Skin Polishing

Indications

Method

Crystal Microdermabrasion

It is a non-invasive procedure that uses the principle of friction to sand away the top layer of the skin. The hand held device uses aluminum oxide crystals that are sprayed onto the skin at high speed. Simultaneously, an attached vacuum sucks away the dirt and dead skin.

Pros

• Very little downtime required (24 hours).
• Results visible almost immediately after the procedure.
• Permanently removes scars and marks in a few sittings.
• Good for acne reduction as the crystals have antibacterial qualities.
• The crystals can access wrinkles, and the lines near your nose and mouth because of their irregular shape.
• Aluminum Oxide that is used in the crystals is inert, hence non-toxic, non-carcinogenic and will not cause any allergies or adverse reactions.
• Crystal dermabrasion can be more effective for older skins with sun damage that need treatment.

Cons

• It may be too strong a treatment for younger or sensitive skins.
• The skin can be sensitive to the sun for a few weeks.
• Slight redness of the skin can occur, however, that fades away in a few hours.
• The spray can be hard to control in the hands of someone less experienced.
• Skin may feel sensitive to the touch.

Aftercare

• Use a strong sunscreen with high SPF, if you have to step out.
• Use hypoallergenic products that nourish and moisturize your skin.
• Avoid colour cosmetics on the skin if the treatment has been done on the face.
• Avoid using anti-acne creams and lotions on the face.
• Stay hydrated and drink plenty of water.
• Avoid touching your skin and body heating exercises like a sauna or a hot shower.

Diamond Microdermabrasion

Here, a handpiece with a diamond-tip is used to exfoliate the skin very gently. It simultaneously uses a suction method to suck in the dead skin and dirt it exfoliates. This method is used for sensitive areas with thin skin — the under-eye region and the surrounding areas.

Pros

• Preferred by skincare professionals as it gives them more control for better results.
• No chance of any particle getting inhaled or irritating the eyes.
• Diamonds being the hardest substance found, they can be most effective for dermabrasion.
• Gives the professional more control for better treatment over delicate areas near the eyes and mouth.
• Effective on sensitive skin and does deeper exfoliation.
• Ideal for younger, firmer skins, especially if you need glowing skin for your wedding or a big occasion.

Cons

• Fixed and rigid shape makes it difficult to reach every part of the face.
• Build-up of dead skin particles on the wand’s tip may increase risk of bacterial infections.
• Can be less effective on skin with wrinkles and lines as the wand doesn’t have crystals that can fit into the crevices and irregularities on the skin’s surface.

Aftercare

• Avoid applying any topical creams — medicated or cosmetic.
• Use sunscreen with a high SPF.
• Avoid applying make-up for a few days.
• Stay away from hot showers or saunas; steam rooms or exercise — anything that increases your body temperature — for at least 24-48 hours.
• Drink a lot of water and don’t touch your skin.

Post Procedural Care

You must follow your doctor’s instructions well after the treatment is over. Try your best not to expose your skin to direct sunlight. If stepping out in the sun is unavoidable, apply a large amount sunscreen lotion with an SPF of at least 15. Make appointments with your dermatologist and get at least 4 sessions of skin polishing treatment done to see visible results.