Microdermabrasion is a non-chemical, non-invasive exfoliating treatment that smoothes skin, unclogs pores and uncovers a more radiant glow. One treatment can be an efficient way to remove old skin cells and enhance the luminance of your skin. With regular treatments, microdermabrasion can help you maintain a bright and clear appearance.
AF Aesthetics serves the greater Sydney area performing a variety of aesthetic treatments for the skin and body. Enquire here to learn more about how microdermabrasion can work for you.
What Is Microdermabrasion?
Microdermabrasion combines mechanical exfoliation with suction to remove dead and damaged skin cells and impurities. Taking a closer look at the word, ‘micro’ means small, ‘derm’ refers to the skin and ‘abrasion’ is the process of scraping away. A microdermabrasion treatment literally scrapes away the outermost layer of skin to reveal the clear, healthy skin underneath.
Compared to aggressive dermabrasion procedures, microdermabrasion is gentler, more comfortable and suitable for a broader range of skin types.
Compared to hydradermabrasion, which uses a flow of water to dislodge impurities and damaged skin cells, microdermabrasion is more intense and therefore may not suit sensitive skin.
How Does Microdermabrasion Work?
The microdermabrasion procedure consists of running a handpiece over the targeted areas of your face to exfoliate the skin. Simultaneously, a gentle vacuum sucks up the old skin cells and debris that are loosened by the exfoliation process.
There are two types of microdermabrasion. The original microdermabrasion devices blast the surface of the skin with a pressurised jet of superfine crystals. As the crystals come into contact with the skin, they scrape off the topmost layer of cells, and then they are sucked back into the machine.
Newer microdermabrasion devices do not use crystals. Instead, they utilise diamond-tipped handpieces. The tip of the instrument abrades the top layer of skin as a vacuum suctions away the dead skin cells.
What Can Be Treated With Microdermabrasion?
Microdermabrasion can reduce the appearance of various skin concerns, including:
- Dry skin
- Oily skin
- Fine lines
- Age spots / sun spots
- Enlarged or clogged pores
- Acne scars and other scarring
- Rough texture
- Dullness
Who Are Sydney Microdermabrasion Treatments For?
Microdermabrasion is suitable for most skin types, including dark skin and ageing skin. The speed of the treatment, the pressure applied by the provider and the type of tip used can be adjusted to accommodate a variety of skin needs. Microdermabrasion can be an excellent alternative to chemical peels for those seeking exfoliation without acids.
Although microdermabrasion is relatively gentle, it is not recommended for everyone. This procedure is not suitable for people with rosacea, moderate to severe acne, active cold sores and any kind of wound or skin irritation.
How Are Microdermabrasion Treatments Performed?
Microdermabrasion procedures typically last 30 to 60 minutes.
After cleansing and sterilising your skin, your provider will apply the microdermabrasion handpiece, moving it methodically around your face and neck until the entire area has been treated.
Microdermabrasion is usually done without any kind of anaesthesia. You may feel mild pressure and a slight stinging or rough sensation as the device exfoliates your skin. Many patients liken the sensation to being licked by the coarse tongue of a cat.
What Is the Expected Recovery After Microdermabrasion?
Recovery time from a microdermabrasion treatment is minimal. You may experience some pinkness or redness in the treated area, as well as some tenderness. Despite this, microdermabrasion does not require downtime, and you will be allowed to return to your usual activities immediately after your appointment.
Nourish your skin with a good daily moisturiser to keep it from getting dry and flaky. Daily use of sunscreen is also encouraged, as microdermabrasion can make your skin more sensitive to the sun in the days after treatment. Avoid using harsh skincare ingredients, such as retinoids and acids, while your skin is sensitive.
When Will I See Results From My Microdermabrasion Treatment?
Microdermabrasion results are both instant and cumulative. Once any redness or tenderness has faded, you will notice smoother and brighter skin with a healthy glow. A single treatment can be used to refresh your skin before a special event.
If you are hoping to achieve more significant improvements in your skin, it’s best to schedule a series of treatments. Results intensify with each session, reducing signs of ageing and sun damage, and leading to smoother, firmer skin over time.
How Many Microdermabrasion Treatments Will I Need?
We recommend most clients start with a series of three to four microdermabrasion treatments. Once this initial series is complete, you can maintain your results with sessions every four to six weeks.
During your consultation, your provider will discuss how many treatments are indicated given your skin type and condition. They can also provide you with recommendations for your skincare routine to enhance and extend the duration of your results.
Request a Consultation at AF Aesthetics Today
At AF Aesthetics, we offer a full spectrum of treatments designed to treat nearly any aesthetic skin concern. From combating signs of ageing to addressing conditions like acne and acne scarring, we help you achieve noticeable results with minimal downtime. Our treatment plans are customised for you, ensuring you have the proper procedures and the correct number of sessions.
Enquire today to speak with our team about microdermabrasion.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTION
Are microdermabrasion tools safe?
While all procedures have risks, the safety profile is generally improved by seeing a properly trained provider who is using professional microdermabrasion tools. If the condition of your skin is a contraindication to treatment, we will recommend an alternative procedure. Avoid at-home microdermabrasion kits as they may damage your skin.
Which is better, microdermabrasion or microneedling?
If you’re looking to quickly revitalise your skin before a special occasion, microdermabrasion may be the more better option. If you would like more significant results, including collagen regeneration, and can wait longer to see improvements, microneedling may be more appropriate.
Which is better, microdermabrasion or laser treatment?
Although both can resurface the skin, microdermabrasion and laser are very different modalities. Laser treatments typically provide more significant and longer-lasting results with fewer treatments. However, they are not suitable for all skin types. Microdermabrasion requires more treatments to achieve results, but because it is a gentler procedure, it is appropriate for a wider range of patients.