What is Micro-dermabrasion?

Micro-dermabrasion is a safe, gentle, yet effective means of improving the texture, tone and appearance of the skin.

It is a non-surgical, non-invasive technique, whereby a stream of micro crystals is gently passed over the skin via a small suction handpiece. This removes dry flaky skin cells from the skin’s surface, leaving it smooth and fresh. Additionally, the circulation to the skin beneath is stimulated - thereby replacing older skin with fresh, younger cells.

Research has shown that repetitive treatments can thus promote new collagen growth and cell renewal, creating a healthy skin surface with improved elasticity, texture, colour and overall appearance. Many patients report that their complexion looks smoother, softer and more youthful.

Does it hurt?

Treatment is fast and there is little, if any, discomfort. No anaesthesia is required and most treatments last about 30 minutes. There is no discomfort after the treatment.

Do I need to take time off work?

Mild pinkness/redness may follow the procedure, but normal activities can usually be resumed shortly afterwards with virtually no downtime. Make-up can be used immediately if desired and any redness usually fades in one to two days.

What conditions can it treat?

Micro-dermabrasion can act to:

• Enhance poor, dull or rough skin texture.
• Help restore skin luminosity which has been lost by aging and sun damage.
• Give skin a healthy 'glow.'
• Improve some pigment changes or discolouration.
• Improve fine wrinkling, especially in combination with other anti-wrinkle treatments.
• Minimise enlarged pores.
• Help to clear acne by exfoliating and clearing blocked pores. The appearance of mild acne scarring can also be improved.

How many treatments are needed?

On average 6 treatments spaced 1-2 weeks apart are required to achieve the best results. Maintenance treatments may later be performed at 3-6 monthly intervals if desired.

How can I accelerate the results?

Faster results can be achieved by adding high doses of topical vitamins A and C immediately after micro-dermabrasion, and also at home between treatments.

Results can also be enhanced by the addition of the ‘Benefit’ Treatment.

Is the treatment suitable for everybody?

All skin types (including dark skin) are suitable for Micro-dermabrasion treatment.

There are relatively few contra-indications, apart from recent cold sores and use of Roaccutane in the previous 6 months. Care is also taken with diabetics and rosacea sufferers.

Can it be used in combination with other skin treatments?

Micro-dermabrasion can be used alone or also as an adjunctive therapy to accelerate or maintain other skin renewal modalities, such as laser/IPL therapy and mild skin peels. It also works well in conjunction with certain anti-wrinkle injections, such as those for ‘crow’s feet’ around the eyes.

In the case of active acne, it can be combined with other medical therapies, light-based treatments and skin care programmes.