Microdermabrasion

If you’re like most people, there’s probably some aspect of your skin you’d like to improve. Perhaps years of sun damage have left you with uneven skin tone and texture, or premature aging is making you feel self-conscious about your appearance or holding you back from opportunities. You may have assumed painful or invasive procedures were the only way to resolve these concerns, but fortunately, that isn’t the case. A procedure called microdermabrasion is a quick way to look younger with no downtime.

What Is Microdermabrasion?

Microdermabrasion is a non-surgical, non-chemical facial rejuvenation treatment that makes the skin noticeably smoother by exfoliating dull, dead layers of skin. It is one of the most in-demand cosmetic procedures performed in the U.S. today.

Another advantage of microdermabrasion is that treatments can help you improve the results gained from using anti-aging products. Microdermabrasion allows these topical creams, lotions, and serums to penetrate the skin more easily.

Microdermabrasion is also a way to rebuild collagen, which is a structural protein in the body that keeps our skin firm and taut. During the natural aging process, the body begins to produce less collagen, which is one of the reasons we start to develop the wrinkles and sagging that characterize the aging process.

Benefits of Microdermabrasion

The skin resurfacing technique of microdermabrasion is effective in improving the appearance of:

  • Dull skin
  • Coarse skin texture
  • Fine lines and wrinkles
  • Uneven skin tone
  • Large pores
  • Blackheads
  • Hyperpigmentation, such as age spots, sunspots, melasma, and patches of darkened skin
  • Sun damage
  • Scars, including acne scars and surgical scars

After microdermabrasion, your skin will feel and look softer, smoother, younger, healthier, and brighter. Microdermabrasion is primarily for your face, but it is a skin rejuvenation procedure that can also treat other areas of the body that may contain scars, sun damage, or hyperpigmentation.

Like a procedure called dermabrasion, microdermabrasion was developed in Italy in 1985 and became available in the U.S. in 1998. Most experts agree it is safer than dermabrasion.

Preparing for Your Microdermabrasion

To determine if you are a good candidate for microdermabrasion, Dr. Matarasso will examine your skin quality and ask about the skin issues you are hoping to address. Based on this conversation, you may find a different cosmetic treatment is more appropriate.

Before having microdermabrasion, please tell us about your medical history and any medicines you take – including any vitamin supplements or herbal remedies. If your skin scars easily or is prone to breakouts, please let us know ahead of time.

What to Expect From Microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion is not a laser procedure. We perform this in-office treatment with a handheld device that gently exfoliates the top layers of skin, exposing the new cells underneath for a fresher look. The device also provides a light suction action that aids in the removal of the cells on the surface on the skin.

It feels like a slight scratching or sanding on your skin, but it is not generally painful. Because it only acts on the superficial layers of your skin, the procedure is mild enough to not require any anesthetic. The device we use in our office relies on aluminum oxide crystals for exfoliation.

Each treatment usually takes about a half-hour, and the results should last for approximately a month. If you wish, you can schedule follow-up treatments to keep your skin looking youthful. Many people achieve the best outcomes from planning a series of microdermabrasion appointments, spaced out over several months.

Recovering From Microdermabrasion

Since microdermabrasion is a minimally invasive procedure, no recovery period or downtime is necessary. You can return home or work immediately after your treatment.

When performed by a qualified specialist in a dermatology office, microdermabrasion carries little to no risk of side effects. You may, however, find that your skin becomes slightly red or flaky in the first few days after microdermabrasion, akin to having a mild sunburn. This effect is short-lived and will resolve on its own.

Be sure to keep treated skin moisturized, and always wear sunblock when you are outside. We will send you home with specific instructions on how to care for your skin to speed the healing process and ease any discomfort.

Call Today to Schedule Your Appointment

Microdermabrasion is an excellent treatment to rejuvenate and revitalize the skin.

Contact our office at (415) 362-2238 to find out more about microdermabrasion in San Francisco. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Matarasso leads a team of medical professionals who are dedicated to providing the highest standards of patient comfort and care.

