Facial skin resurfacing can be traced to ancient Egyptian times and the application of abrasive masks of alabaster particles. For millennia, various substances have been used to peel, exfoliate, and rejuvenate the skin. These substances include acids, poultices of minerals and plants, and direct irritants such as fire and sandpaperlike materials.

The evolution of chemical peeling and dermabrasion into the procedures in common use today began in the early 20th century.

Microdermabrasion was developed in Italy in 1985 - its use was widespread in European countries prior to its introduction and popularity in the United States. The technology offers the advantages of low risk and rapid recovery compared with more traditional resurfacing modalities and can be effective in the appropriate patient population.

Other skin resurfacing techniques, such as dermabrasion, chemical peeling, and laser resurfacing, but also the potential are effective but have the risk of significant complications. On the other hand, microdermabrasion had many advantages, including that it

• does not require anesthesia,
• is painless,
• can be repeated at short intervals,
• is simple and quick to perform, and
• does not significantly interrupt the patient's life.

Microdermabrasion produces a superficial ablation, primarily in the epidermis, therefore, the procedure is not effective for deeper wrinkles or scars. However, for fine lines and more superficial scars, microdermabrasion can be an effective treatment with minimal risk and rapid recovery. Microdermabrasion does not carry the risks of pigmentary changes or scarring associated with techniques such as dermabrasion, chemical peels, or laser resurfacing. The treatment involves little risk, rapid recovery and is well suited for patients with early sun damage and busy lifestyles because the only real downtime is that of the treatment itself.

The goal of microdermabrasion treatments is improvement of the overall skin quality by addressing changes of mild photoaging, age spots, enlarged pores, and acne. Microdermabrasion is also effective for reducing the appearance of fine lines and superficial scars. Results of this technique on brown spots are variable. Patients also must be prepared for the number and frequency of treatments. If patients are unwilling to commit to a series of treatments, then they are unlikely to see significant results and will not be satisfied with the outcome.

Patients must be fully prepared for what microdermabrasion cannot accomplish. Patients with deep wrinkles, deep scars, or pigmentary abnormalities are unlikely to achieve significant results. These patients are best treated with other modalities, such as intense pulsed light photorejuvenation, chemical peels, and laser resurfacing, which result in greater depth of injury. Using these modalities increases effectiveness, but the risk of complications and length of recovery also increase.

The results achieved with microdermabrasion can be enhanced with other therapies in the form of topical skin treatments. Common adjuncts to microdermabrasion include alpha-hydroxy acids, retinoic acid, and topical vitamin C. Liberal use of sunscreen and moisturizers is also beneficial. Postoperatively, these products serve to address exfoliation and photosensitization. Long-term benefits include reduction of sun damage and photoaging and improved skin moisture.

Call Brenwood Skin Renewal Centre NOW on (02)49578493 and discover the benefits of Microderabrasion!