Controlled microdermabrasion

Controlled microdermabrasion is a skin polishing process using inert crystals of corundum powder (aluminum oxide crystals), which exfoliate layers of tissue at different depths.

Mechanism of action of microdermabrasion

The effect is achieved by direct action of pointed crystals on the tissue and is characterized by very little traumatic action of high precision, in addition, the amount of powder is precisely controlled. With controlled microdermabrasion, there are practically no side or unwanted effects, and patients can continue their social life a few minutes after the procedure. Immediately after the procedure, symptoms such as pain, erythema quickly pass, and are often simply absent. The biggest difference between controlled microdermabrasion and other alternative methods (mechanical and chemical dermabrasion) is that when using it, the probability of trauma is really minimal due to the high precision of the intervention. This technique can be implemented with the help of some tools, using which it is possible to spray corundum crystals (an inert substance) on the treated area, due to the vacuum effect (the intensity of spraying can be controlled and measured). Crystals in contact with the skin 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 opening of the superficial layers of the dermis causes an inflammatory reaction (all typical stages of the inflammatory process are present: active hyperemia, appearance of macrophages, activation of fibroblasts, etc.), which precedes the restoration of the tissues. Active hyperemia allows to provide the area of influence with a large amount of arterial blood rich in oxygen, and to carry out a full outflow, helping to prevent stagnation.

Comparison of traditional dermabrasion and microdermabrasion

Parameters	Controlled microdermabrasion	Traditional dermabrasion
.Anesthesia	No or local	General or local
Treatment time	Short	Long lasting
Mode	Outpatient	Stationary
Interval	5-10 days	6-12 months
Course of treatment	6-12 months	12-24 months
Contraindications	No	Associated with anesthesia, burns or pigmentation
Treatment	Open	Closed

When performing controlled microdermabrasion, it is important that only part of the epidermis is removed, without affecting the dermis. The remaining part "works" as a base, guiding the formation of new fibrils so that they are formed in the right way and in the right order on healthy tissue. The main feature of the method is the ability to constantly monitor the effectiveness of the abrasive action during the course.

Indications for microdermabrasion

Application	Controlled microdermabrasion	Traditional dermabrasion
Facial peeling	Yes	No
Smoothing wrinkles	Yes	No
Stretch marks	Yes	No
Acne scars	Yes	-
Chickenpox scars	Yes	Yes
Hypertrophic scars	Yes	Yes
Before the operation	Yes	No
Couperose	Yes	No

Methodology for performing and prescribing microdermabrasion

During the procedure, medium low aspiration pressure (300-400 mm Hg) is used without compression. The tip moves directly along the skin surface, through which corundum crystals are aspirated. The procedure lasts 10-15 minutes. The frequency and number of procedures are determined by the indication for the use of microdermabrasion. After the procedure, the patient should immediately return to their daily activities.