Using Dermabrasion to Overcome Various Cosmetic Conditions

There is a variety of conditions that may lead individuals in the Roseville, California area to feel embarrassed or self-conscious. These might include wrinkles, fine lines, acne scarring, chicken pox scars, and pigmentation problems. Some even feel embarrassed by an old tattoo they now regret. Through dermabrasion, patients have found relief from all of these conditions and more. It is a minimally-invasive procedure that works to resurface the skin by removing the top layers so that new skin may grow in its place. The result is smoother skin with fewer indentations or less-defined indentations, and a more youthful appearance for some.

Those who are in good overall health and do not have a recent sunburn, radiation treatment or chemical peel may be considered an ideal candidate for this procedure. Individuals should be free of acne (although acne scarring is one of the conditions that dermabrasion may treat) and other skin conditions. Patients should be able to avoid sun exposure after the procedure, and should consider the complexion of their skin because those with lighter tones usually have better results. 

Patients with a history of cold sores or herpes, or who are not in good health may be encouraged to consider other treatment options. Those who have taken Accutane in the past year and a half may not be considered candidates, either. Of course, like any procedure, it is important to discuss candidacy for the treatment with a Roseville medical professional beforehand.

The procedure is typically performed in an outpatient setting such as a dermatologist's office or a cosmetic medical spa. Patients may be sedated during treatment, under a local anesthetic, or may be provided general anesthesia before the treatment. Speak with the specialist before your treatment to discuss the pros and cons of each to decide which you'd prefer during your procedure.

Once the skin is prepare using an antiseptic, a Freon spray is used to freeze the skin. A hand-held rotary tool with an abrasive brush will be used to resurface the skin by removing the top layers. The material on the brush, or wheel, may be sandpaper, sanding wheel, or even small wires. With the top layers of skin removed, the underlying skin is exposed to give the patient a smoother appearance and a more even skin tone. 

Patients will likely feel like their skin has been abraded for the first several days after treatment. The initial days may come with some swelling and scabbing at the treatment area, but these should go away after a few more days. Some may prescribe patients with an antibiotic during this period to avoid infection, while some are also provided pain medication to relieve any discomfort and pain. There may be a pinkish appearance to the skin for about a month or two as the skin regains its color. Patients should avoid sun exposure during this time, and any strenuous activities should be avoided for the first couple of weeks. Shaving should also be avoided during this period.

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