Microdermabrasion

If you are dealing with sun damage, melasma, fine lines or acne scars, microdermabrasion is a gentle yet effective means of improving these skin concerns. Since our doors opened in 2018, The Med Spa at Matthews Internal Medicine has offered expert microdermabrasion sessions to clients in the Matthews, NC and greater Charlotte area. Book your appointment today and discover The Med Spa difference!

Microdermabrasion at The Med Spa at MIM

Microdermabrasion is a noninvasive cosmetic procedure that rejuvenates the skin through mechanical exfoliation. It’s performed using a small handheld device that sprays tiny crystals against the skin to gently abrade its surface and vacuum up the dead exfoliated cells. 

This procedure noticeably smooths and brightens the skin in a single session, with even greater results after 4–6 treatments. It encourages collagen and elastin production and helps the skin better absorb products, making them more effective. 

Before and After Photos

Please note the patients featured in these images may have undergone additional cosmetic treatments to enhance the effects of their microdermabrasion treatments. This photo gallery does not guarantee that everyone who undergoes microdermabrasion will obtain these or similar results.

Am I a Good Candidate for Microdermabrasion?

Almost anyone can be a good candidate for microdermabrasion – we work with men and women of all ages and skin types. Microdermabrasion is an effective treatment for a range of skin concerns such as:

• Dry, flakey skin
• Enlarged pores
• Excess sebum (oiliness)
• Fine lines and wrinkles
• Hyperpigmentation
• Melasma
• Redness
• Sallowness 
• Scarring, including acne scars
• Stretch marks
• Sun damage
• Uneven skin tone and texture

However, anyone with an active skin infection or lesion of any type should wait until symptoms resolve before undergoing this procedure. If you have rosacea or fragile capillaries, inform your aesthetician to see if microdermabrasion is right for you. 

If you’ve had a course of Accutane, wait 6–12 months before undergoing this procedure.

What to Expect During a Microdermabrasion Session

Your microdermabrasion treatment can be performed the same day as your skin consultation – there’s no need to schedule a separate appointment.

During the session, your aesthetician will first prepare your skin by cleansing your face; your skin must be as dry and oil-free as possible for optimal results. 

You’ll be provided with protective eyewear, and the aesthetician will pass the device three times over each area of your face. Next, they will cleanse your face again and apply a mask customized for your skin type. Lastly, they will apply a corrective serum and sunscreen; the entire procedure takes only 30–60 minutes.

Recovery and Results

Microdermabrasion involves minimal recovery time. After a session, you may experience redness, swelling or tenderness that fades within a few hours. Small red spots known as petechiae, which indicate bleeding beneath the skin, should also resolve the same day.

Care for your skin by keeping your face moisturized, avoiding direct sun, exfoliants or topical acne products for at least 48 hours post treatment. Your skin will remain sensitive to light for about 3 weeks, so it is important to wear a sunscreen of at least 30 SPF during that period. Avoid picking at or scrubbing your skin, which could cause scarring.

You’ll see a noticeable difference in your skin after a single treatment, but most people opt for at least 4 sessions for best results. Afterward, we recommend undergoing microdermabrasion approximately every 3 weeks to maintain your new look.

Related and Alternative Treatments

The Med Spa offers several other treatments with similar effects. These procedures can be performed in conjunction with or in place of microdermabrasion.

Many of our patients undergo a spa facial after their microdermabrasion session. Our facials include an in-depth skin analysis, a deep cleansing, customized treatment, extractions, massage, a mask and corrective serum, with the option to treat just your face, or your neck and decollete as well.

Alternatively, a chemical peel can be paired with your treatment. A peel chemically exfoliates your face to reveal brighter, younger looking skin. When performed immediately after microdermabrasion, it’s even more effective.

If you’re looking to address deeper wrinkles or severe acne scarring, a more aggressive treatment may provide faster results. Radio frequency microneedling combines traditional microneedling with radio frequency energy to tone, tighten and smooth the skin. 

Microdermabrasion FAQ

How do I prepare for a microdermabrasion session?

One week before your treatment, discontinue the use of all exfoliating products and NSAIDs and do not wax your face. Avoid excessive sun exposure for 7–14 days before treatment; if you get a sunburn during that period, you’ll need to reschedule the appointment.

Can I wear makeup after a microdermabrasion treatment?

If desired, you may apply mineral-based makeup immediately after your session. However, we recommend letting your skin breathe to speed up the healing process.

How does microdermabrasion help acne?

Acne occurs when pores are blocked by excess sebum and dead skin cells, trapping bacteria inside. Through regular exfoliation, you can eliminate these acne triggers and stop blemishes from developing. Microdermabrasion also helps postinflammatory hyperpigmentation caused by acne heal more rapidly.

Is microdermabrasion safe?

Microdermabrasion is considered extremely safe, especially when performed by a qualified aesthetician in a professional setting. All equipment will be sterilized before your treatment, and your provider will use fresh sponges and towels to reduce the risk of infection.

For people with very sensitive skin, possible risks include light bruising, redness, scabbing and peeling. These symptoms will heal without permanently damaging the skin.

How long do the results last?

Your microdermabrasion results’ longevity is related to how you care for your skin. We advise wearing sunscreen every day and cleansing your skin with a mild exfoliant a few times a week between treatments. For best results, schedule regular maintenance treatments approximately every 6 weeks.