Microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion is a procedure that has been employed in Europe since 1986 and in North America since the late 90’s. As the name implies, the process involves abrasion of the skin. The difference between microdermabrasion and dermabrasion, is depth. Dermabrasion is a surgical procedure done under general anesthetic, involving considerable downtime, and months of recovery. Microdermabrasion is a “no downtime” procedure. Patients often return to work afterwards. Certain patients may desire a moderate strength peel for surface irregularities, and this is an option because the technology used at Nirvana is a medical tool and capable of abrading more vigorously. The moderate peel will be performed only as agreed specifically the by patient and physician. The technique, whether standard, or moderate, is considered superficial because there remains a protective barrier on the skin surface. Side effects are negligible in most, and in the moderate peels there may be some superficial scabbing the following day. The individual does not need to miss work.

Crystals of a hard salt molecule are blown on the skin, and then vacuumed up for disposal. The clean crystals of highly purified salt are passed over the skin in a one-way system that does not permit exposure to used crystal. The high-pressure spray of these abrasive crystals on the skin functions to abrade and level the surface. The top layer of dead cells is compacted and smoothed, pitted scars are diminished or eliminated, bumps and contour irregularities are leveled, pores are diminished, and pore patency and oxygenation is improved. Fine lines are abraded and smoothed from the surface. As a result of the intense resurfacing action there will be some flaking in most individuals during the week after treatment.

Skin changes will take place in the deeper layers as well. Skin is stimulated, as may be evidenced by the flush that will occur the evening of your treatment. This is a desirable side effect as aging skin becomes apathetic about replication and various cell functions, including synthesis of collagen. Collagen is coated with a variety of molecules that absorb water. When water is absorbed onto this complex, there is expansion of tissue, like a child’s toy that grows in water. Enhancing synthesis of collagen within the skin results in more natural rejuvenation than injection of collagen. It is more evenly distributed throughout the skin without clumping. The net effect of stimulation then, is softening of fine lines, greater glow, fading of brown skin spots. Clinical trials have, in fact, demonstrated these changes, over the course of 6 treatments. Most patients noticed immediate improvement, but some of the changes evolve over months and several treatments, e.g. fine lines, smaller pores, brown spots).

Of course, expectations need to be realistic. This is not a face-lift! But skin will look and feel healthier.

All of these changes translate visibly to much smoother skin, diminished pitting, diminished pore size, reduced blackheads and whiteheads, improved acne, softening of fine lines, brighter more glowing complexion, more uniform skin color, reduction or removal of brown discoloration, and reduction of acne and other types of scarring.

All patients consult with the medical director, an M.D., prior to initiating the program, at no additional charge. Usually topical anti-aging products, some prescription strength, are provided to the patient. Patients use these products while proceeding through the course of treatments. Digital photos are obtained before and after for the purposes of monitoring progress and are available to the patient and technical staff. In the vast majority of cases, the patient knows without viewing the photos that there has been considerable improvement. Often friends and family will notice a favorable change in appearance as indicated by an increase in the number of compliments from others who are not even aware of the program. Overall patient satisfaction with microdermabrasion is high.

Microdermabrasion is suitable for all skin types, and any age beyond puberty. There is a slightly increased chance for the dark skinned individual to transiently hyperpigment, but this is indeed rare with standard microdermabrasion treatments.

Those that may benefit from by microdermabrasion have:
Aging skin, blotchy or mottled brown discoloration, acne or acne scarring, enlarged pores, pitted scars, bumpy skin, dull complexion, sun damaged thin skin, fine lines.

The procedure is known as the “Lunchtime Peel” because it is often done on a break with full expectation of returning to work. Side effects are minimal, especially immediately afterward. They include: flushing the evening of the treatment, (indicative of stimulation of the dermis), and flakiness for a few days after the treatment, (indicative of a good exfoliative event). If there is increased compression, there might be some superficial scabbing, and red blotchiness for a day or two after. The more aggressive treatment is performed only if indicated by the skin signs, and with patient consent.

The procedure is not by most considered to be painful, except on occasion in the setting of extra compression. Most would liken the sensation to being licked by a cat’s tongue! Most regard the treatment as highly refreshing and relaxing, and it is performed esthetically. Make-up may be applied if necessary immediately after.

The treatment is performed by a qualified esthetician with extra training in medical esthetics. She does a great number of these procedures and is therefore highly proficient by background and experience. She continues to upgrade her skills and her knowledge base by conferences, reading material, and seminars.

For more information go to www.mdpeel.com.

Click here to view before and after photos

Click here to read what our patients have to say about microdermabrasion