What to consider when getting a microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion is an outpatient procedure done to correct flaws on the skin and provide smooth, young looking skin. Recovering from a microdermabrasion procedure is quick and easy and with good preparation, you procedure will be successful.

You can actually do a microdermabrasion procedure in your own home as seen in Microdermabrasion April's review of the PMD Personal Microderm system.

Below are things to know before you get a microdermabrasion:

1.     Do not exfoliate

Do not exfoliate your skin too close to a treatment (give it at least one week). The purpose of exfoliation is to remove dead cells; microdermabrasion also serves the same purpose.

Doing the two procedures too close to each other means putting your healthy skin cells under attack during microdermabrasion.

It is therefore important to avoid exfoliation to reduce the chances of skin damage and inflammation.

Avoid exposure to the sun. Exposure to the sun will damage your skin and make it sensitive hence making it unsuitable for the treatment as your skin will irritate very easily. Your recovery period will also be longer. If you’re going to be in the sun for prolonged periods of time, use sunscreen to protect from UV rays.

2.     Stop smoking

Smoking prevents proper blood circulation in the skin and this can have negative consequences to recovery.

3.     Consult a doctor

Though this is an outpatient procedure with minimal likelihood of things going wrong, it is better to err on the side of caution. If pregnant, certain procedures might be harmful. If you suffer from skin allergies, you need to check with your dermatologist whether this is the right procedure for you.

Another good reason to see a doctor is if you are on medication. Note down all your prescriptions in order to check with your dermatologist whether any of them could have negative consequences.

For instance, Retin-A is known to increase skin sensitivity; Aspirin is known to thin the blood.

4.     Check your doctor’s reputation

A badly done microdermabrasion could result in scarring. The best way to ensure you get the best job done on your skin is to visit a good doctor who has a lot of good reviews from patients.

The cost element may influence your choice of dermatologist. However, unless he or she comes with a reputation to match the good cost, then it’s better to pay more elsewhere.

Avoid getting your procedure done overseas. In case of complications, you will have to spend more money getting further treatments. Furthermore, it is harder to be assured of the reputation of the said professional.

After your treatment, you should continue exercising good care of your skin by doing the following:

• Get yourself a good cleanser and moisturizer suited to your skin type. Your skin is now well primed to benefit from good products as they can penetrate better.
• Avoid exfoliating for a couple of days (this can vary from one person to another). Exfoliating at this point will mean you are over cleansing your skin and stripping it of its protection.
• Avoid tanning booths.
• Avoid exposure to the sun. Use sunscreen.