Dermabrasion is one of the most intensive procedures available to treat damage from sun and aging, and to restore an even surface to the skin. This treatment involves removing the damaged top layer of skin to allow new, younger-looking skin to grow in. Risks and side effects range from mild to severe.
Dermabrasion relies on a rough tool, either a rotating brush or a diamond wheel, to scrape off the top layer of the dermis. This is effectively wounding the skin and usually causes it to bleed. The skin is anesthetized prior to treatment and may be frozen with a cryogenic spray to make the skin firm enough to work on. Small areas are treated at a time, most commonly on the face, although the entire face can be abraded.
Common Side Effects of Dermabrasion
You may be under sedation or anesthetic during the treatment, so you will feel little to no pain or discomfort. However, the healing process of the skin after treatment can be quite painful, and the doctor may suggest some over-the-counter painkillers to lessen the discomfort. Skin that has just been abraded is vulnerable to infection, so you will likely be given antibiotics to reduce the risk of infection.
Healing time is dependent on the own body's healing process. Deeper abrasions or treatments of the entire face will take longer to heal completely than small "spot" treatments.
Many patients experience skin reddening that can be compared to a severe sunburn, which may last several weeks. Normal pigmentation will return within three months after the procedure. When new skin has grown in, makeup can be used to correct for pinkness. Some swelling may occur during healing and can be treated.
Crusting and peeling are common indicators that the skin is healing. You must cleanse your skin daily with recommended cleansing agents. This reduces the amount of visible crusting or peeling and promotes healing. You may also be given an ointment or dressing to cover the affected area and keep it moisturized during healing.
The skin is particularly sensitive to sun and wind after dermabrasion. Once the skin has healed and there is no more peeling, topical sunscreen should be used to protect it from burning. Direct and indirect sunlight should be avoided for up to three months.
Uncommon or Rare Side Effects
Some people have allergic reactions to anesthesia. If you know or suspect you are allergic, talk to your doctor about your concerns. You may not be a candidate for dermabrasion, because anesthetic use is generally not avoidable.
In some cases, skin can grow back not just reddened, but significantly darker than the skin that was removed. This darker pigmentation may be temporary or permanent. Conversely, darker-skinned patients may experience a lightening of the skin.
Some patients with blood disorders may experience problems with bleeding or scabbing. Your doctor can take precautions to avoid complications related to bleeding.
Deeper abrasions come with the risk of scarring, especially when performed over bony areas such as the cheekbones or jaw.
