Dermabrasion (cont.)

How Does Dermabrasion and Microdermabrasion Work?

Dermabrasion is done in the doctor's office. You may get medication to relax you before the procedure starts. Your skin will be thoroughly cleansed, and you'll get shots of numbing medicine to anesthetize the area to be treated.

The doctor will use a high-speed instrument with an abrasive wheel or brush to remove the outer layers of your skin and improve any irregularities in your skin's surface.

In microdermabrasion, tiny crystals are sprayed onto the skin to gently remove the outer layer of your skin. This technique is less aggressive than dermabrasion, so you don't need numbing medicine. It is basically an exfoliation and skin rejuvenation procedure that leaves skin looking softer and brighter.

What Happens After Dermabrasion and Microdermabrasion?

After a dermabrasion procedure, your skin will feel as though it has been severely "brush-burned" for a few days. Your doctor can prescribe or recommend medications to ease any discomfort you may feel. Healing usually happens within seven to 10 days.

Your new skin, which is pink at first, gradually develops a normal color. In most cases, the pinkness largely fades by six to eight weeks. You can use makeup as soon as the skin is healed.

Generally, most people can resume their normal activities in seven to 14 days after dermabrasion. You should avoid sunlight for a few weeks after the pink color has gone away and use sunscreen when outdoors.

After microdermabrasion, your skin will be pink and feel dry and tight (like sunburn or windburn) for about 24 hours. Use moisturizer. Some types of makeup should not be applied for at least 24 hours after the procedure.

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Source: MedicineNet.com
http://www.medicinenet.com/dermabrasion/article.htm