Are you bothered by large pores? Do you want to get rid of fine lines, crow's feet or age spots? You owe it to yourself to see what microdermabrasion can do for you.

This deep-cleaning, skin-freshening procedure has virtually no side-effects, and the results are amazing. You'll see an improvement in your skin's texture and notice a healthy glow immediately after your very first microdermabrasion treatment.

What is microdermabrasion?

Microdermabrasion is a non-surgical procedure that stimulates your skin to produce new cells and collagen. This technique "polishes" the skin, producing a more refined texture. Microdermabrasion is safe and effective on all skin colors and types.

How does microdermabrasion work?

A microdermabrasion treatment is given with a dual hand-held tube.

• The first tube sprays a stream of aluminum oxide crystals with the consistency of fine sugar. Aluminum oxide is hypoallergenic—making microdermabrasion safe even if you are sensitive to the chemicals used in other skin care procedures. When applied to the skin, these crystals buff away the surface layer of the skin—the epidermis—sloughing off dead skin cells.
  
  
• The second tube vacuums up the excess crystals and removes dead skin cells, revealing softer, smoother, more radiant skin.
  
  

What can microdermabrasion treat?

• Fine lines
  
  
• Crow's feet
  
  
• Age spots
  
  
• Acne scars
  
  

Who is a good candidate for microdermabrasion?

Microdermabrasion can help you if you have:

• Oily skin
  
  
• Large pores
  
  
• Skin too sensitive for chemical procedures or anti-acne drugs
  like Retin-A
  
  

Who is not a good candidate for microdermabrasion?

You should not have microdermabrasion if you have:

• Active rosacea
  
  
• Active oral herpes (cold sores)
  
  
• Fragile capillaries
  
  
• Eczema or psoriasis
  
  
• Vascular lesions
  
  
• Widespread acne
  
  
• Open sores or skin lesions
  
  
• Warts
  
  
• Dermatitis
  
  
• Lupus
  
  
• Uncontrolled diabetes mellitus
  
  
• Erythematosus
  
  

You also should not undergo microdermabrasion if you are taking anti-coagulants such as Coumadin (warfarin).

How long does a microdermabrasion treatment take?

A treatment takes 30 minutes to an hour—making microdermabrasion a safe, effective "lunch hour" procedure. No anesthetic is required. After the microdemabrasion process, your skin will be cleansed and you will receive a mini facial massage. Then a moisturizer with a sunscreen will be applied.

You may also choose to have a hydrating or salicylic mask or peel applied immediately after a microdermabrasion treatment. Masks and peels are especially effective at this time, as the dead skin cells have just been removed from the skin's surface.

There is very little redness immediately after a microdermabrasion treatment, so you can apply your makeup and go right back to work or social activities.

How many treatments are needed?

The number of treatments you will need for optimum results depends on the condition of your skin. Most patients need six to 12 treatments, spaced two to three weeks apart. Once you have achieved the desired results, you can maintain them easily with periodic treatments.