Microdermabrasion in London & UK

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Microdermabrasion is completely non-surgical technique used to remove anomalies on the surface of the skin where they are noticeable or just unwanted.  Many different skin problems can be treated using microdermabrasion, including small scars, changes in skin tone, spots, stretch marks, age spots and wrinkles.  The process is very simple, and can be performed by anyone appropriately trained within a clinic or spa.  The technique involves streaming micro-crystals over your skin, smoothing the skin and knocking off dead cells while also stimulating healthy skin growth.  This is most commonly achieved by applying a wand shaped tool to the skin, gently rubbing the top layer of your skin by the movement of rough particles.  A vacuum is then used to remove any particles and dead skin cells from your skin so they travel in a continuous cycle.  It is a popular treatment, sought by many to help with skin issues and to help them feel refreshed and healthy.  You could almost think of it as a slightly more effective exfoliation method than using creams or rubs yourself. 

What is Microdermabrasion used for?

Microdermabrasion can produce good results for certain people, and although it is suitable for all skin types, it is not a permanent solution for skin problems and so might not be the right treatment for some people.  For example, ongoing acne and deep scars will not be helped by microdermabrasion, and it is important that you have a consultation with your clinic or practitioner before having the treatment to ensure that your skin problem will be helped by the treatment.  Microdermabrasion is not as expensive as cosmetic surgery and is a lot less severe than chemical peels or other skin treatments that are available.  Although the top layer of your skin is removed through this procedure, it carries little risk as the top skin cells are dead and not still developing.  Your skin grows in layers, and removing one, although it sounds quite extreme, is not problematic as this skin was ready to leave your body already.  Skin at deeper levels is a lot more vulnerable, and it is through treating those that scars or other problems can occur.        

What happens during Microdermabrasion treatment?

A normal microdermabrasion treatment will take around half an hour to complete, although for larger areas it will take longer, and you won’t need an anaesthetic or to stay within the clinic long after the treatment.  You will be taken into the treatment room and talked through the procedure.  Your skin will be analysed once again, and then the treatment will start.  The most common form of microdermabrasion is through the use of a wand shaped instrument, which gently blows particles or crystals over your skin.  These are then vacuumed immediately, gently removing your dead skin cells and leaving your skin feeling fresh and rejuvenated.  Diamond microdermabrasion is currently growing in popularity, creating greater choice as to which method you wish to use.  Diamond microdermabrasion is a newer alternative method that doesn’t use crystals but instead removes the dead skin cells through a diamond headed tool.  This can ensure that all areas are reached, including the skin surrounding the eyes and mouth.  The process will not hurt and some people enjoy having the procedure.  You will need a course of treatments to really see the true effect of microdermabrasion, so although you will feel some results after the first session, you ought to wait until all are completed before you judge the result. 

There are few risks associated with microdermabrasion, although you must bear in mind that everyone is different and sometimes accidents can happen. There are certain things that you can do to reduce any risks, such as use a qualified or experienced clinician, avoid microdermabrasion when you are pregnant or when you are experiencing increased hormone levels and to use appropriate aftercare methods such as moisturising and avoiding sunlight or extreme weather conditions.  You will have a consultation before you undergo your treatment in order to determine your skins suitability and whether your expectations of the treatment are viable.  It might be that an alternative skin treatment would be more appropriate for your problem. 

Can Microdermabrasion be carried out at home?

Home-kits are currently gaining in popularity so that you can perform your own microdermabrasion treatments within your own house.  They are a slightly milder form of the clinical treatment, however can help to enliven your skin and make you feel better about yourself.  There are many on the market, with most major skin-care brands offering their own.  Due to the increased risk factor of performing your own treatment, the kits only offer a weakened version of microdermabrasion, a bit like an exfoliation method.  This is unlikely to be effective for scars or wrinkles, but can help to brighten your skin and increase it’s health. 

What are the alternatives to Microdermabrasion?

There are alternatives to having microdermabrasion, such as chemical peels or other skin treatments. Chemical peels work by removing the surface layer of the skin using a combination of chemicals.  This can be viewed as potentially hazardous, and many people don’t wish to treat their skin in such a fashion, however it can also be an effective skin treatment and performs a similar function to microdermabrasion.  Laser treatments can also be used for similar reasons, and although costly, they can have an immediate, long lasting effect on skin problems.  Whether you have microdermabrasion or opt for an alternative skin treatment, you need to be careful of all the risks involved, and ensure that the person who carries out the procedure is properly trained, preferably with qualifications.

Microdermabrasion is a gentle, effective tool to help you re-invigorate your skin and keep it as healthy as possible.  Available in many different clinics or surgeries, it can be adapted to suit your skin by changing the speed of the travelling crystals for crystal microdermabrasion, or by changing the size of the particles or strength of the pressure for diamond microdermabrasion.  Many people have been very happy with the results of microdermabrasion, and continue to use it as a part of their regular skin care routine.  This can be achieved either using gentle home kits, or by visiting a treatment centre on a regular basis.  Whichever you decide to do, it is important that you take care of your skin before and after treatment, follow any expert advice given, be it written in a leaflet or discussed with your practitioner.    

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