Microdermabrasion: A Guide


Written by Virginia Surgical Arts on .
Microdermabrasion: A Guide

Have you been thinking about Microdermabrasion (MDB)?

You’ve heard and read about it, but is it right for you?  That depends on your skin care concerns and goals.  It’s true that MDB can do some amazing things for your skin. However much of the consumer information is quite misleading.  While still being very helpful, you should know the limitations of MDB before choosing this treatment.

MDB is a treatment that revitalizes your skin, cleanses pores and promotes new skin growth all resulting in improved skin texture and appearance.  Micro-crystals are sprayed across the skin, shedding dead skin cells all while removing the debris. With repeated treatments skin becomes healthier, brighter, and more even toned.

What is Microdermabrasion?

Microdermabrasion utilizes two cosmetic techniques to simultaneously target the outermost layer of your skin, known as the epidermis. The abrasive qualities of aluminum oxide crystals and a mild, vacuum-like suction work together to gently abrade (scrape) the skin’s surface.  As the hand piece passes over the skin, dead skin cells and surface debris are gently removed. With the old, dry, and often damaged skin removed, new, healthy skin and younger cells are revealed.

In addition, Microdermabrasion targets:

  • Acne: Treats and reduces the occurrence
  • Scarring: Fades and lessens the appearance caused by acne and other blemishes
  • Rosacea: Diminishes the appearance and associated redness
  • Photoaging: Softens fine lines and wrinkles

Microdermabrasion helps to smooth thick, uneven, and often rough skin. Additionally, by cleansing the skin of dirt, oil, and free radicals, Microdermabrasion brightens the often-dulling effects of daily and unpreventable environmental damage.  It is also believed that Microdermabrasion stimulates the production of new skin cells, collagen, and elastin—meaning you will see the results long after your treatment.

Myths and Misconceptions About Microdermabrasion

Myth: MDB can remove stretch marks.

Reality: First, there has been no proven treatment to completely remove stretch marks; MDB is not effective to improve this condition due to the depth within the skin that stretch marks exist.  The only FDA approved and effective treatment is with a Palomar fractional laser which we do offer.

Myth: MDB is effective on acne scarring.

Reality: Depending on the severity of the scars, MDB can be helpful to improve mild acne scaring with the use of fractional laser therapy or combined with a series of peels but is not so effective by itself.

Myth: MDB can erase age spots and sun spots.

Reality: MDB may have some improvements on faint, superficial spots with multiple treatments.  For darker pigmentations, a combination of chemical peels with Intense Pulsed Light treatments is recommended.

Myth: MDB is painful and requires a lot of downtime.

Reality: MDB is generally non-invasive which can be adjusted to your skin’s tolerances.  A slight pink appearance following a treatment usually lasts only a few hours. You can return to work or other commitments immediately following your treatment.

Myth: MDB is no more effective than a scrub.

Reality: You will see greater results with medical grade MDB than an at home scrub.  You can expect to leave with brighter, smoother skin! Be careful with over the counter “scrubs” because exfoliating grains can be uneven and jagged which causes tearing of the skin!

Myth: MDB can remove wrinkles.

Reality: MDB can help only soften fine lines over time but deeper lines and wrinkles require Botox, Fillers or the Fractional Laser for resurfacing.

Is Microdermabrasion right for you?  If you are looking to rejuvenate dull, lackluster skin, then yes!  With regular treatments (every 4-6 weeks) and a good home skincare regimen, you will be on your way to healthier, younger looking skin!  To schedule a complimentary consultation to discuss your skincare goals and treatment options, give us a call at 430-7690!.

How Microdermabrasion Works

At Virginia Surgical Arts, we strive to create a peaceful and enjoyable environment—providing you a full spectrum treatment from start to finish. After all, this is your chance to relax and enjoy yourself. Before your treatment begins, Dr. Vendetti will first apply a toner. Removing excess oils from the skin, allows for better application and penetration of your treatment. After your Microdermabrasion treatment is complete. Dr. Vendetti will supply you with cool compresses before applying a calming mask. As the mask sets, Dr. Vendetti performs a soothing scalp massage. Lastly, a replenishing cream and sun block are applied.

Microdermabrasion at Virginia Surgical Arts

When properly administered, Microdermabrasion is painless, quick to perform, and has little associated downtime. Treatments take as little as 45 minutes. For optimal results, Dr. Vendetti recommends a series of five treatments spread one month apart. As each individual’s skin is different, these factors can vary.

Many patients like the gentler qualities of Microdermabrasion—providing similar benefits to more invasive procedures like laser treatments and chemical peels. Virtually painless, a few patients do report mild redness and a slight tingling sensation following their treatment.

This winter, we encourage you to combat your winter skin woes with Microdermabrasion. To help aid you in your decision, Dr. Vendetti offers a free consultation—giving you a chance to ask any questions and express any concerns. Our highly qualified and skin-centric staff look forward to working with you.

Author: Brooke Craze, Master Esthetician and Virginia Surgical Arts, LLC

Written By Virginia Surgical Arts

Our oral and cosmetic surgery facility in Virginia Beach serves all of Hampton Roads and offers oral/facial reconstruction, bone grafting, and facial and body rejuvenation. We are fully licensed and accredited. When you are ready to begin truly appreciating and evoking the real you, Virginia Surgical Arts is here–ready to work with you.