Microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion is a mechanical method of exfoliation and the benefits generated are caused from the abrasive action on the skin. This is done with either a diamond tip/pad combined with vacuum pressure or with the original method, of using crystal particles moved across the skin. The crystal method is more aggressive than the recent arrival of the diamond microdermabrasion technology and it also has the added complication of crystal overspray and contamination in certain situations. For this reason, Skin Rehab™ will use the diamond method to ensure consistency of treatment parameters, hygiene and maintaining infection control. 

Microdermabrasion can be used to reach various depths of penetration on the skin and this is determined by the clinician’s Scope of Practice and the skin condition being treated. Similar to professional peels, non-medical practitioners can work within the light to superficial depths of invasion and the majority of the skin concerns and conditions can be treated at these depths very successfully and safely (McManus, 2016).

What are the benefits of microdermabrasion?

Medical grade microdermabrasion can remove the stratum corneum, lower epidermis and breach the papillary dermis if intended. We use microdermabrasion for improving the appearance of the skin and for restoring normal skin functionality. The benefits can be visible and accumulative without the necessity to go beyond the epidermis. 

Clinical outcomes are determined on the regularity and the intensity of the treatments. This can only be determined after a thorough Skin Health Assessment has been completed and an understanding of the skin’s current condition and your primary concerns have been addressed. Treatments are not restricted to just the face. Microdermabrasion can be used on areas of the body and is highly recommended for the treatment of keratosis pilaris, acne vulgaris, xerosis/dry skin, congested skin conditions, eczema (with caution) and ingrown hair issues (McManus, 2016).

Major benefits of diamond microdermabrasion include:

• Minimal discomfort (if any)

• Stimulates collagen restructuring

• Encourages healthy cellular turnover with improved ceramide production

• Is an excellent exfoliation prior to advanced therapies such as LED, infusion, traditional massage or as a stand alone treatment

• Instant results that improve over time

• Perfect for preparing sun damaged skins for resurfacing modalities

• Minimal complication rate and very low risk treatment especially relevant with scarring and pigmentation

• Minimal side effects (if any)

• No downtime, very quick recovery

• Often used as the exfoliation step in other treatments

• Is quick and easy to perform

• The dermal clinician has greater control of the depth of exfoliation by altering the parameters of the treatment to suit the skin condition

• Can be used on Fitzpatrick phototypes

Treatment prices

Microdermabrasion with Skin Rehab™ includes a clinical cleansing sequence, mini-peel and mask therapy or LED. The Skin Health Assessment includes microdermabrasion and is an excellent way to begin any program of dermal therapies. 

Microdermabrasion (medium area - face, neck & decolletage or arms) $150

Microdermabrasion (large area - back or lower legs) $195

Programs available for specific skin conditions POA

How does microdermabrasion work?

Microdermabrasion removes the stratum corneum and creates a “polishing” effect on the skin. The outermost layer of the skin can become dry, dehydrated, dull, flaky and irregular in texture and colour. Microdermabrasion safely and gently improves this by creating controlled wound which stimulates the wound healing process. The benefits of this is that the wound healing cascade improves barrier function, dermal remodelling, smoother skin texture and a reduction in epidermal pigmentation, normalising melanin production (Lew, Cho & Lee, 2006).

Diamond microdermabrasion uses diamond-encrusted tips in a stainless steel handpiece. This hand piece is attached to a machine that powers the negative pressure or vacuum suction that sucks the skin to the diamond tip to create a seal. The suction is adjusted to create the desired effect and lower suction is generally used around delicate areas of the face as the vasculature and the skin is very superficial and fragile. Areas on the body however, can often have a tougher texture and respond better with a stronger suction and a courser diamond grit.

The diamond tips come in different grades of grit and the selection of abrasiveness is determined on the condition being treated, the current health status of the skin and any other pre-existing conditions that may be present (Grimes, 2005). The diamond pieces are sterilized after use in an autoclave and this prevents cross-contamination between treatments.

What can Microdermabrasion treat?

Microdermabrasion successfully treats the following conditions:

• Skin textural concerns

• Photo damage (thickened stratum corneum, keratosis and pigmentation irregularities)

• Hyperpigmentation such as lentigines and melasma

• Dull and sallow, sluggish skin

• Enlarged pores

• Scarring and stretch marks

• Acne grade I-IV

• Fine rhytids (wrinkles)

• Chronological ageing

• Dry and thickened skin

• Oily, thickened skin

• Milia

• Keratosis pilaris

• Seborrheic keratosis

• Enhancement of antioxidants and active ingredients

• Rosacea and telangiectasia (assists with barrier function to reduce sensitivity)

The Dermal Health Alliance/Skin Rehab™ is a firm believer in the restorative powers of gentle microdermabrasion. It can be used as a stand alone treatment but is preferred to be used as an inclusion with other modalities such as LED light therapy, dermal delivery, SRS Skin Remodelling or as a preparation for SkinPen and peeling treatments.