To Microderm or Not To Microderm
Well, of course … to microderm! The question is more around whether it’s absolutely necessary to have the treatment done professionally. I must begin by saying that my mother will disagree with the outcome of this post (that is, my opinion). And I will be honest and say that I may change my mind 20 years from now. After all, skin can change and so do our choices. My mother has the most beautiful skin (and face for that matter…she is downright gorgeous) and I am blessed to inherent her genes (unfortunately, I also got the cellulite and spider veins!). But here is my feeling about microdermabrasion….it’s the one thing easy enough for me to do on my own. Quite frankly because there are some incredible products out there that do a fantastic job of skin cell turnover.
First, let’s get into how your skin works, compliments of HowStuffWorks. Your skin is made up of two main layers, the epidermis and the dermis. The epidermis is the layer closest to the outside world. It’s a set of dead skin cells on top of another layer of cells that are in the process of maturing. The topmost layer is called the stratum corneum. The stratum corneum mostly acts as a barrier between the outside world and the lower skin layers. It keeps all but the smallest molecules from getting through.
In general terms, microdermabrasion is the application of tiny, rough grains that buff away the surface layer of skin. This can be accomplished through different products and treatments, including medical procedures, salon treatments, and creams/scrubs that you can apply yourself at home. Microdermabrasion is typically done to the face, neck, chest, arms or hands. It can include jets of zinc oxide, aluminum oxide crystals, or fine organic particles. Particles/materials are vacuumed off through a wand.
Microdermabrasion is relatively a newcomer to the
So with that said, is microdermabrasion only effective at the hands of a professional? (Here’s where my mom and I disagree...) I think not. I have done both, professional and at home treatments, and feel you can achieve excellent results at home. There are some wonderful products out there, such as Theraderm’s Eternox Exfoliating Gel, Philosophy’s MicroDelivery Peel, Kate Somerville’s Kate in a Jar Intensive Exfoliating Treatment, and Neutrogena’s Advanced Solutions: At Home MicroDermabrasion System. The key to great skin is in the exfoliation - and you must exfoliate at least once a week. If you are using a milder product, you can exfoliate up to two times a week.
Bottom line: whether you are like me or more like my mother, you are investing in your skin - and for that … kudos to you!
Stumble it!
Of these four products you suggest above, which one do you like the best…they are all run about the same price (nothing is outrageous expensive…the Neutro one looks to be a machine of sorts while the others are just something you apply). Favorite?
Hi Tammy,
I would have to say I have two favorites. Eternox Gel is awesome and gentle and you can use it on one spot daily in addition to 1-2x per week all over your face. I also use Dr. LeWinn’s Facial Polishing Gel ($28). Again, a gentle exfoliator but very different from Theraderm’s (scrub versus gel). If you need a serious scrubbing, that’s where I would recommend Philosophy’s product … but it’s more abrasive so you won’t be able to do that one all the time. Here’s my recommendation: start with the Dr. LeWinn’s product (go see Jeffre and tell him I sent you in for it). Get a sample of the Philosophy one at Sephora when you’re out shopping. The sample should last 4+ uses. If you feel you need to add to your regimen, then add in Eternox. I hope I haven’t confused you more!
Thanks,
Catherine