Acne Care – Dermabrasion

Dermabrasion is not a new treatment. It has been around since the 1950's. It should not be confused with micro dermabrasion which is completely different, although the aims of Dermabrasion are similar to that of chemical peels and laser treatment. Dermabrasion is a more intensive surgical procedure and can be used to treat deep facial lines, sun damage, and acne scaring. Dermabrasion works by sanding the skin to remove damaged skin which in turn allows new skin to grow in its place.

The skin is usually frozen or numbed and then skin is scraped away (the outermost layer of skin is scraped first) using either a rough wire brush or a tool containing diamond particles which is applied to the surface of the skin. This tool acts like a sander with sheets of rough paper either aluminium oxide or silica carbide crystals which are attached to this motorised tool. A less or more substantial effect can be achieved dependent upon the coarseness of the paper used. The specialist will continue to sand the skin until he/she is satisfied that the scaring is less visible.

Dermabrasion is a skilled technique and needs to be carried out by a surgeon or dermatologist. It involves full assessment of the patient before and during the procedure to ensure how much skin needs to be removed. As a result the procedure usually takes up to an hour.

After treatment the skin will bleed and some swelling may occur. Bleeding can be stopped with cold compresses before a final dressing is applied. Over the coming weeks, as the scabs fall off, the new skin will initially look red but this will calm down. Most people will fully recover within 10 days but the entire healing process in terms of the redness can take a few months to fade.

Dependent on the depth and complexity of the scarring, it may be necessary to have further treatments after a couple of months.

For more information about Dermabrasion you are advised to talk to your GP who will be able to refer you to either someone who specialises in Dermabrasion or a dermatologist.