It should not be confused with microdermabrasion, which also helps to smooth out the skin’s appearance but is not nearly as invasive or permanent as dermabrasion.

Put simply, dermabrasion is the use of a hand-held wire brush or sanding wheel to resurface the skin with the help of millions of tiny diamond or aluminum particles. It is essentially a controlled, surgical scraping which softens the sharper edges of irregularities on the surface of the skin. There are several pros and cons to using this method.

Start With the Right Specialist

There are many responsible, experienced and educated dermatologists and nurses who can safely provide the service. However, there are also many parties who advertise the ability to provide the service, but are not fully trained to use the equipment or provide the right facilities.

Beware of advertisers who do not, upon closer examination, have the qualifications to perform the operation in a sterile setting. Be sure to get references from prior patients who have undergone the procedure from any particular facility.

When Dermabrasion Might Not be the Best Option

Though dermabrasion can be much more permanent and effective for those who have deep acne scars, pitting, chicken pox scars and discolorations when compared to other procedures, it’s not a good idea to use if the irregularities are still in progress. For example, if the patient is still in the throes of a heavy acne breakout, or has ever had radiation treatments, the doctor or practitioner should definitely advise an alternative procedure or a delay. Not doing so greatly increases the risk of infection or further irregularities.

Also, while dermabrasion can greatly reduce the appearance of scars and their sharp surfaces, it may not completely get rid of the contrast entirely. A good practitioner will be able to recommend an alternative treatment (such as a chemical peel), which might go deeper into the skin layers and provide better results.

Cold sores should also give a patient and practitioner cause for thought about providing the service, and current use of certain drugs might preclude the use of dermabrasion. Age and the condition of the skin can also be a consideration. Older skin does not heal as quickly or as evenly as younger skin, and should be taken into account.

Additionally, this treatment makes the skin red in appearance for up to two weeks, and requires vigilant use of topical ointments and gels to keep infection from setting in. It is also not pain-free; topical and oral pain medications may need to be taken before and after the procedure. A patient will likely have to take a couple of weeks off work, depending on their comfort level pertaining to the appearance of their face.

When Dermabrasion Can be a Good Option

Flexibility is one of the benefits of this surgery. It can be used in conjunction with other cosmetic procedures such as a facelift, scar removal or a chemical peel on other parts of the face or neck. A skilled provider of these cosmetic services will be able to recommend exactly which procedures can be used together, if needed.

Opinions differ, depending on the severity of the skin problem, but many dermatologists recommend dermabrasion over a chemical peel for those who have darker complexions. The consensus among those who do recommend it is that dermabrasion provides more even and controlled results, lessening the possibility of color unevenness.

A procedure can be done in an outpatient office, and usually takes from 15 minutes to an hour depending on the amount of work needed. Unlike microdermabrasion, deeper dermabrasion will probably require a spray or injected anesthetic, minimizing any pain or discomfort.

Though dermabrasion is a more expensive cosmetic surgery than microdermabrasion or deep facials, the benefit is that it is more permanent. Learn more about cosmetic procedures including laser hair removal, at DocShop.com.