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Facial

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Laser Treatment

Injectables Comparison Chart

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	Artefill®
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Topical Collagen Creams

Microdermabrasion

Chemical peels

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Pre-treatment questions

American Academy of Dermatology

American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery

American Society for Dermatologic Surgery

AAFPRS

What is Microdermabrasion?


	Microdermabrasion refers to a number of treatments which remove the superficial skin layer
	Results are usually immediate
	Some redness and swelling is normal right after treatment

The word 'microdermabrasion' is used to classify a number of devices which all remove a very superficial portion of the skin known as the stratum corneum. This is the uppermost layer of the skin, comprised of dead skin cells. Microdermabrasion works by removing this layer, thereby exfoliating the skin.

Treatment

There are a variety of ways to do this. Some involve creams with abrasive particulates that are scrubbed onto the skin, while others may use devices with crystals which are passed across the skin with suction to 'sand' down the skin. Non-particulate techniques are also popular, using abrasive paddles that remove those dead cells.

The microdermabrasion provider can be less or more aggressive depending on the treatment and its goals, as well as perform it in combination with other treatments such as chemical peels.

Results

Generally the skin feels smoother immediately following the treatment. Microdermabrasion used in conjunction with other topical therapies can also enhance the penetration of the topicals as well.

A little bit of redness and swelling is common and may last for several hours after the initial treatment. Less commonly, following an aggressive treatment session, there can be some bruising or a suction mark from a suction device.

For more information see: Laser Treatment, Injectables Comparison, Choosing Your Doctor

To learn more about finding the right treatment, see: Choosing a Doctor

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Last Modified: September 10, 2007

Frequently Asked Questions
	What are GAGs (Glycosaminoglycans)?	What is botulinum toxin?
	What is adipose?	What are dermal fillers?
	What is non-ablative laser?	What is Hyaluronic acid?
	What is the Dermis?	What are retinoids?
	What is the Epidermis?	What are antioxidants?
	What are granulomas?

The information contained in the above article is purely for educational purposes and is not intended to provide any medical advice. Always consult with your physician before having any medical procedure performed.

What is Microdermabrasion?

Treatment

Results

Frequently Asked Questions