Microdermabrasion was first adopted in Europe and was introduced in the United States in the 1990s. Today microdermabrasion remains one of the most popular esthetician provided services.
Microdermabrasion (or MDA for short) is an aesthetic procedure which can be compared to a mild “sandblasting” of the skin. The stimulation boosts blood circulation and revitalizes collagen production, which when used in moderation may instigate the regrowth of new younger-looking skin. The degree of exfoliation depends on the number of passes over the skin, the grit of the diamond wand, and the frequency and consistency of treatments.
Microdermabrasion can be helpful to treat aging and sun-damaged skin, altered pigmentation, fine lines and wrinkles, stretch marks, and some types of acne and acne scarring. Because microdermabrasion removes dead surface skin cells and initiates cellular turnover, temporary results may include improved skin tone, reduced visual appearance of aging, fewer breakouts, diminished appearance of scars, refined skin pores, renewed elasticity, and a healthy glow.
Microdermabrasion may be recommended for those with chemical sensitivities and can be used on most skin colors and types.
At Absolutely Flawless, the older method of microdermabrasion (in which a machine uses suction combined with either a wand spraying fine crystals across the skin or a diamond encrusted tip is used) has been replaced with the Dermafile™ method of Microdermabrasion. Dermafiles™ are small hand held wands that are diamond encrusted, and I manually polish the face without the use of suction.
Why Use the Dermafile™ Method of Microdermabrasion?
As both a person who has delicate skin and a professional esthetician who follows the Osmosis philosophy, I felt that the stimulation and suction of a traditional Microdermabrasion machine was not necessary and carried too much of the potential of breaking blood vessels and causing too much trauma and inflammation to the face which could actually contribute to premature aging of the skin, especially for those who are older clients or other people with more fragile skin.
Is the Dermafile™ Method of Microdermabrasion as effective?
Please remember that you will never get the changes you want without a proper home care regimen. Do you lose weight by going to the gym once every six weeks and then eating whatever you want the rest of the time? Absolutely not! True change is 90% what you do at home every day, and 10% what is done in my office. Also remember that too much microdermabrasion will actually age the skin faster. I prefer to use it as a jump start to skin transformation. The real magic happens with the right products.
But is the Dermafile™ method comparable to other methods of microdermabrasion? In my opinion, my method is even better and much more relaxing. I prepare my clients for exfoliation with an ultrasonic spatula, which blasts tiny sprays of water into the pores at a super high frequency. This pushes out debris, eliminating the need for harsh suction.
Who cannot receive Dermafile™ Microdermabrasion?
Most clients find the procedure to be comfortable. When in doubt, it is recommended to schedule a free consultation before a Dermafile™ treatment. Dermafile™ Microdermabrasion is not recommended for people with active acne pustules (a cleansing or acne facial(s) may be needed before treatment); Rosacea; bacterial, fungal, or viral infections of the skin; or immediately following certain procedures.
What is a typical Dermafile™ treatment experience?
Please arrive to your appointment without makeup if possible. Just relax as the wand is applied to your face in a slow, methodical way. One treatment should take forty-five minutes to an hour. Your skin will look glowing and fresh almost immediately after the treatment. Some more aggressive treatments may cause the skin to look slightly pink and tender for a few hours afterward and sometimes flaking of the skin can occur for a few days after eventually revealing smoother, softer skin underneath. If you can avoid makeup application, it is best to let the skin breathe until the next day, however it is okay to apply makeup if necessary. Also heavy exercise (sweating may cause stinging). For the most part, you can resume normal activities immediately after your session.
What About Home Care?
Because fresh skin has been newly exposed, it is important to apply sunscreen and to avoid direct sun/tanning booths following your session. Also, avoid products containing harsh chemicals, dyes, or perfumes until the skin has fully healed. We will discuss the home care regimen that is right for you.