When you think of crystals, you likely imagine something wrapped in 19 carat gold lavishly adorning your neck and ears, such a crystal quartz necklace and matching earrings. Perhaps you envision glittering beams of brilliant rock formations found in the caverns of Mexico. Although both are lovely, we want to discuss different crystals that yield a far more personal reward – the capacity to rejuvenate the skin, reduce the signs of ageing and even out skin tone. Now everyone can experience a new way to rejuvenate dead skin with a microdermabrasion treatment.
What is microdermabrasion?
Microdermabrasion is a non-invasive cosmetic skin treatment where the facial skin is exfoliated with a fine spray of tiny crystals. It removes the damaged or dead surface (epidermal) layer skin cells. Scientific evidence in favour of the treatment is growing with clinical trials showing improvement in some aspects of photo-ageing, rosacea and acne scarring. Benefits are seen for the reduction of wrinkles, dark spots, fine lines, blackheads, and the appearance of scar tissue. Studies indicate that more aggressive treatments result in increased antimicrobial peptides and cytokeratin 16 production, both important precursors for collagen production, and critical in the skin rejuvenation process.
Although microdermabrasion is one of the few skin treatments that you can perform at home, it is not advisable. While the home-based treatments are inexpensive, they are less efficient than professional treatments and there have been reported instances where patients’ skin became infected due to the use of non-professional microdermabrasion treatments.
Treatment and Application
Professionals can apply the treatment using various devices and techniques, each with the intent of removing the very top layer of the skin. This superficial layer of skin cells forms a protective barrier of cells. Unseen by the naked eye, these cells are typically rough and insulate wrinkles and skin imperfections such as fine lines. During a microdermabrasion process, a hand-held tool is waved across the intended skin area, in a balanced motion. The method involves spraying a subtle jet of tiny crystals across the uppermost surface layer of the skin. This process releases the lifeless skin cells and simultaneously, the hand tool scoops up the skin cells and crystals, leaving a renewed surface. The practitioner can customise the pressure and length of treatment to align with the recipients’ skin type, tone and desired result.
Benefits of microdermabrasion
You may wonder how a fine mist of minuscule crystals can enhance the appearance of the skin. The process is said to stimulate the growth of collagen thereby producing a thicker appearance to reduce the look of fine wrinkles, lines and even scars. After the dead skin cells have been sloughed off, the skin will appear smoother, feel softer and have an overall supple glow.
Although there have been reports of redness and increased sensitivity to the affected area after treatment, these symptoms only last for about half an hour. Also, it is recommended that you utilise sunscreen afterwards.
The average treatment lasts about 30-45 minutes and the best results are achieved with a course of several treatments. Of course, every treatment is unique as every patient is unique. Why not talk to a skin consultant about a microdermabrasion skin treatment? The only thing you have to lose is dead skin cells.
