What is dermabrasion?

Dermabrasion is an effective procedure done under local anaesthetic for the treatment of skin imperfections. A high speed brush with a spinning disc is used to remove the outer surface layer of skin (epidermis) to allow for regrowth of new skin tissue. The uneven, old scar tissue is replaced to alter the contour of the scar. The deep exfoliating effects of dermabrasion treatments can often remove deep wrinkles around the chin and mouth area, some scars and surface pigmentation.

How are acne marks and other scars formed?

Acne scars occur as a result of the body’s inflammatory response to the skin oils (sebum), bacteria and dead skin cells which form blockages in the pores of the skin. These blockages result in a plug like formation and begin to develop in the follicle of the skins pore. This causes local inflammation and the body releases white blood cells to fight of infections and repair damaged skin tissue. Fibrous scar tissue, eroded skin tissue or an increased amount of skin tissue may result (keloid scar).

The extent of scarring differs between each individual as it is dependent on the different skin types (oily or dry) and the condition (chicken pox, acne) resulting in the formation of the scars. There are two types of scar formation :

Depressed scars such as ‘ice pick scarring’ usually occurs due to a lack of skin tissue formation. The scars are usually firm and appear with irregular edges. A depressed scar can improve when the skin is stretched such as periods of growth spurts or weight gain. Depressed scars are also known as ‘crater scars’ or ‘pock marks’.

Raised scars which are also known as keloid or hypertrophic scars occur with an increase in tissue formation. An excessive build-up of cell substance called collagen forms a raised scar. The scar appears smooth with an irregular shaped border resulting in the abnormal growth of scar tissue.

What are the benefits of dermabrasion treatments?

Dermabrasion is often use in the treatment of acne scaring, removal of tattoos, pigmentation, birth marks, liver spots, keloid and chicken pox scaring, freckles and sun damaged skin. The appearance of the skin is improved with long lasting effects of the treatment. Dermabrasion resurfaces the skin and removes severe imperfections. The principle behind dermabrasion involves causing inflammation to the skin and allowing it to heal, hopefully removing pre-existing imperfections. Medicated creams or vitamin-rich ointments, usually high in vitamin A, may be applied to allow the skin to heal more effectively.

What are the side effects of dermabrasion?

Dermabrasion is not suitable for all types of scars, like ice pick scars, as the scar can become more noticeable if it appears wider after treatment. The abrasive technique of dermabrasion may aggravate pigmentation or melasma. After the treatment of dermabrasion the skin usually appears raw and irritated which leaves the area treated more susceptible to pressure and light or sun sensitivity. Infections can occur after the dermabrasion treatment which can result in further scarring and leave the skin looking worse that it initially appeared. Individuals that suffer with conditions such as rashes due to allergic reactions may have adverse effects to the dermabrasion treatments.