Dermabrasion is considered to be an effective way to refresh and rejuvenate the skin. The problem, however, is that it is only safe for those with fair skin tones and it can result in quite a bit of downtime afterward. Both hydrodermabrasion and microdermabrasion offer gentler alternatives to dermabrasion that are safe and effective for all skin tones. Each method has its own list of pros and cons. No matter the method of dermabrasion, the goal is to remove dead, dull skin cells to make way for healthy skin. Read on to discover the differences between these options and which treatment option may be right for you.
What Is Exfoliation and Why Is It Important?
Exfoliation is simply the process of removing dead skin cells. When we do not exfoliate, dead skin cells can build up. This leaves your skin looking dull, dry and rough. Plus, these dead cells can clog the pores and result in excess oil. This can cause acne and other blemishes. As we age, cell regeneration slows down, making this an even bigger issue. Removing these dead skin cells can reveal a fresh, healthy-looking layer of skin. It can also make the products you use on your face, such as moisturizer, more effective because they can penetrate deeper. While exfoliating at home can be helpful, sometimes professional help is needed to reach your desired results. This is where either hydrodermabrasion or microdermabrasion can be useful.
The top benefits of exfoliating your skin are:
- It unclogs your pores and helps prevent acne
- It helps skin care products penetrate deeper and be more effective
- It increases cell turnover
- It can stimulate collagen synthesis
- It can even out the skin tone
- It can stimulate blood flow
What Is Hydrodermabrasion?
The method of dead skin cell removal in hydrodermabrasion uses water, hence the name. A jet peel machine is utilized. This machine distributes water and air at a high speed to gently exfoliate your skin. As a bonus, this treatment increases the blood circulation to the skin, which can help reduce the appearance of a variety of skin imperfections. The extra circulation is great for stimulating the production of more collagen and elastin fibers, which are considered to be the key factors for healthy skin. During a hydrodermabrasion treatment, a specialized serum can be applied to the skin to take your results even further. This treatment method is safe for all skin tones and types. You are eligible for this treatment even if you have very dry or sensitive skin.
Benefits of Hydrodermabrasion
There are many advantages associated with this type of skin exfoliation and treatment. Some of the highlights include:
- Non-surgical and non-invasive
- You leave the office with glowing, healthy skin
- Safe and effective for all skin types
- Improves both skin tone and texture
- Can help fight the signs of aging
- Treats oily skin
- Can clear clogged pores
- Can minimize pore size
- Thoroughly hydrates the skin
- Promotes the production of collagen and elastin
- Comfortable, pain-free procedure
Who Should Consider a Hydrodermabrasion Treatment?
As stated above, this treatment is safe and effective for all skin tones and types. The only potential downside is that it can take multiple treatments to see a drastic change in certain cases. However, if you are looking for something to add to your skin care routine or just a way to refresh your look before a big event, this may be the perfect treatment choice for you. In order to get dramatic, long-lasting results, six to ten sessions of hydrodermabrasion are recommended. These sessions should be spaced seven to ten days apart.
What to Expect with a Hydrodermabrasion Treatment
The first step is to sit down at a consultation to discuss your goals for treatment and to ensure that this is the right treatment choice for you. This is when we can discuss how many sessions you may need in order to accomplish your goals. At your treatment, you will be able to relax. This completely non-invasive procedure causes no discomfort and results in no downtime. You can resume your normal activities afterward. This includes applying makeup immediately after treatment and resuming your normal skin care routine that evening. Unlike treatments that involve lasers or full-on dermabrasion, which leave your skin looking red and irritated, a hydrodermabrasion treatment instantly leaves you looking refreshed.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Hydrodermabrasion
In order to take your results to the next level, consider the following tips after your treatment:
- Use a rich moisturizer for at least seven days after treatment.
- Use gentle, unscented products to cleanse your face.
- Avoid picking or scratching at your face. Although you get instant results, the full improvements take time to develop.
- Drink plenty of water to help keep your skin hydrated.
- Although you can apply makeup after treatment, giving it a 48 hour break can help it rejuvenate faster.
