What Is Microdermabrasion?
Procedure Cost:
Microdermabrasion
$75
Microdermabrasion gently exfoliates skin to reduce signs of aging. Treatments can give your complexion a brighter, more youthful appearance.
Microdermabrasion is commonly used on the face but can be done on the neck or other areas of your body, too. Your skin will appear smoother and healthier after one microdermabrasion treatment. A series of treatments can lead to longer-lasting effects.
Microdermabrasion should be considered part of an overall skincare plan that includes moisturizing daily, wearing sunscreen, and possibly other measures. An esthetician can provide a consultation and personalized skincare plan to help you reach your skincare goals.
The Procedure
Our master estheticians at University of Utah Health provide microdermabrasion at South Jordan Health Center. During the microdermabrasion treatment, you will lie on a table face up. Our esthetician will sit behind you at the end of the table. We will use a hand-held device called a microdermabrasion wand with a diamond dust-coated tip. Your esthetician will move the wand across your face to safely buff dead skin cells from the skin’s surface. This promotes the growth of healthy, new cells. Afterward, we will provide you with a soothing face mask and post-care skin products.
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Microdermabrasion Benefits
The skin’s dermis (second layer) contains collagen and elastin proteins, which keep your skin firm and youthful looking. Unfortunately, the aging process and exposure to the sun, dry air conditions, and pollution break down these proteins in your skin. As a result, your skin starts to sag, develop wrinkles, and develop a dull appearance.
Microdermabrasion stimulates collagen and elastin production by removing dead skin cells. As a result, it can:
- give your skin a brighter appearance;
- lessen skin discoloration;
- reduce stretch marks;
- renew your skin’s overall tone and texture;
- reduce superficial lines, wrinkles, acne scars, and stretch marks;
- reduce or eliminate enlarged pores; and
- unclog pores and reduce future acne breakouts.
For men, microdermabrasion offers all of the above benefits and can help lessen skin irritation from shaving facial hair. (Note: microdermabrasion cannot be done through a beard or mustache.)
Chemical Peel vs. Microdermabrasion
Chemical peels and microdermabrasion both exfoliate skin and offer similar benefits. However, microdermabrasion treats the outer layers of the skin (epidermis), while a chemical peel can penetrate the second layers (dermis). Chemical peels can provide a more significant facial rejuvenation. Some people alternate between chemical peels and microdermabrasion or have both treatments in one visit.
Who Should Get Microdermabrasion?
Almost everyone is a good candidate for microdermabrasion, and the procedure offers benefits for people with all skin tones and types. However, you may need to delay microdermabrasion if you have a sunburn or active acne breakout.
Best Time to Get Microdermabrasion
People can have microdermabrasion treatments all year round. Many people schedule a microdermabrasion a few days before a special event to give their complexion a brighter, more youthful appearance.
What To Expect During Your Initial Appointment
Your first microdermabrasion appointment will last about an hour. After you arrive, you will meet with an esthetician, who will provide a consultation before getting started. They will evaluate your skin and ask questions about:
- your skincare routine, including what products you use;
- any skin-related problems you are experiencing (such as frequent breakouts and dryness);
- medications you are taking that can affect the skin (such as retinol); and
- your skincare goals.
The first appointment may last about an hour. Future appointments last for about 30 minutes unless you need additional services. After this consultation, the esthetician will perform the microdermabrasion unless there is a need to delay the procedure.
Is Microdermabrasion Safe?
When performed by a master esthetician, microdermabrasion is safe. Master estheticians are skincare professionals. Our master estheticians have completed 1,200 hours of advanced training in various aesthetic services and safety measures, including equipment sanitation.
Microdermabrasion Results
You will notice that your skin feels and looks better the day of the microdermabrasion or perhaps by the next day. The effects may last for several weeks or longer.
After about three microdermabrasion treatments, you will notice that fine lines and other signs of aging start to soften. This indicates that your body is producing more collagen and elastin as a result of the microdermabrasion.
How Often Should You Get Microdermabrasion?
How often you have a microdermabrasion treatment is up to you. For many people, once a month or once every two weeks feels right.
What To Do After Microdermabrasion
You will need to take extra care of your skin for a few days after microdermabrasion. Your skin may be extra sensitive, dry, flaky, and susceptible to sun damage.
For the next three to five days, take these steps to minimize side effects:
- Avoid exfoliating your skin.
- Use a gentle soap and moisturizer.
- Use sunscreen.
If you plan to wear make-up on the day of your microdermabrasion, make sure to use a mineral-based product.
Microdermabrasion Side Effects
You may experience minor side effects, such as:
- mild tenderness,
- swelling,
- and redness.
These generally go away within a few hours after treatment.
Does Microdermabrasion Hurt?
Microdermabrasion is not painful. People describe it as feeling like their face is being tickled or gently rubbed with a nail file. Most people find that having microdermabrasion is a relaxing experience. You can return to your normal activities immediately after microdermabrasion.
Does Microdermabrasion Cause Acne?
Microdermabrasion removes impurities from deep within your pores. This releases bacteria from your pores, which may lead to an acne breakout. Your esthetician will talk to you about how to minimize potential acne breakouts and other side effects.
Making An Appointment With Our Estheticians
At U of U Health, our estheticians perform microdermabrasions, chemical peels, and many other skincare services. We also offer free skincare consults and can recommend services and products to help your skin look and feel good.
To schedule an appointment, call 801-213-4500, submit a request through your MyChart account, or request an appointment online.
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