Dermabrasion is a surgical treatment that involves the removal of the top layer of skin using an abrasive device. Wrinkles, acne scars, and other skin issues can all be treated with this. The treatment is versatile and can be used alone or in conjunction with other cosmetic procedures like chemical peels or laser treatments.

The dermabrasion process is generally safe, but there are few things you should avoid doing afterwards. In this piece, we’ll go over several things you shouldn’t do after getting a dermabrasion to make sure you don’t end up with an infection, scarring, or any other problems.

In this post, we provide the best and most up-to-date information on what to expect after dermabrasion or microdermabrasion, as well as what not to do after either procedure.

Dermabrasion is a procedure for people who want smoother skin. If you suffer from scars due to acne, surgery or accidents, have melasma or precancerous rough patches, dermabrasion can reveal more smooth and youthful skin. Performed by a dermatologist or plastic surgeon, dermabrasion is low risk, but certain skin types may not get the best results.

What kinds of conditions get treated with dermabrasion?

Dermabrasion, originally developed to reduce acne scars and pox marks, is now used to reduce wrinkles, fine lines, remove tattoos, and reverse sun damage. It can improve various skin conditions, including age spots, crow’s feet, melasma, pox marks, and tattoos. However, it cannot improve birthmarks, burns, or moles. Dermabrasion is suitable for individuals with various skin conditions, but not for birthmarks, burns, or moles.

Dermabrasion, or surgical skin planing, is a procedure where a dermatologist or plastic surgeon uses a specialized instrument to “sand” the skin. This abrasive or planing action improves skin contour as it scrapes away top layers of skin to unveil smooth new skin.

Dermabrasion is an option if you want smoother skin. Many people who suffer from skin irregularities such as fine lines from sun damage, wrinkles, melasma, acne scars (and more) see great improvement. But, it’s important to understand the risks as well as the rewards before you decide if dermabrasion is right for you.

Dermabrasion offers good results if you have fair skin. Darker skin tones are more prone to scarring or discoloration. If your skin is darker, you may achieve better results with alternative skin resurfacing procedures.

The word “dermabrasion” is straightforward. “Derm” means “skin” and “abrasion” means “the process of scraping or wearing something away.” The word itself means “scraping of the skin.”

What are the benefits of dermabrasion vs. chemical peels?

Dermabrasion offers several benefits over chemical peels, including increased collagen production, better for medium skin tones, and more effective at reducing deeper acne scars. After the procedure, the skin may feel like a bad sunburn for a few days, but it usually heals within 10-14 days. The newly formed skin will gradually develop a normal color over three months, and makeup can be used as a cover-up. Most people can resume most of their normal activities seven to 14 days after dermabrasion.

Your dermatologist or plastic surgeon will provide an after-care leaflet outlining how to care for the newly exposed skin during the healing process. This includes staying away from alcohol for the first 48 hours, avoiding aspirin and ibuprofen for a week, swimming in chlorinated pools for a month, and vigorous sports for four to six weeks. Change the dressing on the abrasion as directed by your healthcare provider, cleanse the skin several times per day to prevent crusting, and reapply a moist petroleum jelly dressing.

Smoking is not recommended as it reduces blood flow and can delay healing. Stay out of direct sunlight for three to six months and wear SPF 30 sunscreen daily. Take any prescribed antiviral or antibacterial medications and attend all follow-up visits with your healthcare provider.

The recovery time from dermabrasion is likely to take at least two weeks, with some patients receiving specific instructions to keep certain health conditions in check while they heal. Dermabrasion is a great tool to improve skin appearance and may increase confidence.

How To Care For Your Skin After Microdermabrasion

Do you have dry skin, clogged pores, hyperpigmentation, or fine lines? If you want to reduce these issues and make your skin less dull, microdermabrasion can help. This treatment offers many benefits and is a fast, gentle, and non-invasive way to revitalize the skin. Microdermabrasion exfoliates the skin to create a rejuvenated, fresh look. Using a Diamond Tip Microdermabrasion technique, microdermabrasion removes dead skin cells, oils, and other build-ups on the skin. This treatment requires  no downtime and reveals new, healthier skin cells that make the complexion look younger and brighter. After a microdermabrasion treatment, there are some precautions you need to take to ensure the best results and to keep your skin radiant for longer.

Post-Microdermabrasion Care

Gently Wash Your Face
After you get home from your microdermabrasion treatment, you may want to wash your face to remove any remaining dead skin cells. Use a wet cloth and a rehydrating toner instead of a full face routine. You don’t want to use any products that will irritate your skin or clog pores and if you use a cleanser, make sure it is gentle. It is also recommended to avoid any heavily scented products on the treatment area.

Stop Exfoliation
Microdermabrasion is essentially an intense form of exfoliation, as it takes off all of the dead skin from the treatment area, nulifying the need to exfoliate for 7 to 10 days after treatment. Because microdermabrasion removes the topmost layer of the skin, exfoliating will irritate the fresh, new skin that is revealed after treatment. Do not use any retinols, microbeads, or enzymes, as these can all irritate the skin.

Do Not Pick Your Skin
Some areas of dry skin may appear after microdermabrasion, but do not pick, scratch, or scrub the dead skin away. This can irritate the skin and pulling off dead skin can even lead to infection. Peeling any dry skin can also cause hyperpigmentation and redness. Instead, use a scent-free facial moisturizer.

Moisturize Inside And Out
Staying hydrated both internally and externally will help keep your skin radiant. Using moisturizer frequently will help reduce any dry skin caused by microdermabrasion. A daily moisturizer also helps your skin stay hydrated and supple for the long term. Drinking plenty of water will also help keep your skin look young both now and in the future. Drinking water is a vital part of minimizing dry skin.

Wear Sunscreen
While it’s always important to wear sunscreen every day, it is even more crucial after microdermabrasion. This treatment will temporarily increase photosensitivity and your skin will need extra protection from UV rays. It’s best to stay out of direct sunlight 48 hours after treatment, and to avoid wearing sunscreen for 24 hours after treatment so as not to clog your pores. After these first 24 hours, you should wear sunscreen or a moisturizer with SPF 30 on your face everyday regardless of the weather, as UV rays can cause signs of early aging as well as skin cancer.

Do you have dry skin, clogged pores, hyperpigmentation, or fine lines? If you want to reduce these issues and make your skin less dull, microdermabrasion can help. This treatment offers many benefits and is a fast, gentle, and non-invasive way to revitalize the skin. Microdermabrasion exfoliates the skin to create a rejuvenated, fresh look. Using a Diamond Tip Microdermabrasion technique, microdermabrasion removes dead skin cells, oils, and other build-ups on the skin. This treatment requires  no downtime and reveals new, healthier skin cells that make the complexion look younger and brighter. After a microdermabrasion treatment, there are some precautions you need to take to ensure the best results and to keep your skin radiant for longer.

FAQ

Q: Can microdermabrasion help with my acne?
A: Yes, microdermabrasion can help reduce acne and this treatment can be beneficial for the reduction of the appearance of acne scars. Learn more by reading 4 Great Benefits of Opting for a Microdermabrasion Acne Treatment.

Q: Is microdermabrasion used only on the face?
A: While the face is a very popular area for microdermabrasion, this treatment can also be used on the chest, neck, and back. Speak to a Glo Skin And Medspa skin specialist if you have another area of concern you would like to address. 

Q: Is microdermabrasion safe?
A: Yes, microdermabrasion is completely safe. Before you receive treatment, a Glo Skin And Medspa skin care specialist will assess your skin and discuss any concerns you may have to help achieve the best results while putting your mind at ease.