Microdermabrasion is a very common skin care procedure, however, there are people who aren't sure about what it means or how it works. So for those people that would like to know about this type of skin treatment, here's a general review to get them started.

Microdermabrasion is a general term for the application of micro crystals to "sand off" the outer surface of the skin. There are a variety of different products that are used to remove the outer most layer of skin. Aluminum oxide is the most common, but sodium bicarbonate, sodium chloride and magnesium oxide are also used to perform microdermabrasion.

This type of procedure can be performed in a doctor's office or in a spa and does not require anesthesia or much time for recovery. As a matter of fact, it is often referred to as the "instant face lift" or the "lunchtime facelift".

Benefits of Microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion is not just a simple skin exfoliation. It actually performs a very important service for your skin. By removing the outer layer of the epidermis this treatment can help your skin absorb moisture in readily.

You probably thought that your skin was absorbing 100% of the moisture it was coming in contact with, but the fact is that the stratum corneum blocks the passage of all molecules except for the extremely small ones. Since microdermabrasion removes the stratum corneum, it allows for a more effective absorption of moisture and skin care products.

Another benefit of microdermabrasion is the removal of fine lines and blemishes. The stratum corneum is where most of these minor imperfections lie. Once again, the removal of this layer through microdermabrasion can improve the appearance of the skin.

At Home Alternatives & Microdermabrasion

Recently, at home microdermabrasion systems have come on the market. These products are more gentle than regular microdermabrasion, but just as effective. If you have sensitive skin, you may want to try this option before spending money on a professional microdermabrasion treatment.

Precautions related to Microdermabrasion

One of the biggest problems to consider before undergoing this type of treatment is that this procedure is abrasive and can cause problems for people with sensitive or dry skin. People this type of skin should ask the technician to use sodium bicarbonate instead of other abrasives. This product is more gentle than the other alternatives.

Another important issue to consider is that certain skin conditions should not be treated with microdermabrasion. For example, if you have eczema and dermatitis you should avoid using this procedure. Ask your doctor about other alternatives.

Other conditions that should not be treated with microdermasion are:

*Active rosacea

*Fragile capillaries and vascular lesions

*Severe acne and widespread acne

*Warts, herpes, open sores, and skin lesions

*Psoriasis

Check with your doctor about other skin conditions that may not be suited for this type of treatment.