How Microdermabrasion Can Improve Your Skin

As you age, sun damage and environmental factors act together to age and wrinkle your skin. This shows first on your face as fine lines, discolorations, uneven patches, and dryness. Thankfully, there are ways to improve the appearance of your facial skin and make you look years younger without resorting to a complete facelift.

At Laughlin Plastic Surgery in Annapolis, Maryland, Dr. Daniel Laughlin uses a variety of cosmetic skin services to refresh your appearance, including microdermabrasion. 

Microdermabrasion basics

Microdermabrasion is merely an enhanced form of exfoliation. We use a mildly abrasive handheld device that is safe for almost everyone, regardless of skin tone, and doesn’t require any downtime. 

The benefits of microdermabrasion are many. This method can:

Improve circulation

Microdermabrasion exfoliation stimulates your face's skin cells, agitating the tissue and prompting stronger blood circulation. Your blood contains healing factors that will help with the regenerative process, resulting in a refreshed appearance.

Improve hyperpigmentation or pale spots 

If you have a light skin tone, patches of darkened skin due to aging and sun exposure can be lightened to blend more evenly with the rest of your skin. If your skin tone is darker, the same effect works to even out the color of your skin if you have lighter spots. 

Reduce fine lines and wrinkles

Microdermabrasion can lessen the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles by stimulating the production of collagen and elastin. These substances plump out creases and restore a more youthful appearance. The exfoliation can also smooth out the skin tone to make stretch marks less obvious.

Reduce or eliminate enlarged pores

Aging skin cells can leave pores looking larger and unattractive. Exfoliation and stimulation of the skin leave pores looking smaller and more uniform as new skin is revealed. 

Treat acne and the scars left by acne

Microdermabrasion removes dead skin cells that contribute to acne by clogging pores. The process also helps even out skin left rough or pitted by acne scarring. 

The microdermabrasion experience

Dr. Laughlin will consult with you about your skin and devise a treatment schedule designed to rejuvenate your face. To obtain optimal results, you’ll likely have several sessions spaced four to six weeks apart. Each session takes only about 30 minutes to complete, and you can return to your normal activities afterward.

Please inform us of any medications and supplements you take. For several days before each appointment, don’t wax your eyebrows or use a facial exfoliant. On the day of your session, arrive with a freshly washed face devoid of makeup or moisturizers.

Most patients say the process doesn’t hurt but does produce a slight stinging sensation. It’s normal for your skin to look a little red for a few days. You’ll want to avoid sun exposure for several weeks after your treatment. After fully healing your face, don’t forget to wear sunscreen assiduously. 

Are you ready for microdermabrasion? To schedule an appointment with Dr. Laughlin, call our office or use our web form to send a private message today.