Dermabrasion is a type of skin "sanding" procedure first developed to improve acne scars and pox marks.

Today, it is used to treat other skin conditions like tattoo scars, age spots, and wrinkles.

The treatment itself involves a high-speed rotary instrument with an abrasive wheel or brush. It removes the outer layers of the skin, which generates the growth of new skin and improves irregularities on the skin surface - resulting in smoother skin.

There are a few problems dermabrasion can't help: Skin birth defects, most moles, birthmarks, or burn scars.

The Procedure:

This is typically done in an Operating room. Your doctor will first apply a special spray to freeze your skin, and then perform the dermabrasion. Depending on how much of the face is treated the procedure can last from 15 minutes to one hour.

Common Side Effects:

Side effects are uncommon but they do occur. There may be temporary, uneven changes in skin color and skin darkening. Darkening of the skin usually occurs because of sun exposure in the days and months following surgery.

Recovery:

After the procedure, your skin will feel as though it has been severely "brush-burned" for a few days. Your doctor can prescribe or recommend medications to help reduce any discomfort you may have, such as an over-the-counter pain reliever. Healing usually occurs within seven to 10 days.

The newly formed skin, which is pink at first, gradually develops a normal color. In most cases, the pinkness largely fades by six to eight weeks. Makeup can be used as a cover-up as soon as the skin is healed.

Generally, most people can resume their normal activities in seven to 14 days after dermabrasion. Patients are instructed to avoid unnecessary direct and indirect sunlight for three months after the procedure and to use sunscreen on a regular basis when outdoors.