Microdermabrasion, a relatively new method of skin resurfacing, has become a common ‘lunch-time’ treatment among movie stars and housewives alike. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons effectively illustrates the phenomenon of microdermabrasion in the following definition: Microdermabrasion is a skin-freshening technique that helps repair facial skin that takes a beating from the sun and the effects of aging. The plastic surgeon uses a device like a fine sandblaster to spray tiny crystals across the face, mixing gentle abrasion with suction to remove the dead, outer layer of skin. As with other skin rejuvenation techniques, more than one treatment may be needed to reduce or remove fine wrinkles and unwanted pigmentation.

Microdermabrasion is successful in the treatment of many different skin maladies including mild scarring, uneven pigmentation, age spots, acne, black heads, stretch marks, and fine wrinkles. The procedure can be performed on anyone regardless of their skin type, causes little or no pain, and requires no down time. Furthermore, although microdermabrasion is most commonly performed on the face and neck, any part of the body can be treated, so if you have stretch marks on your belly or acne on your back, microdermabrasion can help.

Of course, microdermabrasion has its limits. It is a mild treatment, and the results are not near as substantial as one might find in more extreme procedures. Surgery, dermabrasion, and intensive laser treatments, although significantly more expensive and painful, are still more effective.

Microdermabrasion works by removing the topmost layers of damaged skin. Because the procedure provides deep exfoliation and skin resurfacing, the result is smoother, brighter, clearer, younger looking skin. The procedure itself is quick and easy. The practitioner places goggles over your eyes and cleans the skin. It is at this point that the practitioner ‘sandblasts’ the skin with the tiny crystals. This ‘sandblasting’ rarely hurts and only lasts for about half an hour. After this, the practitioner will cleanse the skin again at which point you can go about your day. Repeat sessions (approximately 4 to 8 treatments) are necessary to achieve optimal results.

If you’re looking for an easy, relatively inexpensive way to improve your skin, microdermabrasion is not a bad alternative. Of course, only your dermatologist or microdermabrasion practitioner can know if the procedure is right for you, so make sure to contact a professional for more information.