Multiple microdermabrasion methods

[Dee]

There are 3 methods used in microdermabrasion,

'Crystal microdermabrasion '
which is the use of tiny crystals that are blasted onto the skin which in turn exfoliate the skin.

'Diamond microdermabrasion' which is a diamond tipped head sucks away the dead skin.

'Home Microdermabrasion' which is tiny particles that polish the skin or gradually remove scared or discoloured skin, these creams have been found to be effective however not as good as getting it done professionally.

[Sarah C]

So when would you undergo microdermabrasion, laser resurfacing or chemical peel? :confused:

[Dee]

It depends on which option you choose to undergo and when you have decided then you attend the relevant clinics and have your skin treated, of course there are the methods you can use at home but these are suppose to not be as effective.

[Mr James McDiarmid]

Sarah,
you have raised a good point.
The three options you mentioned each have different strengths and different depths of penetration into the skin.
As well as determining the effectiveness of the treatment the depth of penetration determines the downtime and the side effects.


Microdermabrasion systems differ as do peels and lasers, but essentially...

microdermabrasion is lighter than a (TCA-based) peel which is lighter than a CO2 or Erbium YAG resurfacing laser.

Selection of the most appropriate treatment method takes judgement which comes from experience.

[Clare M]

Would a good practitioner offer all 3 methods?

[Mr James McDiarmid]

A good practitioner will know the limitations of each treatment method and if they don't offer the more invasive methods will know when to refer to those who do.

To quote the great Tom Biggs (ex-ISAPS president) "No key fits every lock..."

[AmandaT]

Does the age of the "candidate" play a role in which procedure is offered?

Would someone under 55 have more choices available than someone over 55 or 60?

[Mr James McDiarmid]

Hi Amanda,

Peoples' skin quality varies tremendously based on a variety of genetic and environmental factors.

Generally in heavy smokers and sunworshippers physiological skin ageing will be in advance of where one would expect and it may be that deeper skin rejuvenative treatments would be the way to go.

Chronological (actual) age is a secondary consideration and physiological age (how well the skin has worn) is really the primary issue.

Patient age is one of many factors to consider whan deciding which treatment to undergo. I think the most important questions to ask are what is the objective of treatment and is this treatment modality capable of satisfying this patient's rejuvenative expectations in a safe and effective way?