Proven Benefits of Microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion is a highly effective procedure for improving your overall skin health. Over time, dead skin cells, oil, and environmental pollutants build up on the skin’s surface, leading to a dull, tired-looking complexion. By removing these impurities, you can reveal the fresh, healthy skin underneath and restore a clearer, brighter appearance.

If you’re looking for ways to keep your skin looking and feeling youthful, consider these advantages of microdermabrasion.

  • Stimulates the skin’s natural collagen production to restore elasticity
  • Unclogs pores, reducing acne breakouts
  • Reverses signs of premature aging, such as sun damage, fine lines, and wrinkles
  • Promotes even skin tone and texture while reducing hyperpigmentation

Your Microdermabrasion Consultation

Your first step to excellent microdermabrasion results you’ll love is to schedule a consultation with an experienced dermatologist. During this private, one-on-one meeting, your dermatologist will examine your skin quality and your degree of aging.

To ensure you get the most out of your consultation, come prepared with a list of questions to ask your doctor, including:

  • How many treatments will I need to see my desired results?
  • Do you recommend any other minimally invasive procedures to further enhance my appearance?
  • How much does microdermabrasion cost in San Francisco?
  • What should I do to prepare for my microdermabrasion appointments?

What to Expect During and After Microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion relies on a specialized tool to exfoliate the skin. After preparing your skin to remove any makeup and excess oil, your provider will move this handpiece across your skin’s surface in single, smooth passes, one section at a time.

After treatment, your skin will likely be slightly pink, as if you have a mild sunburn. You may also notice some flaking. Keep the treated area moisturized, and apply sunscreen liberally before going outdoors, since microdermabrasion can increase your skin’s photosensitivity.

You should notice your skin feels softer, smoother, and more rejuvenated after getting microdermabrasion. For more dramatic results, you might choose to have your treatment performed in conjunction with one or more of the other nonsurgical cosmetic procedures we offer.

Are You a Good Candidate for Microdermabrasion?

Ideally, people who seek microdermabrasion should be in good overall health, with mild to moderate skin imperfections like acne and acne scarring, fine lines, and uneven pigmentation. If your concerns are more advanced, such as sagging skin along your neck and jawline, you may be a better candidate for a different treatment, such as Ulthera®. We also don’t recommend microdermabrasion if you scar easily, have any open skin lesions or skin cancer, or are pregnant or nursing.

Before getting microdermabrasion, you must tell your dermatologist about your health history and any medications you regularly take, including over-the-counter drugs and all vitamins, minerals, and herbal remedies.

Microdermabrasion in San Francisco – FAQs

How often can I get microdermabrasion?

Since your skin cells typically turn over at approximately 30-day intervals, microdermabrasion results are temporary. For ongoing improvement, we might recommend a series of six to 12 sessions spaced two to four weeks apart.

Are there any risks or side effects of microdermabrasion?

Microdermabrasion has minimal risks when performed by a board-certified dermatologist. Because it is such a gentle, minimally invasive procedure, there is no need for anesthesia or downtime. Immediately afterward, you can apply makeup as desired and resume any typical daily activities. Microdermabrasion is an ideal treatment for people with busy schedules who want a quick skin care solution they can fit in on their lunch break.

What does microdermabrasion feel like? Does it hurt?

Microdermabrasion shouldn’t be painful. Your comfort and safety are our priorities, so always communicate with your provider during your appointment. They can adjust their technique as necessary if you experience any pain or distress.

How much does microdermabrasion cost in San Francisco?

The total cost of your skin improvements will vary, depending on how many microdermabrasion sessions you need to see your desired results and whether you plan to add any complementary procedures, such as dermal fillers or a chemical peel, to your treatment plan. We can give you a more accurate cost estimate when you come in for your personalized consultation.

Schedule Your Microdermabrasion Consultation

While microdermabrasion is available at many salons and day spas, you’ll get the best and safest results by trusting your skin to a qualified dermatologist. If you’re ready to learn more about microdermabrasion, the team at the Dermatology Medical Group of San Francisco is ready to help you look and feel your best without surgery or downtime. Contact us today to learn more.