Dermabrasion
Mechanical resurfacing of the
skin has been in use for about 50 years and involves the use
of abrasive tools to remove the outer layers of the skin to
produce an improved appearance. Dermabrasion has been used for
the treatment of photoaging (from sun damage), wrinkles,
scarring, acne, precancerous lesions, and perform discoloration
(called dyschromia). Superficial and deep techniques are available.
There are two layers of the skin; the outer layer is called
the epidermis and the inner layer, the dermis. Superficial dermabrasion
removes portions of the epidermis and deep dermabrasion removes
all of the epidermis and portions of the dermis. Deep methods
are the preferred method for treatment of scarring (i.e. from
acne or trauma) and other less common skin conditions (i.e.
epidermal nevi, rhinophyma, and benign tumors). It has also
been used for removal of resistant tattoos. Deep methods are
more effective but generally require healing time and carry
a higher risk of complications.
Microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion, also referred
to as the “lunch time” procedure, is a popular procedure
which is classified as light, or very superficial dermabrasion.
This method employs aluminum oxide crystals that are propelled at
the skin and immediately sucked up. Although not scientifically
proven to improve the appearance of skin, many patients report that
their skin feels smoother. It is used to treat acne, dyschromias,
and general “rejuvenation”. It is also popular because
it is painless and there is no recovery time after the procedure.
Newer devices now are crystal-less.
Manual dermasanding abrades the
skin with silicone carbide sandpaper. This method is usually
considered to be a medium depth procedure and is sometimes used
in combination with other methods, such as chemical
peels, carbon dioxide lasers, and motorized dermabrasion.
Motorized dermabrasion is a medium-deep
or deep procedure and employs the use of a motorized brush or diamond
cylinder. These tools are used to remove the outer layers of the
skin in a controlled setting. Local anesthesia is used for pain
control during the procedure. Dressings usually need to be worn
after the procedure and temporary facial swelling and pain are normal.
Within 7-10 days, the skin has healed but is often very red. Complete
healing may take up to one month and collagen remodeling may continue
for months after the procedure. Dermabrasion has been proven to
improve the cosmetic appearance of the skin, especially in the treatment
of scarring.
Not everyone is a good candidate
for dermabrasion. Those with active acne, infections, and other
scarring skin conditions may need treatment before undergoing dermabrasion.
You and your physician need to decide if dermabrasion is the
right procedure for you.
Complications are rare but include
infection, prolonged healing, hyperpigmentation, and scarring.
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