Microdermabrasion

In the literal sense, microdermabrasion is defined as a technique of removing the outer layer of skin, usually limited to the stratum corneum or the top layer of dead cells of our skin. This process is promoted under many different "buzz words" such as Power Peel, Dermapeel, Peel abrasion, Euro peel, and Dermaplaning in an effort to establish distinctive "marketable" differences from the other techniques. These techniques range from specialized lasers vaporizing the unwanted debris to precise blasting machines blowing "fine micro-crystals" across the surface of the skin as well as to mechanically shaving away the cells with a scalpel blade. Usually several treatments are required to achieve the desired effect in all methods and they must be repeated to keep the stratum corneum from reforming. Moreover, the costs of this procedure can go as high as several hundred dollars per session. However, the purpose of all these techniques is the same: Reveal the new, fresher, softer layer of skin just beneath the stratum corneum.

Microdermabrasion versus Glycolic Acid Peels: Removal of the stratum corneum is also the objective of glycolic acid facial peels. Instead of mechanical means, glycolic peels use the chemical action of the glycolic acid to dissolve the "glue" binding the top layer to the surface of your skin. There is, however, a key benefit in the use of glycolic acid over microdermabrasion: Microdermabrasion does not have any long term health benefit whereas glycolic acid stimulates new growth of collagen fibers which have deteriorated over time through environmental damage and the aging process. Continued use of daily home glycolic products will not only give you a fresher look, it will improve the overall health and vitality of your skin. In other words, Glycolic peels and products create healthier skin.

Our recommended treatment program consists of 4-6 glycolic facial peels at three-week intervals combined with daily use of home products at gradually increased concentrations. Any necessary dermaplaning (microdermabrasion) is included in our glycolic peels at no additional charge as part of our overall program. This gives the immediate benefits in appearance from the mechanical removal of the stratum corneum, which in turn, removes barriers to the glycolic acid penetrating the epidermis to stimulate the growth of new collagen. Please refer to our glycolic acid facial peels page for additional information concerning our glycolic treatments and recommended program.