If you are like millions of Americans, you enjoy spending time out of doors, soaking up the sun's glorious rays and generally having a wonderful time. Then again, if you are like millions of Americans you are probably beginning to notice signs of less than perfect skin, the result of all that time spend outside in the hot, relentless sun. If you protected your skin with sunscreen then the skin damage is probably not enough to care about but if you neglected to apply often, you might be wishing you had. But have heart because Microdermabrasion is a superbly effective treatment that can restore your skins natural color and feel so you can look your best despite your possible lack of better judgment in the past.

What is Microdermabrasion?

Microdermabrasion is a technique used to resurface your skin through the removal of the dead outer layer of your skin. Using something similar to a fine sandblaster, the surgeon will spread tiny crystals over your skin. A combination of gentle abrasion and suction will allow the dead skin layer to lift and reveal younger, smoother skin below. This new layer is free from both effects of the sun and age. Many people also use this treatment to successfully remove and diminish crows feet and acne scars. The best candidates for microdermabrasion are individuals with acne prone and blotchy skin, small scars, rhytides (wrinkles), keratoses, large pores, milia (non-inflammed whiteheads caused by keratin-clogged pores), or sebaceous hyperplasia.

Microdermabrasion is not recommended for those who have active keloids, undiagnosed lesions, recent herpes outbreaks, warts, active, weeping acne (stages 3-4), active rosacea, unstable diabetes or auto-immune system disorders.

Your treatment will generally take about 30 minutes to one hour depending on how much of the face you wish to treat and the severity of the skin damage. Maximum results typically require from 5 to 12 treatment sessions as well as periodic touch ups to maintain the desired results. For increased effectiveness some patients request a chemical peel be included during the treatment process. A combination of a chemical peel with the Microdermabrasion can improve the final result.

What should I expect to gain from this treatment procedure?

You are probably wondering what the benefits and risks are of Microdermabrasion. The benefits are many and the risks are quite few. For example, with Microdermabrasion you can experience virtually no side effects. You can get the treatment sessions completed during your lunch break because it does not take more than an hour per session. Furthermore, this procedure is effective for all skin types and colors, is safe for skin that is normally sensitive to chemicals, and no anesthetic is required.

However, it is important to recognize the limits of this procedure. For example, people with an already firmer skin tone will benefit more from the treatment than people with severely damaged skin. It is important to remember that multiple sessions are required to achieve satisfactory results, so don't expect a miracle over night. The sessions must be spaced 2 to 3 weeks apart.

Costs and Risks of Microdermabrasion

Although each physician will set his or her own office prices, don't expect to get a cheap deal on this treatment. You should expect to pay anywhere from $75 to $220 per session for this procedure.

Being realistic about your expectations can prevent unnecessary monetary losses. Since this is not an invasive procedure, the risks your skin's health are very low. Generally speaking, patients do not experience scarring or other permanent side effects. You might have some slight soreness or redness that will dissipate over time.