Microdermabrasion Treatments
Since this is a relatively simple, non-surgical treatment, there is no need for pain killers, or medication of any kind leading up to or following microdermabrasion. It doesn't hurt in the slightest, and when you're in the hands of a qualified technician, you should not have a period of recovery time thereafter.
The procedure itself is not very time-consuming, and when done by itself (which is what I did) it only takes about 15 or 20 minutes. If you make this an add-on to a full facial, then you should plan on your appointment lasting from sixty to ninety minutes.
Salon (or spa) microdermabrasion is initially a weekly treatment, depending on your skin type, and after 4 to 6 weeks, you should be able to taper off to once or twice per month. Ask for a recommendation about frequency during your initial consultation.
Basically, the microdermabrasion treatment begins with first thoroughly cleansing your skin.
After cleansing, a small, thin wand, about the size of a marker, is then brushed over the surface of the skin on your face, and ideally, your decollette area. You will feel a little grittiness but that's only the crystals themselves working to slough off the dead skin.
At the same time, there is a suction process happening from that same wand, which vacuums up the crystals (for the most part) and also stimulates the surface of the skin. This is where the benefits become twofold with microdermabrasion. Not only do you get smoother, fresher-looking skin, but the suction action increases the blood flow, and acts as a massager to the facial muscles. Your skin can actually become firmer when you keep up with the treatments, not just appear firmer like it does when using skin-firming products.
Recovery And After Care
There should be virtually no recovery time following microdermabrasion. A typical reaction should be a slight pink tone to the skin, which should never be problematic, and should be completely gone within 24-36 hours.
Your skin will also now be acting like a sponge more than ever as well. This is good when you make certain that you use quality cleansers, toners, moisturizers and cosmetics that are formulated for your skin type. Be sure you specifically ask your aesthetician about this at the time of your treatment.
Following that same line of thought, if you don't already do it, drinking 8 to 10 8oz. glasses of water per day is something you should begin. This will help flush out toxins in your body that affect the appearance and health of your skin.