Micro-dermabrasion is a relatively new technique to resurface and smooth the skin. You do not need weeks to recover as with derma-abrasion, chemical peels or laser surgery. It is faster, cheaper and requires no anaesthetic which means that you can even have the treatment during your lunch hour and return to work afterwards. Makeup can be applied immediately following treatment, meaning absolutely no 'downtime'It is totally different to the old style dermabrasion which involved using a rotating disc or frize with an abrasive like surface to remove the outer layer of the skin. This technique is rarely used today because of the risk of infection to the operator and the high degree of skill required to get a satisfactory result.

Micro-dermabrasion uses an entirely different principle. The machine is firstly a cleansing device using a principal no different to a vacuum cleaner to clean the skin and empty out the blocked pores with a gentle vacuuming action. This is quite comfortable and can be done without anaesthesia. When the treatment is completed the skin has a red healthy glow due to the increased circulation in the skin. This increased circulation brings with it oxygen and nutrients to refresh and regenerate the skin.

In the second phase of the treatment a fine jet of aluminum oxide crystals are sprayed on the skin. This has the effect of gently smoothing the skin surface and removing the outer layer of dead skin cells. With repeated treatments this results in a permanent reduction of skin surface irregularities.

At the completion of treatment, the treated area is red due to the increased circulation. This can be covered with make-up and usually fades within one to two days. There is no problem with returning to work and no discomfort after the treatment.

Micro-dermabrasion can be used to treat any form of scar virtually anywhere on the body. There is no risk of increased pigmentation as can occur with Laser resurfacing and no "down-time"

The main areas of use are in the treatment of acne, both acute acne and acne scars, open pores on the face, surgical scars, any raised scar, even Keloid scars. There are no specific contraindications to Micro-dermabrasion.

It is usually necessary to have multiple treatments over a period of time. Most cases require about ten treatments but severe acne and acne scars may require more. Treatments are usually done weekly. The treatments may take up to half an hour. With conditions such as acne it may be necessary to combine Micro-dermabrasion with other medical therapies and skin care programs to ensure more rapid results. Your Doctor will advise you if this is necessary.

In summary, Micro-dermabrasion is a safe, effective outpatient treatment for active acne and scars of any sort on any part of the body.

Skin benefits
• Exfoliates and removes dead skin cells
• Smooths and improves skin texture and colour
• Gives skin a luminous glow
• Improves appearance of wrinkles
• Stimulates collagen production
• Promotes the growth of healthy new cells
• Ideal as a quick skin pick-me-up