Microdermabrasion
For Mild-Moderate Acne Scarring

Microdermabrasion To Clear Acne Scarring
 

Micro-dermabrasion involves the removal of the dead, outer layer of skin via a process similar to sand-blasting - tiny rough particles are blown onto and brushed against the skin before being and vacuumed away. It is a procedure which is regarded as being effective in helping soften and/or remove light acne scarring. It is also also useful as a method of removing dead skin cells which may be clogging up the new layer of skin, thus increasing the risk of new spots forming.

It is not the same thing as dermabrasion, a process which goes significantly deeper into the skin.

A series of microdermabrasion treatments are needed to achieve the desired effect – you should expect to need 3 – 8 technician’s treatments spaced over 2-weekly intervals.  You can also do microdermabrasion yourself using home kits, but since the kit machines are far less powerful than the professional ones, you should bear in mind that 5 home microdermabrasions are equivalent to 1 medical grade microdermabrasion, and that ideally, you would give yourself 7 days using such a kit, then 5 days rest. * 

It is important to realise that microdermabrasion will not treat outbreaks of acne - it is principally a cosmetic procedure which is designed to clear up the damage left by old marks and blemishes.  You should not have microdermabrasion while you have an active outbreak of acne.

Will Microdermabrasion Reduce My Acne Scarring?

Microdermasion is only suitable for treating the most superficial of acne scars.

It is important that if you are considering undergoing a salon/spa microdermabrasion, you seek out a properly trained and experienced practitioner, and that you consult with him or her to establish just what results you can realistically expect to achieve.

Don't be afraid to do a little research before committing to anything.  Most people wouldn't dream of investing in a house or a car without having it checked out first, yet they are prepared to place their most valuable commodity, their body, in the hands of a complete stranger.

Don't allow yourself to be reassured simply by a wall full of diplomas and degrees - you have the right to ask your technician;

- How many times have you performed this procedure? Over how many years?
- How many times have you performed this procedure on patients of my skin type?
- Can I see photos?
- Is facial surgery your specialism, or just one of a number of areas you work on?
- Can I speak with some of your patients?

Cost:

Prices vary widely, but expect to pay around $200 per professional treatment. Costs of home treatment will be a small fraction of this.
 

* Audrey Kunin, M.D. August 2005

 

Comparison of Scar Treatment Procedures

Procedure	Mild Scars	Severe Scars	Side Effect Free	Affordability
Superficial Peel
Mid-Deep Peel
Microdermabrasion
Dermabrasion
Dermaplaning
Ablative Lasers
Non-ablative Lasers
Punch Techniques
Augmentation
Topical Creams

See Also:
 

Chemical Skin Peels
Acne Scar Creams
Dermabrasion
Dermaplaning
Laser Surgery
Punch Techniques
Augmentation