Dermabrasion

Dermabrasion

1. What is Dermabrasion?
2. Who Is Dermabrasion Procedure Suitable For?
3. How Is Dermabrasion Done?
4. What Should Be Considered Before the Dermabrasion Procedure?
5. What Are the Possible Conditions After Dermabrasion?
6. What Should Be Considered After Dermabrasion?

What is Dermabrasion?

Dermabrasion, commonly known as sanding, is a procedure aimed at improving skin appearance. It is applied for various purposes, with the most common being the treatment of acne scars, surgical scars, wound scars, skin blemishes, and wrinkle reduction, as well as addressing skin irregularities.

Dermabrasion involves the removal and peeling of superficial layers of the skin using surgical techniques, allowing for the formation of new tissue. Often referred to as mechanical peeling, this procedure also eliminates skin irregularities and smoothes the skin's surface as if it were being sanded. This method is conducted using a special motor and abrasive tips to fully peel the upper layer of the skin while partially removing the lower layer. This process promotes skin renewal and prevents the loss of aesthetic features.

Skin peeling can be performed in three ways: mechanical, chemical, and physical.

Apart from Dermabrasion treatment, there are other superficial treatments like chemical peeling and laser treatments.

• Dermabrasion: This method is used to correct fine wrinkles, pits, and irregularities. It also addresses issues such as skin discoloration and keratosis. Dermabrasion is particularly useful for reducing acne scars on the face, minimizing wound scars, and reducing vertical wrinkles around the lips.
• Chemical Peeling (Peeling): Using mild to moderately strong acids, chemical peeling burns the surface of the skin to induce skin peeling. The newly formed skin results in rejuvenation and a more youthful appearance. Chemicals such as glycolic acid (fruit acids), phenol, and TCA are used in chemical peeling. It is effective, especially in reducing wrinkles around the eyes and minimizing skin blemishes.
• Laser Treatments: Laser applications reduce fine wrinkles and spots on the face while tightening collagen beneath the skin for an overall facial lift.

Who Is Eligible for Dermabrasion?

There are no gender or age restrictions for this procedure. Dermabrasion can be performed on individuals of any age recommended by a doctor. However, certain considerations should be kept in mind during the procedure:

• Healing may be more difficult and take longer for older individuals.
• Individuals with dark skin are at a higher risk of scarring, so caution is needed.
• The procedure should not be performed on individuals with skin infections, suspicious skin lesions, skin cancer, or cold sores in the treatment area.
• It is not suitable for individuals with active acne.
• Dermabrasion should not be performed on those using isotretinoin.
• Caution is required for individuals with allergies to the sun or various substances.
• To prevent unwanted scarring, it is generally not recommended during the summer months.

How Is Dermabrasion Performed?

Depending on the size of the area to be treated, dermabrasion can be performed under local or general anesthesia. The choice between local and general anesthesia depends on the extent of the area to be treated. If the area is relatively small, dermabrasion can be performed under local anesthesia.

The procedure typically takes 1 to 1.5 hours, but the duration may vary depending on the size of the area and the patient's skin type. The operation is conducted under sterile conditions. Dermabrasion is a mechanical operation, accomplished by peeling the skin using a motor that rapidly rotates a tool with diamond or wire abrasive tips. Several sessions may be required for optimal results. Dermabrasion is considered a mechanical operation because it uses a motor with diamond or wire sandpaper tips to peel the superficial layer of the skin. The removal of this layer allows for the correction of discolorations, skin irregularities, and fine wrinkles. Once the peeled skin heals, it reveals a smoother, tighter, and fresher skin layer.

Considerations Before Dermabrasion

• Discontinue the use of medications like aspirin that increase bleeding before dermabrasion.
• Refrain from smoking for 1-2 weeks before and after the surgery.
• Wait for active acne to resolve before undergoing the procedure.
• Ensure that any medications taken do not have adverse effects during the operation, and report any chronic illnesses to the doctor.
• Gather information about pre-surgery preparation details, as the procedure can be performed under local or, occasionally, general anesthesia.

What to Expect After Dermabrasion

• Swelling on the skin may be observed after the dermabrasion procedure.
• Mild burning pain may occur after the operation. Pain can also result from chewing hard foods. However, it can be easily controlled with over-the-counter pain relievers.
• Skin contact can be made 24 hours after the surgery when epithelialization is complete. There should be no bleeding after the procedure.
• The formation of various scabs on the treated area is possible.
• Men and women should avoid shaving immediately after the procedure unless the skin has healed. Shaving with a machine is recommended a few days after the healing process to avoid negative effects on the skin.

Given that these situations are possible, individuals undergoing the procedure should not be concerned if they experience any of these conditions.

Post-Dermabrasion Considerations

• Individuals who have undergone dermabrasion should refrain from work and regular activities for two weeks. During this period, changes in appearance and discomfort may occur due to the need for a healing process.
• Sunscreen use is mandatory, as recommended by doctors. There are no issues with using supplementary products to protect the skin.
• For 6-12 months, individuals should protect their skin until its color returns to normal. During this time, it is mandatory to protect against sunlight and carry sunscreen at all times.
• To prevent damage to healing wounds and increased redness, alcohol and smoking should be avoided for 2-3 weeks after the procedure.
• Pain relievers, itch relief products, moisturizers, and ointments may be used as recommended by a doctor.