What is the Best Way to Care for My Skin Following a Microdermabrasion Treatment?

Microdermabrasion is a highly effective way to remove diseased, damaged and/or dead skin from your face. It is primarily used to treat sun-damaged skin, age spots, wrinkles, enlarged pores, acne, acne scars, fine lines, hyperpigmentation, stretch marks, black heads, discoloration and mild scarring. This type of cosmetic treatment not only gives your skin a glow, it also provides you with a youthful, polished appearance. A handheld device or a diamond-tipped wand is used to perform the treatment. Microdermabrasion can be performed in a dermatologist’s office, a luxurious spa or in the comfort of your own home with an at-home kit.

It is important to note that after treatment, your skin may be tender, red, swollen and/or extra sensitive. The good news is that these effects should subside within a few days. Caring for your skin following a microdermabrasion treatment will consist of keeping your skin cool, clean and moisturized. If you are wondering how to care for your skin after a cosmetic treatment – you have come to the right place. This article will teach your how to best care for your skin following a microdermabrasion treatment.

The best ways to care for your skin following a microdermabrasion treatment:

Cool It Down

Immediately following microdermabrasion treatment, your skin may be rosy, inflamed and/or raw. In fact, it may feel like your face is sunburned. If you experience facial discomfort following treatment, you may want to place a cold compress, ice pack or washcloth on your face until the pain, swelling and tenderness subsides. You may also want to rinse your face with cool water several times a day until you start to feel better.

Use a Gentle Cleanser

You will also need to use a gentle cleanser after microdermabrasion treatment. Be extra gentle while washing your face and make sure your cleanser does not contain perfumes, chemicals and/or harsh dyes. Rinse your face several times with cool water to relieve any facial discomfort. If the cleanser irritates your skin, try unscented soap and water.

Moisturize Daily

Another great way to care for your skin following microdermabrasion treatment is to moisturize it every day. Gently apply an unscented, hypo-allergenic facial moisturizer to your skin on a daily basis.

Stay Away from Harsh Products

One of the best ways to care for your skin following microdermabrasion treatment is to stay away from harsh products like exfoliating facial scrubs (i.e. salt and sugar facial scrubs), scented facial cleansers and moisturizers with salicylic acid, glycolic acid and/or alpha hydroxy acid.  Refrain from using these types of products until you get a “green light” from your dermatologist. Harsh product can irritate your skin and delay the healing process.

Consult Your Dermatologist

Your dermatologist will probably tell you that you can resume your normal skincare routine a week after the treatment. If the swelling, tenderness, redness and pain persist or worsen, contact your physician as soon as possible. Do not resume your normal routine without first consulting your dermatologist.

References:

American Society of Plastic Surgeons. (2014). Microdermabrasion treatments. Retrieved from             http://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/microdermabrasion.html

WebMD. (2014). Dermabrasion and microdermabrasion. Retrieved from             http://www.webmd.com/beauty/dermabrasion/cosmetic-procedures-dermabrasion