DERMABRASION

OVERVIEW OF DERMABRASION

Dermabrasion is an exfoliating technique that uses a rotating instrument to remove the outer layers of skin, usually on the face. This treatment is popular with people who wish to improve the appearance of their skin. Dermabrasion is a type of surgical skin planing, typically performed in a professional medical setting by a dermatologist or plastic surgeon trained specifically in this procedure. Dermabrasion has been practiced for many years (before the advent of lasers) and involves the controlled deeper abrasion (wearing away) of the upper to mid-layers of the skin with any variety of strong abrasive devices including a wire brush, diamond wheel or fraise, sterilized sandpaper, salt crystals, or other mechanical means. Dermabrasion should not be confused with microdermabrasion which is a newer and non-surgical cosmetic procedure performed by non-physician personnel, nurses, estheticians, medical assistants.

What are the reasons for getting dermabrasion?

Dermabrasion removes damaged outer layers of skin. This exposes new layers of skin that appear younger and smoother.

In addition to providing a more youthful appearance, dermabrasion can also help treat:

Acne scars
Age spots
Fine wrinkles
Rhinophyma, or redness and thick skin on the nose
Scars from surgery or injury
Sun damage
Uneven skin tone

Dermabrasion is only one of many treatments for these conditions. For instance, advances in laser technology make laser tattoo removal quicker and easier. Talk to your dermatologist about all of the treatment options for your specific condition. Some skin conditions may prevent your doctor from performing dermabrasion, including inflammatory acne, recurrent herpes flare-ups, radiation burns, or burn scars. You may also be unable to receive dermabrasion if you’ve taken medications with a skin-thinning side effect. And your doctor may not recommend dermabrasion if your skin tone is naturally very dark.