Microdermabrasion for Back Acne

Frustratingly annoying, acne is one of the most common skin conditions faced by almost everyone at some point of time. It occurs when the sebaceous glands of the body start secreting sebum (an oily substance that keeps the hair and skin lubricated) in excess, along with too much production of dead skin cells by the body. So these substances can block the hair follicle, ultimately forming a plug-like thing. Now this plug can form into a whitehead if it causes the follicle wall to bulge, and a blackhead, if it remains open to the surface and darkens. Pimples develop when the same plug becomes infected or due to some reasons, inflamed. This causes them to redden. A more serious form of acne is what is known as a cyst. This occurs when the plug develops inside the hair follicle. Hormonal changes, bacterial infection, side effects of certain medication, or heredity factors are assumed to play an important role in acne breakouts, although, the exact cause has not been identified yet. Use of microdermabrasion is known to be an effective treatment method for most people suffering from the problem of back acne. Let us see from the following how...

What is Microdermabrasion?

It is a cosmetic procedure whose regular application helps in preventing or reducing the frequency of acne breakouts, and improving the look of mild acne scars. Besides these, it is also helpful in treating fine lines, wrinkles, enlarged pores, and skin that has become rough textured. Its application basically helps in getting rid of the outermost layer of dry dead skin cells. It can be performed in three ways; one method uses microcrystals of aluminum dioxide, while another one makes use of tiny diamonds. These two are done at the doctor's office. The third procedure can be done at home, and includes a microdermabrasion cream.

In the first method, microcrystals of aluminum dioxide are sprayed onto the skin. These crystals have a fine, hard, and sand-like structure. And when these are blasted across the face, the dead outer layer of the skin gets removed.

The second procedure has been newly introduced. Here, the doctor makes use of an exfoliating tool, the tip of which is covered in tiny diamonds. And as this tool is rubbed against the problem area of the skin, it sloughs off the dead layer of the skin's epidermis.

And the third method makes use of a cream that consists of tiny crystals. The cream has to be applied to the skin, either with hands, or a sponge.

Benefits

Post the procedure the skin is pink, and feels dry and tight. To prevent dryness, applying a moisturizer is recommended. And because the layer of dead skin cells is gotten rid of, one can notice improvements in acne scars, besides wrinkles and fine lines. Also, since microdermabrasion improves blood flow, it gives the skin a healthy glow, and stimulates collagen and elastin within the skin. Another benefit of the use of microdermabrasion for back acne is that it causes better penetration of products that are used for acne treatment.

Side Effects and After Care

One common side effect that the procedure can cause is eye irritation. This may occur in the procedure which uses crystals of aluminum dioxide. These crystals might get into the eyes, thus causing irritation. And as far as aftercare is concerned, removal of the layer of the dead skin cells means that the skin loses some of its protection. So it is highly recommended to make use of sunscreens before going out in the sun. And this has to be continued for a few days after the treatment.

To conclude, it is important to know that use of microdermabrasion for back acne, is good for reducing the chances of acne outbreaks, and for improving the look of acne scars of milder degree. However, it may not help in the case of deeper acne scars, and may not be suitable on all skin affected with acne.