you have with your dermatologist prior to undergoing this treatment.
Microdermabrasion employs the use of microscopic exfoliating crystals sprayed on the skin. It is most effective for issues such as dull skin, brown patches, and age spots. Microdermabrasion cannot reverse these issues, but it can make them less visible.
Dark spots are caused by an excess of melanin in the skin. Melanin is a natural pigment that gives skin its color, but too much can lead to darker spots. Aging, sun exposure, and genetics are all factors in determining how much melanin you will have. There are two types of dark spots: hyper-pigmented spots and hypo-pigmented spots. Hyper-pigmented spots are areas of the skin that are naturally dark colored, such as those found on the face or chest. These spots are often due to sun exposure or aging. Hypo-pigmented spots are areas of the skin that are very pale colored, such as those found on the hands or feet. These spots are usually due to genetics or an illness. People with hypopigmentation tend to look older than they actually are because these spots do not have enough melanin to mask other signs of aging.
There are several treatments available for dark spots, including laser therapy, chemical peels, and microdermabrasion.
Over-the-counter retinoids and prescription-strength retinoids are the most effective topical treatments for blackheads (such as Retin-A). "These will balance the flow of skin cells and exfoliate the top layer, which will aid in the removal of blackheads," explains Dr. Bernstein. You may also want to use a gentle scrub once a week to further remove buildup around your nose.
Dr. Bernstein recommends first trying over-the-counter products such as L'Oreal's Renova or SkinCeuticals' Blackhead Removal Cream before turning to prescriptions from your dermatologist. "Most medications used by dermatologists are only available through a doctor, so if you're looking to treat blackheads with medications, make an appointment with a board-certified dermatologist."
Dermatologists typically prescribe retinoids for the treatment of acne and other skin conditions. They work by reducing inflammation and promoting cell turnover. "Retinoids are also known for their ability to clear up scars and improve the appearance of aging skin," says Dr. Bernstein. "They have been shown to increase the production of collagen and elastin, which helps reduce the visible signs of aging throughout the body."
People often ask him about tretinoins (a type of retinoid), which are commonly prescribed for acne.
Microdermabrasion is an excellent anti-aging therapy for reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, lightening age spots and hyperpigmentation, and increasing collagen formation. After each treatment, you will notice that your skin is smoother and brighter. You may also see a reduction in acne and other skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis.
The process works by removing small layers of skin to reveal new, healthy skin below. This technique uses a machine called a microdermabrator to crush frozen crystals into the skin's surface to remove dead cells and pigment. The crushed ice crystals help the skin heal faster after each treatment.
Skin care professionals often recommend microdermabrasion as an alternative to laser treatments for people who do not want to undergo surgery or have skin that is too dark for lasers. It has also become popular as an addition to other skin care regimens for enhancing the effects of other therapies such as phototherapy (for treating skin diseases such as psoriasis) and chemical peels.
In general, people feel more youthful after one or two microdermabrations. However, if you stop going to the spa after your first visit, your skin will eventually begin to show its age again. It is best to commit to a monthly regimen of microdermabrasion to maintain your results.