Microdermabrasion is a new skin-care technique which has come from Hollywood to the mainstream in the UK. It is often cited as an ‘immediate facelift’ and is an effective alternative to more costly and invasive procedures. Interestingly it is proving to be a very popular procedure for men. It provides immediate and visible results for ageing skin, lines and wrinkles, open pores, blackheads, pigmentation, blemish scars, acne scars, and stretch marks.
What is microdermabrasion?
Microdermabrasion is a general term for the application of tiny rough grains to buff away the surface layer of skin – the stratum corneum. Many different products and treatments use this method, including medical procedures, salon treatments and creams and scrubs that you can use yourselves at home. It’s usually done to the face, chest, neck, arms or hands.
With microdermabrasion you are buffing away or breaking up parts of the epidermis. Your body interprets that as a mild injury and rushes to replace the lost skin cells with new and healthy ones. So in the first hour after a treatment, you may experience mild swelling and redness. Depending on your skin, these side effects can last anywhere from an hour to two days.
Benefits of microdermabrasion
There are several benefits to microdermabrasion treatments. The skin’s surface is improved and as the skin repairs itself, newer skin cells that look and feel smoother appear. Some of the skin’s visible imperfections, like sun damage, blemishes and fine lines, are also removed.
Without the stratum corneum acting as a barrier, medicinal creams and lotions are more effective because more their active ingredients and moisture can find their way down to the lower layers of skin more easily.
Things to consider with microdermabrasion
As microdermabrasion temporarily removes some moisture from the skin, it should always be followed by the application of good quality serums and moisturising cream.
The outer layer of skin acts as a vital protective barrier. It keeps out pollution, conserves moisture, acts as our skin’s own natural sunscreen and keeps acne bacteria at bay, so be extra careful in the days after a treatment to wear suncream or to protect your skin from the elements with a hat.
Don’t overdo microdermabrasion. It is fine to have this treatment once a month, but not advised to have it more often than that. You could interfere with the skins protective barrier and dry out your skin.
To find more tips on how to keep your skin youthful and firm, click here for my free report.
Lifestyle by Design 