Dermabrasion is a surgical procedure that gets rid of fine lines and wrinkles. It is also used to reduce the appearance of scars. The procedure was widely known when it was initially discovered in the 1960s and has been greatly improved in recent years.
Individuals who have had facial scarring and have not obtained a satisfactory solution can use this procedure as a safe means of improving their facial or skin imperfections. However, there is a new skin treatment that offers a similar but gentler treatment. It is also used as an alternative treatment to dermabrasion.
Similar and Alternative Treatments to Dermabrasion
A relatively new skin treatment now offers a gentler alternative treatment to Dermabrasion. This treatment is known as Vibradermabrasion with infusion. The procedure makes the chance of irritation relatively less. With the traditional surgical skin planning technique, the removal of dead skin cells is performed with aluminum oxide, using a process that is similar to sandblasting. Subsequently, the crystals are eliminated from the patient's face using suction.
Dermabrasion has been proven to be effective and gives the patient a more youthful look. On the other hand, the technique is prone to skin irritation and there have been reports that the fine crystals used for this procedure results in, or worsens, upper respiratory conditions in some patients. When suctioning is not adequately applied, there are chances of crystals being embedded in the skin of the patients. Even when suctioning has been properly applied, it is very likely that the small capillaries under the skin could break. This is more obvious with the aging of the skin, which becomes thinner.
Vibradermabrasion
Vibradermabrasion offers younger and more enhanced looking skin without the potential risks or adverse effects that the traditional surgical skin planning technique produces. Another area of benefit from the new procedure is infusion, by using topical preparations like skin lighteners and moisturizers to achieve skin hydration or reduction of rough pigmentation.
In the Vibradermabrasion procedure, an instrument with the shape of a paddle vibrates at 80 to 100 Hz electronically and gets rid of dead skin. The vibration of the paddle is similar to an electric toothbrush in contact with the skin. The process also helps build collagen under the skin and gets rid of dead skin cells. The formed collagen firmly holds the skin and also lessens fine lines. This process raises the flow of blood to the skin to oxygenate the area through its massage-like movement and the end product is an improved and invigorated look.
Vibradermabrasion vs. Dermabrasion
While patients may experience redness or skin irritation with Dermabrasion, Vibradermabrasion is gentler on the skin and has no side effects, redness or irritation. There is almost no downtime with this technique and it is a more relaxing process for treating facial scarring.
Micro-Dermabrasion vs. Dermabrasion
Micro-dermabrasion is another similar and alternative treatment to Dermabarasion. The difference between the two is Dermabrasion exfoliates deeper, while micro-dermabrasion peels off just the top. Dermabrasion is more invasive and more effective.
Micro-dermabrasion is not as effective on scars and deep wrinkles, since it only takes off a fine layer of skin. However, the mild peeling of the procedure helps in achieving the removal of fine lines, stretch-marks and superficial scars. It also treats acne substantially. Micro-dermabrasion enhances the entire complexion and eliminates certain less-severe imperfections.
Micro-dermabrasion is an ideal option for use on the neck area in comparison with other procedures such as laser skin resurfacing. Due to the sensitive nature of the skin at the neck region, it has increased risk of scarring and needs a mild procedure, such as micro-dermabrasion.
