Even in a temperate climate like Petaluma, exposure to the sun can leave your skin wrinkled, spotted, and uneven in tone and texture. The sun’s ultraviolet rays are notorious for damaging the elastin in our skin and prolonged exposure can cause the skin to sag, bruise, or tear more easily. You can help protect yourself this winter by making microdermabrasion a part of your skin care routine.
One safe, non-invasive procedure that brightens and smooths your skin is microdermabrasion. It is a mechanical exfoliation method that only affects the epidermis by removing the dead skin cells from the face, neck, chest and back area, allowing healthy skin cells to surface. Microdermabrasion requires little to no downtime, and you can see a noticeable difference in your skin after just one treatment with the small, hand-held wand your esthetician uses. However, several treatments are recommended for best results.
Winter weather can affect any type of skin. Someone with historically oily skin would likely benefit from a chemical peel, while those with drier skin would have positive results from exfoliation with a microdermabrasion. Combination skin might require a treatment that includes a mixture of both a microdermabrasion and a chemical peel. However, during the winter, all types of skin can become dry and itchy. That’s why this procedure would be effective for any skin dried out by cold weather.
Try to schedule your microdermabrasion with a licensed esthetician a few days in advance of having it done, and don’t use other exfoliation methods at home prior to your appointment. You don’t want your skin to be too sensitive when your treatment is performed. Direct sunlight can be damaging to otherwise healthy skin prior to exfoliation, so it is wise to limit your exposure to the sun before the procedure to prevent hypersensitivity afterward.
It’s also important to limit exposure to the sun after having a microdermabrasion procedure. Exfoliants are not necessary for several days after the procedure has been performed and can actually be harmful, as the dead skin cells have already been removed. Further exfoliation can irritate your skin, and that pretty much negates the results you just paid for! Skin care products are better able to penetrate the skin after it has been through a microdermabrasion, so this can be a great time to start a new skin care regimen that includes a moisturizer that is right for your skin type.
Worrying about how the winter weather affects your skin doesn’t have to be a reason for sitting home all season. Microdermabrasion can help keep your skin healthy, smooth, and glowing. Remember to take care of your skin by keeping it well covered when you’re outdoors, and by keeping it well hydrated with a good moisturizer. Contact your local skin care professional to find out if microdermabrasion is right for you.