Dermabrasion is a facial resurfacing technique that was first used in 1905, to smooth and enhance the appearance of the skin. The treatment didn't gain widespread appeal until the 1950s. Dermabrasion utilizes an abrasive devise to sand away the surface of the skin, allowing new healthier skin to replace it. The procedure is performed by dermatologists and plastic surgeons. Dermabrasion benefits the following conditions:
Acne and Surgical Scars
The first use of dermabrasion was for the treatment of acne scars. Dermabrasion treatment can smooth out scars, leaving the skin with a much more even texture. Dermabrasion is not effective on burn scars.
Facial Wrinkles
Dermabrasion can help remove some facial wrinkles, like the deep wrinkles commonly found around the mouth area. The depth of dermabrasion can be adjusted depending on the location and severity of the wrinkles.
Tattoo Removal
Dermabrasion can be used to remove tattooed areas of skin and help new skin to grow. It is not recommended for facial tattoos. The pigment in older tattoos can sometimes migrate to deeper areas, making them harder to treat with dermabrasion.
Age Spots
Dermabrasion treatment can remove age spots and other pigmentation problems. The skin will appear more youthful and evenly toned after the dermabrasion procedure.
Precancerous Growths
Dermabrasion can be used to remove precancerous growths (otherwise known as keratoses) before they can lead to more serious health problems.
The Procedure
Medication may be given prior to the dermabrasion procedure, to help relax the patient. The area to be treated is cleansed with an antiseptic and then a spray is applied that will freeze the skin. A high speed instrument is used to remove the outer layers of the skin.
Healing
After the procedure, patients might feel as though they suffered a severe skin burn. Medication can be used to ease discomfort. An ointment will be applied to the skin to keep it moist. The patient will be instructed to reapply the ointment whenever the skin feels dry or tight. Sometimes special products that contain growth factors are applied to the skin.
The top layer of skin starts to regenerate within 24 hours after the treatment, and is completely regenerated in 7 to 10 days. Deeper skin layers regenerate more slowly, but will be completely healed within several months.
Patients can usually resume normal activities 7 to 14 days after treatment. It's important to avoid unnecessary sun exposure for 3 to 6 months and to always use a sunscreen.
Side Effects
Dermabrasion treatment can benefit a lot of skin conditions, but sometimes can have unwanted side effects, such as: infection, areas of hyperpigmentation (that may be temporary or permanent) and scar formation. Failure to avoid sun exposure in the days following dermabrasion treatment is often the cause of hyperpigmentation problems. Darker skin types and those on oral contraceptives or hormone therapy are at greater risk for hyperpigentation.
