The sensible frequency of microdermabrasion treatment sessions will vary depending on a number of factors including: skin type, skin complaint, what you can afford and what result you want. I think it would be wise to have a consultation with a dermatologist before beginning treatment, so you have some idea of the severity of your skin condition, whether microdermabrasion is the best remedy and what improvement you can reasonably expect. There may be less invasive treatments that could treat the problem more gently, cost less and with better results. The theory behind this treatment is that in exfoliating the top layer of skin you will get rid of dry areas, uneven pigmentation and lessen wrinkles. By causing an injury to the skin, it will begin to repair, by sending new collagen to the area and this will improve skin texture. How well it works is a much debated question; some people are delighted by the results and others have reported further problems after treatment. In terms of frequency and number of sessions, this is a guide:
Mild Skin Concerns:
These would include wanting to improve lines on the face, particularly those typically caused by sun-exposure and smoothing an uneven skin texture.
The exfoliation itself should help both these, to some extent, as you are removing dead skin patches that can clump in areas which become dull and give an uneven appearance. Depending on the criteria mentioned, including your skin sensitivity, age, medications being taken etc.. it is usually done about once every six weeks. Skin turns over about every 30 days if you are under 30 and about every 60 days if you are north of 65, so the younger you are, the less frequently this should be necessary.
Moderate Skin Concerns:
I would consider the following to be moderate skin concerns: melasma, mild acne scarring and other superficial scarring, a very dull appearance to skin. These could be performed every month - again, depending on age etc.
Significant Cosmetic Skin Concerns:
Having a considerable amount of melasma, scarring from acne or other similar infections that have left the skin surface bumpy and uneven and widespread discolouration. It's important to note that the frequency of sessions should be determined by the skin's tolerance and recovery time too. Over-exfoliating or undergoing treatments too frequently can potentially irritate or damage the skin further.
While it can offer several benefits for the skin, there are some arguments against using it:
Skin Sensitivity: Individuals with sensitive skin may find it too harsh or irritating. The mechanical exfoliation involved in the treatment can cause redness, inflammation, or discomfort, particularly for those with sensitive or easily irritated skin.
Active Acne or Inflammatory Skin Conditions: It can potentially worsen active acne or other inflammatory skin conditions. The exfoliation process may aggravate existing inflammation, causing further irritation or breakouts. It's generally advised to avoid it if you have conditions such as rosacea or eczema.
It's important to note that the degree of improvement may vary depending on individual factors such as skin type, severity of the condition, and the number of microdermabrasion treatments received. Additionally, while microdermabrasion can provide visible improvements, it may not be as effective for deep wrinkles or significant skin laxity.
Recent Sunburn or Skin Damage: If you have recently experienced sunburn, or any other significant skin injury, it's important to allow the skin to heal fully before undergoing microdermabrasion treatment. It can be too harsh for compromised or damaged skin and may prolong the healing process.
Certain Medical Conditions or Medications: Some conditions or medications may contraindicate microdermabrasion. A history of skin cancer, certain autoimmune diseases, or if you are taking medications that affect skin sensitivity or healing, microdermabrasion probably isn’t recommended. It's important to disclose your medical history and any medications you are taking to the dermatologist before starting any treatment.
Expectations and Risks: Have realistic expectations, it is generally considered a safe procedure, but there is still a risk of adverse effects, such as skin irritation, redness, or temporary changes in skin pigmentation. Additionally, the results may vary, and it may not address your specific skin problem as effectively as other treatments or modalities.
Studies and Trials: There have been studies carried out that show good results and happy customers. A study published in the Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy assessed the results on texture, and pigmentations - both were significantly improved after a series of microdermabrasion treatments.
Another study, in the Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology evaluated the effects in patients with acne. The researchers found that when combined with with topical acne medication, there was a significant reduction in acne lesions and an overall improvement to skin’s appearance.
Overall, it seems to have best effects when used for relatively minor cosmetic skin complaints, especially acne scars, superficial melasma (this will almost always run deeper down in the skin, so a number of sessions will be necessary, until all the melanin in the skin layers have reached the surface and been removed). It certainly has helped some conditions and produced satisfied customers. It seems to work best when used with topical treatments such as creams and serums as enhances the absorption of skincare products, so their effectiveness is increased.
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