What Is the Best Time of Year for Microdermabrasion?
Maybe you’ve heard of microdermabrasion but don’t know much about what it does. Let’s talk through what a microdermabrasion treatment involves, which kinds of skin conditions it can it help with, and what season is the most optimal time to try it.
How Does Microdermabrasion Work?
Microdermabrasion is a highly popular superficial exfoliation treatment. This cosmetic therapy is non-surgical, safe, and effective. It helps with everything from smoothing fine lines and wrinkles to reducing the appearance of sun damage or scars and improving irregularities in skin tone. Microdermabrasion for acne is becoming increasingly popular as well, since it can help prevent breakouts.
A microdermabrasion treatment uses a minimally abrasive instrument to slough off the topmost layer of dead skin cells, revealing a layer of fresh skin cells below. This not only makes skin instantly brighter and smoother, but over time it can help promote the production of collagen and elastin in the skin — two ingredients responsible for skin’s elasticity and firmness, which diminish over time during the aging process.
Microdermabrasion can be added onto a regular facial or is a great procedure on its own. It’s quick and easy — usually lasting less than 30 minutes, which is why it’s sometimes referred to as the “lunchtime facial.”
What Should I Expect After a Microdermabrasion Treatment?
Microdermabrasion requires no downtime, so you should be able to return to your daily activities immediately following the treatment. However, skin may be somewhat pink or red right after the procedure, but this is usually diminished within a few hours to a day or two afterward. Occasionally, there may also be some dry, flaky skin for a few days post-procedure.
Your skin will be more sensitive to the sun, so it’s a good idea to avoid direct sunlight following the procedure and to wear an SPF 30 or higher product. Because of this, it’s often best to schedule a microdermabrasion treatment when you won’t be doing as much outdoor activity for a few days — so if you’re going to the beach, schedule your treatment appointment for at least a week or two prior.
Results include a glowing, younger-appearing skin tone, with improvement in the skin’s texture and appearance. Most patients also notice how smooth and soft the skin feels to the touch. These results are usually noticeable within a few days following the treatment, though occasionally it may take two or three treatments to see improvements. Your dermatologist can make recommendations about how far apart to schedule treatments. Many people opt to receive a microdermabrasion treatment every four to six weeks for optimal results.
Other Things to Know About Microdermabrasian
Don’t let the potential sensitivity to sunlight fool you. Microdermabrasion treatments are often most popular in summer, when excess heat, sweat, dirt, and oil can lead to a buildup of problematic material on the skin’s surface. Those who suffer from acne may notice that getting microdermabrasion during summer months can help prevent breakouts by keeping skin exfoliated.
A week prior to the appointment, you should avoid retinol products and prescription retinoids, products containing hydroxy acids, like glycolic acid (AHA), salicylic acid (BHA), or benzoyl peroxide, and any exfoliating products. Your doctor can talk to you about specific treatment instructions.
Contact North Pacific Dermatology
Interested in microdermabrasion? If you’re in the Bellevue, Washington area, contact North Pacific Dermatology today for an appointment.