Controlled microdermabrasion
Last reviewed: 19.10.2021
All iLive content is medically reviewed or fact checked to ensure as much factual accuracy as possible.
We have strict sourcing guidelines and only link to reputable media sites, academic research institutions and, whenever possible, medically peer reviewed studies. Note that the numbers in parentheses ([1], [2], etc.) are clickable links to these studies.
If you feel that any of our content is inaccurate, out-of-date, or otherwise questionable, please select it and press Ctrl + Enter.
Controlled microdermabrasion - skin resurfacing under the action of inert crystals of corundum powder (alumina crystals), by means of which layers of tissues are exfoliated at different depths.
Mechanism of action of microdermabrasion
The effect is achieved due to the direct action of pointed crystals on the fabric and is characterized by a very low traumatic effect of high accuracy, in addition, the amount of powder is precisely controlled. With controlled microdermabrasion, there are virtually no side effects or undesirable effects, and patients can continue their social life a few minutes after the procedure. Immediately after the procedure, symptoms such as pain, erythema, go away quickly, and often are simply absent. The biggest difference between controlled microdermabrasion and other alternative methods (mechanical and chemical dermabrasion) is that with its use, the probability of traumatization is really minimal due to the high accuracy of the intervention. Such a technique can be realized with the help of some tools, which can be used to spray crystals of corundum (an inert substance) onto the treated area, thanks to the vacuum effect (the intensity of the spray can be controlled and measured). Skin contacting crystals produce mechanical removal of tissue fragments, then the removed tissue fragments, together with the crystals, are collected in a special container. Removal of the epidermis and the opening of the surface layers of the dermis causes an inflammatory reaction (all typical stages of the inflammatory process are present: active hyperemia, the appearance of macrophages, activation of fibroblasts, etc.), which precedes the restoration of weavers. Active hyperemia allows to provide a zone of exposure to a large amount of arterial blood, rich in oxygen, and to carry out a full-fledged outflow, contributing to the prevention of stagnant phenomena.
Comparison of traditional dermabrasion and microdermabrasion
Options |
Controlled microdermabrasion |
Traditional dermabrasion |
.Anesthesia |
No or local |
General or local |
Time of treatment |
A short |
Prolonged |
Mode |
Ambulatory |
Stationary |
Interval |
5-10 days |
6-12 months |
A course of treatment |
6-12 months |
12-24 months |
Contraindications |
No |
Associated with anesthesia, burns or pigmentation |
Treatment |
Open |
Closed |
When conducting controlled microdermabrasion, it is important that only part of the epidermis is removed, without affecting the dermis. The remaining part "works" as the basis guiding the formation of new fibrils, so that they are formed in the proper way and in the right order in a healthy tissue. The main feature of the method is the ability to constantly monitor the effectiveness of abrasive action during the course.
Indications for microdermabrasion
Application |
Controlled microdermabrasion |
Traditional dermabrasion |
Face peeling |
Yes |
No |
Smoothing wrinkles |
Yes |
No |
Stretching |
Yes |
No |
Scars after acne |
Yes |
- |
Scars after chicken pox |
Yes |
Yes |
Hypertrophic scars |
Yes |
Yes |
Before operation |
Yes |
No |
Couperose |
Yes |
No |
Methods of conducting and prescribing microdermabrasion
The procedure uses an average low pressure aspiration (300-400 mm Hg) without the use of compression. The tip moves directly over the surface of the skin, aspiration of corundum crystals is made through it. The duration of the procedure is 10-15 minutes. The frequency and number of procedures are determined by the indication for the use of microdermabrasion. After the end of the procedure, the patient should immediately return to their daily activities.