- Avoid direct sunlight for 5 to 7 days because your skin may be more sensitive for that time period.
Everyone’s skin is different. You will be given specific aftercare instructions after your treatment.
What Is Microdermabrasion?
Microcrystals are used to exfoliate the skin in this type of treatment. A hand-held device is passed over the skin in order to accomplish this. While the treatment is happening, a wand gently suctions up the dead skin cells that are removed. The microcrystals effectively “sand” the skin, which reveals a fresh, healthier-looking layer. This option treats many of the same issues as hydrodermabrasion. Although it may cause some redness, the “downtime” with microdermabrasion is much less significant than with traditional dermabrasion.
What Are the Benefits of Microdermabrasion?
Microdermabrasion also has many perks. These include:
- One session can leave your skin healthier and brighter
- Can minimize the appearance of pores
- Can help with oily, clogged skin
- Reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
- Can help reduce the appearance of sun damage
- Can improve mild cases of acne and remove blackheads
- Can help reduce the appearance of scars
- Results in less redness and downtime than traditional dermabrasion
Who Should Consider Microdermabrasion?
This treatment is also considered safe and effective for most skin tones and types. It is not recommended for those with cystic or severe acne, as it can irritate and inflame the skin further. If you have sensitive skin, this option may not be right for you. This treatment also does not stimulate collagen production, meaning it will not help tighten the skin. Some people find that a single session of microdermabrasion is more effective than one session a hydrodermabrasion, however.
What to Expect with a Microdermabrasion Treatment
When you have this treatment, the first step is to thoroughly cleanse the face. You will lie back while the microcrystals are used to cleanse the face. People describe the sensation as similar to being licked by a cat’s rough tongue. It is similar to having a “gritty” massage of the face. This treatment option is not considered painful as it only works on the surface layer of the skin exclusively. A version of microdermabrasion that does not use micro crystals also exists. This form of the treatment uses a diamond-tipped wand to exfoliate the skin.
The procedure itself is typically finished in just 15 to 20 minutes unless it is being incorporated into a complete facial treatment. Once the exfoliation is completed, your face will once again be washed. While your face may look a bit pink initially, this should fade within a few hours. You will want to avoid direct sun exposure for a few days after treatment because your face will be extra sensitive.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Microdermabrasion
To make sure you get the best possible results, keep in mind the following aftercare tips:
- Avoid direct sunlight and tanning beds. Wear SPF 30 or higher sunblock, even on overcast days.
- Use a rich moisturizer for 3 to 6 days post-treatment.
- Avoid products designed to exfoliate or ones that have glycolic acid and AHA in them for 48 hours.
- Avoid saunas and heat treatments for two weeks after treatment.
- Avoid applying makeup for 24 hours after treatment. Mineral-based makeups are then recommended.
- Keep the skin dry for 24 hours after treatment.
You will be given specific aftercare instructions that are customized to your skin after your treatment.
Which Treatment Option to Choose?
The best choice will depend on many different things. One of the biggest factors is what you are trying to treat. For example, active breakouts are often better served by hydrodermabrasion. Acne scarring, on the other hand, typically responds better to microdermabrasion. Keep in mind that hydrodermabrasion offers more than just exfoliation. It also thoroughly moisturizes your skin. That being said, it may require more sessions to remove heavily built-up dead skin cells than microdermabrasion would. If you have dry or sensitive skin, hydrodermabrasion will likely be recommended, especially during the dry seasons. Everyone’s skin is unique so what is best for your friends and family may not be what is best for you.
Sitting down with us at a consultation is the best way to determine which treatment option is a better choice for you. The decision will be based on your skin type, the issues you are wanting to treat, how many treatments you are willing to do, and more. We will also discuss your medical history to make sure you are getting the best possible choice for you.
We have a team of knowledgeable and friendly individuals at Newport Face N Body Med Spa in Irvine, CA who will be happy to answer your questions. Together, we can decide if hydrodermabrasion or microdermabrasion is the best choice for you to have the healthy, beautiful skin you have always wanted. Contact us today to schedule your consultation!
