Microdermabrasion

Washington, D.C.

To keep your skin its healthiest, it is best to get periodic deep cleanings. Deep cleanings of the skin involve removing the outer dead layers of skin to expose the fresher, living skin below. This is known as exfoliation. At the Washington Institute of Dermatologic Laser Surgery, we offer many methods of exfoliation, including microdermabrasion. Microdermabrasion is a good treatment for acne-prone individuals, those who desire a deep cleaning for healthy skin, and people with dull-looking skin.

If you are interested in learning more about microdermabrasion or other exfoliation methods, please schedule a skin care consultation with our cosmetic dermatologists today.

What Is Microdermabrasion?

Microdermabrasion removes skin by buffing it with a stream of fine crystals. Air pressure drives the crystals at the skin at a very high velocity, and the same pressure creates a vacuum that draws the crystals away. The process will remove a very thin layer of skin, less than a thousandth of an inch thick. This outer layer consists of dead skin that has lost the luster of living tissue and has suffered damage from the sun and other exposure. It also contains contaminants, pollutants, and dirt that clog pores and damage skin.

Microdermabrasion Procedure and Results

Microdermabrasion is sometimes known as a "lunchtime peel" because it is a very quick procedure.  It takes less than an hour, so it can usually be fit into a long lunch hour. And because it is minimally invasive you can go back to work right away with your skin looking healthy and glowing, but not red or irritated.  The visible benefit of microdermabrasion is immediate.

Acne and skin dullness can be reduced with microdermabrasion. Some people see a reduction in skin discoloration, fine wrinkling, and scaly skin after a regular treatment program.

Some of the benefits of microdermabrasion are not visible, though. Microdermabrasion prepares your skin to receive topical nutrients, and combining the procedure with a recommended skin care regimen can deepen and lengthen the results you see from microdermabrasion. The results from microdermabrasion are also improved by pretreatment with GentleWaves LED, which stimulates deep skin layers into greater activity before microdermabrasion exposes them.

Microdermabrasion Treatment Alternatives

Although some people see great results from microdermabrasion, other people's skin responds better to chemical peels. We offer peels of many different strengths, including minimally-invasive ones that can leave your skin immediately fresher-looking.

Some people also need targeted solutions for their specific skin condition. People looking for treatment of blotchy skin might see better results with intense pulsed light (IPL) treatment.

Some skin conditions might require a more invasive treatment to see good results, including laser skin resurfacing or Fraxel Laser Treatment.

To talk about microdermabrasion or other skin rejuvenation treatments, please schedule a facial rejuvenation consultation at the Washington Institute of Dermatologic Laser Surgery today.