Microdermabrasion FAQ
1. How does Microdermabrasion work?
Microdermabrasion is an exfoliation technique in which the top layer of the skin is removed. Our DiamondTome™ Skin Resurfacing System removes this top layer by gently exfoliating the skin with natural diamond chips that are bonded to the tip of a wand, while vacuuming away the exfoliated skin cells in a controlled manner. This system does not use loose abrasives, which can contaminate both your skin and the environment.
Removing the outer layer of skin leaves a smoother texture and promotes the growth of healthy new skin. Skin resurfacing also stimulates the vascular circulation to the skin, resulting in a healthier, firmer appearance.
2. Is Microdermabrasion safe?
Yes, it is. When performed correctly by a certified, experienced technician, microdermabrasion is both safe and effective. As a professional skin-care clinic, we will not perform any procedures without first assessing: your complete medical history, your current health condition, and any potential you may have for complications.
3. What type of training do technicians undergo?
Our technicians at Electra Laser are medical estheticians. In addition, they have received training and certification specific to our DiamondTome™ Skin Resurfacing System. While B.C. has no regulations in place governing technicians who work in skin-care clinics, we require our technicians to be fully trained and certified. All of our technicians have a minimum of two years’ experience.
4. Which type of equipment does Electra Laser use?
At Electra Laser, we use only medical-grade, CSA-approved equipment. For Microdermabrasion treatments, we use the DiamondTome™ Skin Resurfacing System, which is the original medical-grade, crystal-free treatment. All of our equipment is maintained and repaired by professional service technicians who have been certified by the manufacturer.
5. Am I required to book a consultation prior to being treated?
Yes, we will book a complimentary consultation appointment for you with one of our certified technicians prior to scheduling any microdermabrasion treatment. This is for your own protection, and we cannot make exceptions. At this time, you should also share with us any past experience you have had with skin rejuvenation and/or laser skin treatments.
You are responsible for informing your technician of any medications or natural health products you are taking; and of any underlying medical conditions you have. These are critical details that we must consider when customizing your skin-rejuvenation treatments.
We encourage you to ask all of your questions during your consultation so that we can address your concerns prior to beginning your treatment. It is important to us that you are well informed before you begin any skin-rejuvenation treatments and, you feel comfortable with our clinic and your technician.
6. What are some of the benefits of Microdermabrasion?
It is non-invasive, pain-free, and requires no downtime. Because the DiamondTome™ System uses no harsh abrasives—unlike the older crystal method—it is much more gentle on the skin and is suitable even for sensitive skin.
7. Are the results of microdermabrasion permanent?
The results of microdermabrasion are long-lasting, however, they cannot be considered permanent. After your series of five treatments, we usually recommend that you book followup treatments every four to six weeks to maintain the rejuvenated appearance of your skin.
8. Is Microdermabrasion painful?
No, it is virtually pain-free.
9. What are the possible side effects of Microdermabrasion treatment?
You might experience a slight tingling and your skin might feel tighter—as though you had been sunburned. Your skin could appear slightly flushed, but this will generally fade within 12 to 24 hours. If you choose, your technician would be happy to assist you in selecting and applying one of our clinical grade cover-up products, available for your use.
10. How long is a typical treatment?
A microdermabrasion treatment will typically last anywhere from 45 minutes to one hour. It is dependent upon the condition of your skin, the concerns you wish to address, and the results you hope to achieve.
11. How many treatments will I need?
We usually recommend a series of five treatments. Sometimes, we will further recommend that you undergo other types of skin-rejuvenation treatments in conjunction with microdermabrasion. This will depend upon your skin characteristics, the concerns you wish to address, and the outcome you hope to achieve. Your technician will be able to provide you with a more precise estimate after your skin assessment.
12. Pre and Post-Treatment Instructions:
Caring for your skin before and after skin-rejuvenation treatment is your personal responsibility. However, your technician will provide you with detailed instructions for both pre- and post-treatment skin care. And, we are always available to you by telephone to answer any questions or discuss concerns you might have prior to, and following, microdermabrasion treatment.
Pre-Treatment Care:
Please:
- Avoid use of Accutane for six months.
- Avoid natural and artificial tanning—including self-tanner and spray tans—for a minimum of four weeks.
- Discontinue the use of Retin-A, Retinol, glycolics, bleaching creams, and exfoliants on treatment area one week prior.
- Shave any hair present in the treatment area. Men should shave twice to ensure the hair is as short as possible.
- Gently cleanse the area, removing all makeup and lotions.
- Do not apply any products except for a topical anesthetic if you are using one.
- For treatment of pigmented lesions, consult your physician if there is a family history of skin cancer or other genetic diseases.
Post-Treatment Care:
Please:
- Avoid activities that induce excessive sweating—hot tubs, saunas, hot showers, whirlpools, and vigorous workouts—for one to two days.
- Apply a cold compress—not ice—to help reduce redness and swelling.
- Do not pick or scratch any darkened, pigmented areas that begin to flake.
- Avoid natural and artificial tanning—including self-tanner and spray tans—for a minimum of four weeks.
- Apply a minimum SPF 45 (UVA/UVB) sunblock every two hours during sun exposure up to eight weeks.
- Apply antibiotic ointment if skin is broken or blistering.
- Use gentle cleansers with lukewarm water. Do not rub skin vigorously. Moisturizer may be applied.