Considering Dermabrasion? Read This First!
Interested in reducing acne-related scarring, smoothing fine lines and wrinkles, or eliminating pigmentation related issues to even your skin tone? Each year many men and women turn to dermabrasion to renew their skin.
What is dermabrasion?
Dermabrasion is a controlled surgical method of removing the uppermost skin layers which triggers the growth of new youthful looking skin. Dermatologists basically “sand” the top dermal layer using a rapidly spinning diamond wheel or wire brush to level (or plane) the skin. Dermabrasion can be performed on the entire face or on specific targeted areas of the skin.
Dermabrasion is often utilized to treat:
- Flat or superficial acne scars (deep or “pitted” acne scars may require other treatments like fillers or laser treatments, in addition to dermabrasion)
- Other facial scarring from previous surgery or injury
- Fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes and mouth
- Skin pigmentation like age spots (especially when combined with other skin lightening treatments)
- Various superficial growths that appear on the face
Alternatives to dermabrasion
There are some other treatment options available with similar skin rejuvenation outcomes as dermabrasion. Some of these include:
- Microdermabrasion: A less intense method of removing the top layer, microdermabrasion produces a “light peel” effect which can improve many of the same issues that dermabrasion addresses without the downtime or risks. We use DiamondTome which gently exfoliates without causing any irritation.
- Chemical Peels: Topically applied chemical formulas that produce a controlled shedding of the skin. The peeling cycle varies with the different chemical peels that we offer. You can discuss this with your provider to customize the correct peel for you and your skin.
- Laser Skin Resurfacing: Advanced technological improvements have yielded a variety of laser skin resurfacing treatments. Treatments like Fraxel or Clear+Brilliant removes top skin layers with extreme precision and patients have little to no down time. The Fraxel treatment has two different wavelengths, the dual fraxel works on pigment as well as deep lines and wrinkles for ultimate skin rejuvenation. This is also, the only laser FDA approved for acne scarring. The Clear and Brilliant is a milder treatment that can be done every week. After this procedure you are only red for about an hour. This is a great maintenance procedure.
Erin Foster is a licensed aesthetician experienced in analyzing and determining which treatments are best for each individual client’s needs. She has diverse knowledge in skin care products and ingredients. Erin specializes in laser hair removal, IPL, V-Beam, chemical peels, HydraFacials, Cooltouch, and microdermabrasion.
Chemical peels might help right?
Hi Madridistas, depending on your current issues and desired results chemical peels may be a great alternative treatment. Please let us know if you would like to come in for an appointment. We can work with you to find the best treatment give your unique needs!
Hi. I have brown spots all over my face. What is the best method to use to help lighten them up?
Hi Ruby, it’s nearly impossible to recommend a treatment without seeing you in person. As such, we would recommend setting up an appointment with an experienced dermatologist. That is definitely the best course of action.
However, we do have a great resource on hyperpigmenation here: https://www.westlakedermatology.com/blog/best-hyperpigmentation-treatment-plan/
Thanks for reading our blog,
–WD Staff
I would like to smith skin texture on arms, neck, chest and face. I think my arms with need dermabrasion. Please advise.
Hi Rebecca,
You’ve come to the right place! Dermabrasion may be a good option for you but an in-person assessment would be needed to verify that it is the best course of treatment. Like this article states, there are several other treatment options that may be better in terms of safety and efficacy.
Please give us a call at 512-328-3376 to setup a consultation. We’ll assess your needs and develop the best treatment plan to create your desired results!
Thanks for reading our post!
-WD Staff