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Dermabrasion is a procedure that involves mechanical abrasion of the epidermis and the upper layers of the dermis. Its purpose is primarily to smooth the skin. This procedure, used in plastic surgery and aesthetic dermatology, is not only a cosmetic procedure, although it was used as such in the past – in the past it was used to remove post-accident scars and post-acne lesions from the skin; Today, however, dermabrasion is also used in the treatment of certain diseases and other skin lesions.
Dermabrasion helps remove liver spots, blemishes, tattoo scars, skin damage and even wrinkles. However, it should be remembered that this treatment is not effective and should not be used against congenital skin defects, pigmented moles, moles and burn scars.
What is the course of dermabrasion?
First, it is necessary to consult a doctor in order to rule out possible contraindications to dermabrasion. The duration of the procedure, of course, depends on what is undergoing it and how serious the problem is. Dermabrasion can therefore take 30 minutes and maybe even two hours.
The procedure is carried out by a doctor – it may be a plastic surgeon, dermatologist or other specialist qualified in this field. Dermabrasion is performed under anesthesia, the type of which is determined by the doctor; generally it is local anesthesia. The treatment site is cleaned, disinfected and cooled. The actual treatment is carried out with the use of a device with a rotating “brush” that removes the epidermis. The epidermis is removed gradually, so it is the doctor’s responsibility to be careful.
At the end of the treatment, a dressing soaked with antibacterial and antiviral agents is applied to the skin to protect sensitive skin; this dressing should be worn for seven to ten days after dermabrasion.
The home method of exfoliating the top layer of the epidermis are peels, e.g. Sylveco cleansing face scrub or enzymatic face scrub.
What should you watch out for after the treatment?
After dermabrasion, the skin will be irritated for several days, generally seven to ten; swelling, redness and bruising may occur. Young, clearly pink skin at first needs several weeks, maximum two months, to fully regenerate and return to its normal color. This does not mean that only then can we resume our daily behavior – a week or two is usually enough. It is essential, however limiting direct contact with sunlight; it should be avoided for 3-6 months after dermabrasion. For this purpose, it is best to use protective filters before each going outside.
Most often, the doctor also introduces other restrictions and sets their duration. These are usually, inter alia, a ban on the use of products with an exfoliating effect, a ban on the use of cosmetics containing AHA fruit acids and a ban on applying makeup on unhealed skin; the use of any lotions and gels should be consulted with a doctor beforehand. For the first two days after dermabrasion, you should also not drink alcohol, and for a week you should not take medications containing ibuprofen or aspirin..
Indications for dermabrasion
Dermabrasion is performed primarily in the case of accident and postoperative scars, acne scars, skin discoloration, liver spots, furrows, wrinkles, stretch marks, cellulite and to remove tattoos. Keep in mind that in the case of deeper scars on the body, a single dermabrasion treatment may not bring a satisfactory effect, and sometimes it is worth repeating the procedure to achieve the desired look.
At home, you can use the SKIN DELIGHT Sensilis revitalizing black peeling, the use of which gives the effect of microdermabrasion. There are also special care devices that can be used to perform microdermabrasion treatments. We recommend, for example, the B-Derma PRO diamond microdermabrasion device. Find out about other Beautifly beauty devices.
Also read: Liver spots – dark spots on the skin. How to prevent them?
Contraindications for dermabrasion
Dermabrasion should not be performed in the case of various skin lesions, the treatment of which with a dermabrasion device could only worsen the patient’s condition. These are mainly: rosacea and maculopapular acne, neoplastic changes, especially when melanoma is suspected, skin birthmarks, seborrhea, bacterial, viral or fungal infections, cuts, active skin inflammations and any skin lesions of unknown origin.
Dermabrasion is also not performed in pregnant women and those during breastfeeding. Contraindication to this treatment are also some diseases, not only dermatological, e.g. unstable diabetes. Dermabrasion is also not available in people treated with immunosuppressants.
Mechanical dermabrasion – possible side effects
Dermabrasion, like any other invasive procedure, is associated with the risk of various side effects. In the case of dermabrasion, these are primarily temporary or permanent changes in skin color, especially skin darkening after too early exposure to sunlight, scars, as well as bacterial and viral infections – irritated skin is particularly susceptible to them. People with a darker complexion are particularly vulnerable to the appearance of scars and discoloration.