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We all wish things like acne scars, fine wrinkles and sunspots were 100% avoidable. The fact is they can happen. It is difficult to want to accept any of these, which is where there comes good news. Microdermabrasion treatments have a proven track record at alleviating these skin conditions.

What Is Microdermabrasion?

Microdermabrasion is the process of using light abrasion to partially or completely remove the stratum corneum, the dead outermost surface of the skin. It is performed at day spas, doctors' offices, and can even take place in the privacy of your own home

Microdermabrasion and Its Three Application Techniques

Crystal Microdermabrasion

Crystal microdermabrasion has always been the traditional treatment of choice. In this procedure a special hand held device blows a high speed flow of aluminum oxide microcrystals onto the outermost layer of the skin. The exfoliation process occurs from these microcrystals. Simultaneously a different part of this device is vacuuming from the skin all the dirt, dead cells and used crystals. There are two strengths that make this effective. The crystals' irregular shape makes them an effective abrader while its aluminum oxide component is the second hardest mineral after diamonds.

Diamond Microdermabrasion

Diamond microdermabrasion uses a disposable or diamond tipped wand to abrade the outermost layer of the skin. By using this wand, the possibility of free flying crystals accidentally hitting sensitive areas of the face is removed. The tipped wand has a better rate of precision because it is made in different shapes and sizes. The negative is that both these procedures require that the patient attends a medical clinic or day spa for at least 6 to 12 sessions. These appointments last up to an hour and the price tag can reach up to a thousand dollars. Fortunately a cheaper and more time efficient skin microdermabrasion treatment is out.

At Home Microdermabrasion

Skin resurfacing products can now add to their list a microdermabrasion cream that can be used from home. It is easy to apply and it produces long lasting results, in particular if the cream is made of all natural ingredients. A microdermabrasion cream abrades the surface of the skin using tiny particles to leave a 'polished' look to your face after its application. After repeated use a discolored or scarred skin surface is gradually removed. The microdermabrasion results are twofold. The surface skin cell turnover is enhanced and it causes the self replenishment of collagen and elastin to replace the older and drier layer of the skin.