Microdermabrasion

Serving Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Microdermabrasion, also called facial rejuvenation literally means wearing down or scrubbing away the microscopic top layer of dead skin cells. This process reveals a newer, cleaner, smoother layer of skin, as well as stimulates the growth of new skin cells. Typical methods used for facial rejuvenation include:

• mechanical abrasion using spurts of zinc oxide or aluminum oxide crystals
• using a roughened surface
• using fine organic particles

The dead skin particles are then removed using an instrument that uses vacuum suction to assure that all of the particles are completely removed.

The exfoliation of the dead skin cells creates a softer, clearer layer of new skin. Most people who undergo microdermabrasion have it on their face and neck area, but you can have it preformed on any part of your body you wish. The back of your hands are another common place which shows signs of aging that microdermabrasion can effectively treat.

Microdermabrasion is a non-invasive, painless treatment with little-to-no downtime.

Conditions it Treats

Facial rejuvenation evens out skin irregularities such as:

• Acne (required periodic retreatment for lasting effectiveness)
• Age spots
• Dark spots on the skin
• Fine lines or wrinkles
• Rough skin texture
• Scars (completely removing them or at least lessening their appearance)
• Stretch marks
• Sun-damaged skin
• Uneven pigmentation

It also shrinks large pores and revives dull skin.

Who Should Have It

This treatment is a great alternative for those who want an "instant" facelift, without having to under surgery or longer recovery times. It also works well in conjunction with chemical peels such as the Obagi Blue Peel, and/or Botox®. It works on all skin tones and types.

Candidates for microdermabrasion should inform Dr. Barber if they are on any medications, particularly Accutane. Also tell us if you have a medical history of cold sores or fever blisters attributable to herpes or shingles.

Preparing for the Treatment

When you are preparing for microdermabrasion, we will ask you to stop using these substances before undergoing the treatment:

• Aspirin or aspirin-containing products
• Cigarettes

Dr. Barber may ask you to use an antiviral drug prior to microdermabrasion in order to prevent you from getting cold sores or fever blisters.

Advantages

The advantages to microdermabrasion are:

• reduced likelihood of excessive skin color changes than with chemical peels
• It is a noninvasive procedure which has essentially no recovery period
• it is equally as effective as similar skin treatments such as chemical peels like the Obagi Blue Peel, or laser skin resurfacing

If you are interested in having a skin resurfacing treatment, such as microdermabrasion to give you newer, healthier skin, please call or email our office to schedule a personal consultation with Dr. Barber.