Microdermabrasion is a minimally invasive, superficial resurfacing procedure designed to manually abrade the skin. Microdermabrasion may increase epidermal thickness, decrease epidermal pigment production and potentially affect upper dermal collagen matrix remodeling.

Complications of microdermabrasion are infrequent and generally mild.

Indications for microdermabrasion include:

• Irregular skin pigmentation (dyschromia)
• Fine lines and wrinkles
• Superficial scarring including acne scarring
• Superficial texture irregularities
• Acne
• Photoaging (sun-related skin aging)

Microdermabrasion is contraindicated in patients with an active infection (bacterial or viral) within the treatment area.

Microdermabrasion is generally performed as a series of treatments approximately 3 to 4 weeks apart. Depending on the condition being treated, roughly 4 to 8 treatment sessions may be recommended. Optimal results may not be achieved until several treatments have been completed. Periodic “maintenance” treatments may be needed after the initial series. Some degree of redness is commonly seen with each treatment and redness usually lasts for up to two days.

Deeper problems, such as severe wrinkles, are unlikely to be substantially improved. Patients should discontinue topical retinoids and alpha-hydroxyacid containing products at least 3 days prior to each treatment. Topical retinoids and alpha-hydroxyacids can be resumed once the erythema and any perceived sensation of skin irritation have subsided.

Patients with a positive history of herpes simplex virus (HSV, herpes labialis) may require antiviral prophylaxis.

Patients with a positive history of herpes simplex virus (HSV, herpes labialis) may require antiviral prophylaxis.

Forms:

microdermabrasion_consent_form (PDF)

PRE-TREATMENT INSTRUCTIONS

• Do not take isotretinoin (Accutane) for one month before your treatment. Do not take Oracea, Doxycycline or topical retinoids (Renova, Retin-A, Atralin, Ziana, Refissa, Tazorac, Differin) for one week prior to treatment.
• Do not apply makeup or lotions on the day of your treatment, or be prepared to remove them at our office.
• If you have a history of cold sores (herpes simplex virus, HSV, herpes labialis), take your medication (e.g., Valtrex, Famvir, Zovirax) as prescribed.
• Inform us before each treatment session if you
  • take any new medications
  • developed allergies to new medications
  • have beauty marks that you do not want treated
• Inform us immediately if the area being treated feels hot, painful or burning.

POST-TREATMENT INSTRUCTIONS

For a few hours after treatment, you may experience redness, slight swelling and a “sunburned” feeling.

To achieve the best results and minimize the risk of complications:

• Apply non-comedogenic moisturizer (CeraVe, Cetaphil) at least 2 times a day or as often as needed when your skin feels dry.
• If you plan to be outdoors, driving or in close proximity to windows, apply sunscreen with SPF of 30 and higher. Avoid prolonged sun exposure between 10 AM and 3 PM.
• In caring for the treated areas, use a gentle soapless cleanser like CeraVe, Cetaphil until healing is complete. Avoid scrubbing or using a washcloth.
• DO NOT PICK OR PEEL OR SCRATCH the treated area as permanent scarring may result.
• Do not undergo any other treatments in the same area for at least 14 days after the microdermabrasion treatment.
• You may apply cosmetics a day after microdermabrasion treatment unless a blister or a superficial ulcer develops.   If a blister, a superficial ulceration or a scab develops, apply an antibiotic ointment, Bactroban, until the blister dries or new skin forms. Do not pick the blister or a scab because a scar may form.
• Restart topical retinoids 7 days after the microdermabrasion treatment.
• Ice packs and cool compresses can help to reduce post-procedural discomfort and swelling.
• To limit post-peel swelling, sleep on your back with your head elevated on a few pillows for the first few nights.

Call our office 646-759-8449 if any problems, questions, or concerns arise.