Dermabrasion

Common Questions

What can I expect after the procedure?
The first day your skin will have a reddish hue moist surface and you may experience some slight to moderate stinging or burning. The doctor's Formula or a soothing, healing ointment, will be applied before you leave the office. You will also be given a supply to take home with you, and it may be reapplied as needed to alleviate dryness or discomfort.

You may notice small areas of crustiness. Forty-eight hours after your dermabrasion, begin washing your face once a day with Cetaphil or Biomedic Gentle Cleansing Gelee and water, followed by a thin layer of ointment. Cover your entire face, including the lips. You should also apply ointment at night before you go to bed. Continue with this program until your skin is completely healed.

The new skin underneath will be pinkish and soft, much like a baby's. It is extremely important that you prevent direct or reflected sunlight from reaching your skin during the first two weeks.

When can makeup be worn?

Once crustiness has disappeared, makeup can be worn. (This usually takes seven to ten days.) We suggest you wear only hypoallergenic products. Before using any cosmetic, you should test for hypersensitivity by placing a small dab in front of your ear. If, after 24 hours, there is no sign of redness, itching, or irritation, the product is safe to use.

Your skin may continue to look pink for several weeks. The tightness and itchiness will improve over several days to a few weeks.

Are all dermabrasions the same?

When a deeper or more aggressive dermabrasion is performed, the risks increase. These include increased or decreased pigmentation, streaking, demarcation lines, enlargement of pores, cysts, cold sores, hypersensitivity to sun and make-up, red vein and spider growth, and, although rarely, scarring.

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