Frequently Asked Questions about Microdermabrasion
This article answers the following questions. What
is microdermabrasion? Why use a home microdermabrasion system? Will
home microdermabrasion increase my skin's sensitivity to the sun?
Will home microdermabrasion cause redness? What if my skin seems
to "flake" after microdermabrasion? Can I use home microdermabrasion
on other areas of the body? How do I use a home microdermabrasion
system? What results can I expect? Can I still use Retin-AŽ, RenovaŽ
and alpha hydroxy acids? How much pressure should I use? My skin
is burning or tingling - is this OK?
Q: What is microdermabrasion?
A: Sometimes called a "Parisian
Peel" or "Lunchtime Peel," microdermabrasion is the
latest, most effective non-surgical comprehensive approach to skin
care in the treatment of fine lines, wrinkles, acne scars, superficial
pigmentation and sun-damaged skin. It is considered safe on all
skin types and colors. However, it is usually done at spas and doctor's
offices, where it can be very costly, requiring 10-12 sessions for
maximum results at prices ranging from $90 to $150 per session.
First developed in Italy, it has been used successfully for the
past eight years around the world for thousands of women. There
is now a home microdermabrasion system with the same aluminum oxide
crystals used by expensive systems.
Q: Why use a home microdermabrasion system?
A: It's easy, convenient and provides
visible results for a fraction of the cost of a professional treatment
at a doctor's office or spa. Home microdermabrasion uses the same
aluminum oxide crystals used in expensive treatments, but you can
do it at home during your leisure time - no time-consuming travel
or expensive appointments are necessary. And unlike skin-polishing
machines and creams that don't really work, you'll see visible results
with home microdermabrasion treatments the very first time, comparable
with the results from professional treatments!
Q: Will home microdermabrasion increase
my skin's sensitivity to the sun?
A: Immediately after exfoliation, your new skin
will be slightly sensitive. Your skin may feel a little hot and
appear a little pink for the first day. You should be perfectly
fine that night. If you use a little too much pressure, treatments
may leave you pink and sensitive a bit longer, but there's nothing
to worry about - you can never actually hurt yourself using home
microdermabrasion. If that happens, just use less pressure and time
for your next treatment. I highly recommend using a sunscreen for
several days after any real microdermabrasion treatment. This sensitivity
is temporary. There are no harsh or harmful chemicals in home microdermabrasion
to cause other kinds of sensitivity. In fact, it is hypoallergenic!
Q: Will home microdermabrasion cause redness?
A: After use, your skin will take
on a fresh new "glow" and there will be some redness present
(similar to a slight sunburn). However, this will dissipate in a
few hours. Makeup can be applied afterwards and there is no downtime.
It's advisable to use additional products to soothe, hydrate and
protect your skin after home microdermabrasion treatments.
Q: What if my skin seems to "flake"
after microdermabrasion?
A: This is normal after a real microdermabrasion
treatment, at a doctor or at home. The "flaking" is actually
superficial peeling of the old skin. Your skin is now rejuvenating,
with new, younger-looking skin growing and replacing the dead skin.
The "flaking" will dissipate within a day or so.
Q: Can I use home microdermabrasion on
other areas of the body?
A: Definitely! Home microdermabrasion
works great on rough elbows, feet and even discoloration and age
spots on the hands! In addition, home microdermabrasion may be used
on stretch marks to help reduce their appearance.
Q: How do I use a home microdermabrasion
system?
A: Give yourself a home microdermabrasion
treatment about once every two weeks to gently buff the skin. Use
the sponge with light to moderate pressure for one to three minutes
-- do not over use! It's that simple! Thereafter, a monthly maintenance
regime is recommended to maintain soft, fresh looking skin. You
will love how young your skin appears.
Q: What results can I expect?
A: You will notice a visible improvement
in your skin's appearance even after the first treatment, though
the best results come after a series of six treatments. Acne scars
and large pores will look greatly reduced. Age spots, discoloration,
and fine lines will be less noticeable. Of course, deeply pitted
or scarred areas and darker pigmented areas may require several
treatments, and microdermabrasion is not a "miracle cure"
for severely damaged skin. Microdermabrasion can not be expected
to remove tattoos.
Q: Can I still use Retin-A®, Renova®
and alpha hydroxy acids?
A: Yes. However, home microdermabrasion
eliminates the need for these products -- why use harsh chemicals
on you skin when you can use safe, effective home microdermabrasion
instead!
Q: How much pressure should I use?
A: Never use heavy pressure. Use
gentle, circular motions over the entire face. If you have sensitive
skin, test home microdermabrasion on the underside of your forearm
for a minute first. If you have excessive redness and irritation,
use lighter pressure. As your skin adjusts you may be able to gradually
increase the pressure and time, up to three minutes, or five minutes
for tougher skin.
Q: My skin is burning or tingling - is
this OK?
A: Yes. As with any true microdermabrasion
treatment, you may experience redness, tingling or burning sensations
similar to a mild sunburn. This means your microdermabrasion treatment
is working! This will go away in a few hours. Apply a soothing gel
as often as necessary. With more sensitive skin, it can take a little
longer. If your skin is extremely sensitive, you can use a hydrating
serum before your home microdermabrasion treatment to reduce irritation.
Kathleen Williams is the developer of the Dermanesse
Professional Home Microdermabrasion System, an alternative to professional
treatments. She is an expert on skin problems.
[http://www.dermanesse.com/Dermanesse/Articles/FAQs/index.cfm].
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