Facial microdermabrasion is a treatment and rejuvenation procedure for facial skin. This procedure is done using exfoliation techniques, so that dead facial skin cells are removed.
Facial microdermabrasion is usually carried out to overcome a number of problems on the surface or the outer layer (epidermis) of facial skin, such as reducing fine wrinkles and treating skin disorders in areas of the face that are not too large. This procedure is not effective at treating deep facial scars.
In contrast to dermabrasion which requires local or general anesthesia, facial microdermabrasion procedures do not use anesthetics because they are painless.
Indications for Facial Microdermabrasion
Facial microdermabrasion is generally performed on people who have facial skin problems in the form of:
- Fine lines or wrinkles
- Pimples or acne scars
- Dull skin
- Blackheads and large pores
- Dark spots due to sunlight
- Hyperpigmentation, which is dark patches on the skin around the face
- Unequal skin color
- Uneven skin texture as in keratosis pilaris
Facial Microdermabrasion Warning
Facial microdermabrasion cannot be performed on a person with the following conditions:
- Just had facial surgery in the previous 2 months
- Are undergoing radiotherapy to the head
- Are taking the drug isotretinoin or have taken the drug in the previous 6 months
- Suffering from bacterial or viral infections of the face and around the mouth, such as impetigo
- Suffering from rosacea
- Having lesions or abnormal tissue on the facial skin that is suspected of being skin cancer and is still actively growing
Before Face Microdermabrasion
Before facial microdermabrasion is performed, the doctor will examine the patient's condition to ensure this procedure is safe and suitable for the patient's facial skin problems.
In addition, there are several things that patients need to do before undergoing facial microdermabrasion, namely:
- Tell the doctor if you have a history of allergies to the use of certain facial care products
- Avoid sun exposure for one week before the procedure
- Do not do waxing as well as other procedures to remove facial hair for one week before the procedure
- Stop using sunscreen creams, exfoliating creams, and face masks for three days before the procedure
- Clean your face and don't use cosmetics on your face before doing the procedure
Facial Microdermabrasion Procedure
Facial microdermabrasion can be done in a beauty clinic or hospital. The entire facial microdermabrasion process generally takes about 30–60 minutes. Although it can be uncomfortable, facial microdermabrasion does not require the use of local or general anesthesia.
There are three types of facial microdermabrasion that doctors can perform, namely: crystal microdermabrasion, ddiamond tip handpiece, and hydradermabrasion. The explanation is as follows:
Crystal microdermabrasion
Crystal microdermabrasion is a type of facial microdermabrasion treatment performed using a device that can spray micro-sized crystals onto the outermost layer of facial skin (epidermis).
The crystal grains will erode and remove dead skin cells, thereby stimulating the growth of new skin cells.
Diamond tip handpiece
Diamond tip handpiece is a type of treatment that is carried out using a suction wand-shaped device with a tip containing micro-crystals. When this tool is rubbed into facial skin, dead skin cells will be exfoliated and sucked up by the tool.
The depth of the peeled skin depends on the rubbing of the tool and how long the suction is carried out. This tool is generally applied to areas of the face that are difficult to reach and sensitive, such as the skin around the eyes.
Hydradermabrasion
Hydradermabrasion is the latest type of facial microdermabrasion treatment. This type of microdermabrasion is performed by combining the use of a crystal-free exfoliant with a special liquid that increases hydration of the facial skin.
Hydradermabrasion useful for removing dead skin, improving blood flow to facial skin, and increasing collagen production which is good for facial skin health.
Doctors can advise patients for follow-up facial microdermabrasion sessions to get the best results. Typically, it takes 5–16 sessions of facial microdermabrasion to achieve smoother, more radiant skin.
After Face Microdermabrasion
After undergoing facial microdermabrasion, the patient will be allowed to go home and resume normal activities. Over the course of a few weeks, the patient may notice that the skin is more sensitive than usual, especially when exposed to sunlight.
Therefore, the use of sunscreen is highly recommended if the patient wants to do outdoor activities. Choose and use facial care products that make facial skin moist, and avoid using acne-removing drugs after this procedure.
Side Effects of Facial Microdermabrasion
Facial microdermabrasion is a safe procedure and rarely causes serious side effects. Side effects that arise usually only occur on the outer surface of the skin (epidermis) and do not last long. Some of these side effects are:
- Skin tightening
- redness
- Swollen
- Bruises
- Sensitive skin
- Dry skin
- peeling skin