Indications

As an alternative to laser resurfacing, chemical peels, and dermabrasion, microdermabrasion is indicated for similar skin issues but with the limitation of having relatively superficial results. Microdermabrasion, described as a “skin polishing,” is used for atrophic acne scars, mild facial rhytids, clogged pores, traumatic scars [81], enlarged pores, brown spots, stretch marks [86], melasma, keratosis pilaris, and to improve skin texture [81]. Hernandez-Perez admitted to less-than-satisfactory results when treating melasma [87]. Microdermabrasion has also been used to prime the skin for superficial chemical peels by stripping the stratum corneum to ensure more even absorption [81].When used in conjunction with microdermabrasion, traditional superficial chemical peeling agents can help many physicians achieve mediumdepth chemical peel results with fewer side effects. Anatomic sites treated safely and successfully include face, hands, neck, chest [86], and back [81].