| Dermabrasion
Dermabrasion is based on the theory that the upper layer of skin can be scraped away by rough material to expose the younger more vibrant complexion underneath.
Physicians began to experiment with dermabrasion around the turn of the century. It wasn't until the 1950s, when a rotating tool was invented to resurface the skin, that dermabrasion entered a modern period.
Dermabrasion is often used to remove acne scars, discolourations, the signs of photoaging, and deep wrinkles. It can also help to tighten the skin. However, with the advent of more sophisticated technology, non-invasive techniques such as laser resurfacing have become more popular.
The Procedure
Dermabrasion is typically performed under a general anaesthetic since the surface of the skin is being sanded or planed with a tool that resembles a wire brush so that the second layer can be penetrated. However, a local anaesthetic may be used for the treatment of localised problems, such as with acne scarring. Dermabrasion may take anywhere from ten to forty-five minutes depending on the extent of treatment. The immediate results may seem a little unsatisfactory, but red raw skin that oozes is actually a sign that the procedure went well. In most instances, an antibiotic medicine and dressings will be applied immediately afterwards. Patients can expect a convalescent or downtime of between one to six months, with older people with thinner skin taking the longest to heal.
Even though your face will be red, raw and swollen immediately after the procedure, this will subside in a few days. Direct exposure to sunlight must be avoided for up to six months, and a strong sunscreen must be worn to decrease the risk of hyperpigmentation.
A much gentler method is microdermabrasion, which only removes the very top layers of the skin to reveal the fresher skin underneath. Because it is a less invasive cosmetic procedure, there is less downtime related to microdermabrasion. |
