Every day there is something new to be learned about microdermabrasion. Every year there are more treatment options including microdermabrasion clinics and home skin exfoliation systems. While most all dermabrasion options have results it is important to be aware of all the options before deciding which one works for you.

Have clearly defined your skin treatments objectives and the results you are looking to get. This will help you to be proactive in looking for the best treatment. If your major concern is oily or sun damaged skin your treatment expectations will be very different from someone who wishes to remove unsightly stretch marks or acne scars.

What to Expect

Microdermabrasion, unlike plastic surgery, is used as a less invasive approach to younger looking skin. The objective of all such treatments is to get younger, fresher looking skin. It has been found to be effective in treating scaly lesions; scars from acne, sun damaged skin and old rough marks in general. It also helps cell renewal.

Prefer to see the doctor?

Obviously, the effectiveness of doctor monitored microdermabrasion treatments is very high. But, if you choose this route, be sure to choose a board certified doctor with a good reputation and many pleased clients. A plastic surgeon or his clinician can complete the skin resurfacing procedure using state-of-the-art equipment. These treatments are generally preferred for severe or sustained skin trauma. The most common kinds of treatments incorporate crystal dermabrasion or diamond dermabrasion. These methods may be used outside the office or clinic but are generally very pricey. This fact has given rise to more over the counter products.

Do it Yourself:

For less severe cases of stains and scaring there are small machines and devises that exfoliate just as effectively as the machines used in clinics but at a fraction of the price. Since they are for home use they are not as powerful as the machines the doctors use.

Other products for home use include microdermabrasion cloths and body sponges. Home microdermabrasion creams designed to exfoliate are also very effective. However, many are prepared for so called normal skin and could cause irritation to sensitive skin like in the case of an active acne outbreak.