Dermabrasion

It is due to the incessant demand for that perfect skin that many people are opting for different types of skin treatments that can definitely help improve the tone and condition of the epidermal layer. One of the popular types of skin treatment is Dermabrasion. This process is also referred to by cosmetic surgeons as "power peel" and can be easily done within a dermatologist's or cosmetic surgeon's clinic.

Another similar process, the Microdermabrasion, works under the same principle but has lesser risks because it's actually not a surgical procedure at all, unlike the traditional Dermabrasion.

How it is done
Dermabrasion, as a skin treatment process, works by exposing the skin to a certain amount of small crystal beads that are safe enough to be sand-blasted into the skin or a rough surface gentle enough to exfoliate the epidermal layer. Before the actual process starts, the skin to be treated is thoroughly disinfected with a cleaning agent. After the cleansing process, the skin's epidermal layer is then applied with a freezing agent.

For Microdermabrasion, micro-beads or crystals are then softly "blasted" into the skin to slowly remove the current skin layer -- usually filled with acne scars, pimples, fine lines, and other distortion on the epidermal layer -- and is naturally replaced with a fresh and younger looking skin. As for the traditional Dermabrasion, the device used in exfoliating the skin with a special brush is a rotating apparatus that can be easily maneuvered to cover every skin area that is to be treated. Once the "distorted" layer is removed, the patient is given lots of time to recover and grow a new skin layer since the actual process only takes a day or less.

Purpose
Since this process is similar to an exfoliating treatment, dead cells are removed so as to be replaced with a new and fresh layer. Aside from its exfoliating properties, Dermabrasion can also be utilized to peel-off minor skin distortions, which could range from minor pimple scars, unwanted tattoos, scars caused by an illness or an accident, wrinkles, lines, and sun spots.

Those who are qualified for this treatment
This skin treatment is perfect for those who wish to remove any unwanted minor skin lesions since this process is not suitable for those with deep keloid and pimple scars. Since Dermabrasion is a surgical procedure, this process is only suitable for those who really need to have their skin surgically exfoliated.

Preparation
A consultation is done between the cosmetic surgeon and the patient to fully assess if the patient is qualified to undergo Dermabrasion. Along with the medical history, risks, and possible expectations about the outcome, the kind of anesthesia or pain-reducing drug to be applied is also discussed.

Results and side effects
The outcome of a dermabrasive treatment process is usually a raw, pink skin. The patient will also feel a "sunburned" sensation all over the treated area right after the treatment that can last for a couple of days. However, the skin heals easily so any uncomfortable or painful after-effects will subside after a couple of days. The pinkish color can stay on for weeks so moisturizers and lotions with SPF or sunblocks are highly-recommended after undergoing Dermabrasion. Patients are also advised to stay away from direct sunlight and avoid strong kinds of make-up since these agents can cause unnecessary irritation.

Possible side effects for Dermabrasion/ Microdermabrasion are infection, change in skin color, and the possibility that the micro-beads could get into the eyes and cause irritation. After the treatment, patients are advised to temporarily stay away from cigarette smoke, alcohol, and certain pain relievers because of possible serious side effects.

Since the actual healing process can take two weeks, patients can go back to their everyday activities in less than a month after undergoing Dermabrasion.