Published by Dr. Brandon Richland, MD
Dermabrasion is a medically supervised skin-resurfacing procedure designed to renew your complexion by gently removing damaged outer layers and revealing fresh, radiant skin beneath. Whether you want to diminish acne scars, deep wrinkles, or uneven texture, dermabrasion offers dramatic results for a noticeably smoother and more youthful appearance.
At our Newport Beach MedSpa, you benefit from experienced, board-certified professionals who tailor treatments to your skin’s unique needs. Our welcoming environment blends medical precision with spa-like comfort, ensuring you feel relaxed and confident throughout your journey. We’re proud to be trusted by Newport Beach locals for our commitment to safety, quality, and outstanding results.
Dermabrasion is ideal for individuals seeking to improve the appearance of acne scars, surgical scars, age lines, or rough skin texture. Good candidates are in overall good health, have realistic expectations, and do not have conditions that may affect healing (such as active infections or a history of keloids). To ensure your safety and satisfaction, our team conducts a thorough evaluation before recommending treatment.
Newport Beach’s vibrant, sun-filled lifestyle can take a toll on your skin. Fall and winter are ideal times to rejuvenate, giving your skin a chance to heal before the summer sun returns. Appointments fill quickly as residents prepare for the beach and social season, so don’t wait to reserve your spot.
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Request a Consultation (In Person & Virtual) or call us at 949.867.4496 to schedule your personalized dermabrasion assessment today.
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Selecting the right medical spa specialist in Newport Beach, California (CA) for dermabrasion ensures safety and effective results. Individuals should consider qualifications, certifications, and personal comfort with the specialist.
Qualifications Matter: Verify the specialist’s credentials. Check if they are certified by a recognized medical or nursing board. Aestheticians and Estheticians offer microdermabrasion treatment, which is less invasive, while dermatologists provide full dermabrasion.
Experience and Training: Experience in performing dermabrasion is crucial. Look for professionals with extensive training and hands-on experience.
Reviews and Recommendations: Read reviews from previous clients and seek recommendations. Personal experiences can provide insights into the quality and professionalism of the specialist.
Regular microdermabrasion is especially recommended for individuals dealing with specific skin concerns. This gentle, non-invasive treatment can be particularly effective for:
By integrating microdermabrasion into a regular skincare routine, often on a monthly basis, patients can help maintain smoother, clearer skin, particularly when combined with a tailored home regimen. This approach supports ongoing results, making it easier to address ongoing concerns and keep skin looking its best.
For those with sensitive skin, microdermabrasion can be an appealing choice. This treatment uses tiny crystals to gently exfoliate the outer layer of skin, removing dead skin cells without harsh chemicals or invasive methods. Because there are no strong acids or abrasive ingredients involved, microdermabrasion is considered milder than many chemical peels.
People who tend to react to common skincare ingredients often find microdermabrasion comfortable and effective. The process is designed to refresh and brighten the complexion in a gentle way, making it suitable for those who are cautious about upsetting their skin’s natural balance.
However, as with any cosmetic procedure, it’s always wise to discuss your skin’s unique sensitivities during your consultation. A qualified specialist at a Newport Beach MedSpa can evaluate your skin type and recommend the safest approach, sometimes even performing a patch test to ensure there’s no unexpected irritation.
Ultimately, microdermabrasion offers a gentle, chemical-free alternative for people seeking improvement in skin tone and texture, without the worry of harsh reactions.
Microdermabrasion offers a gentle yet effective option for those seeking overall skin rejuvenation, especially if you’re looking for less downtime than traditional dermabrasion. Some of the main benefits include:
These benefits make microdermabrasion a versatile, minimally invasive option for improving overall skin tone and texture with little to no recovery time.
A consultation for dermabrasion at a MedSpa allows patients to discuss their skin concerns and learn about the procedure.
During the consultation, patients should ask specific questions to better understand the treatment. They can inquire about the aesthetician’s experience with dermabrasion and if the procedure is suitable for their skin type and concerns.
Key questions include:
Patients should also ask about the insurance coverage and cost of treatments, as well as any pre- and post-treatment care recommendations.
Patients will first have their medical history reviewed to ensure they are good candidates for dermabrasion. The provider will evaluate their skin type, concerns, and any specific conditions such as skin pigmentation issues.
The consultation usually involves:
Patients can also expect to receive information about the procedure’s costs, the number of sessions required, and any possible side effects or risks. This thorough approach helps patients feel confident and well-prepared for their treatment.
Dermabrasion is a cosmetic treatment that targets various skin concerns by removing the skin’s outermost layers using specialized tools. It can reduce scars, acne, and wrinkles, resulting in smoother skin.
Dermabrasion: A cosmetic surgical procedure that sands away the top skin layers.
Local anesthesia: Medication applied to numb the treatment area.
Epidermis: The outermost layer of skin.
Dermis: The deeper layer beneath the epidermis.
Regeneration: The process of new skin growth after dermabrasion.
Sedative: Medication to help relax the patient during the procedure.
Numbing spray, used alongside local anesthesia or sedatives, helps reduce discomfort during the treatment. It’s important to consult with a physician to understand these terms better and discuss any concerns.
Dermabrasion techniques vary based on the tools used and the skin type. The most common methods include:
The choice between these methods depends largely on the patient’s skin type and the extent of the skin concerns. Both methods aim to remove dead skin cells and stimulate new skin cells growth.
Before starting, the patient’s skin is cleaned thoroughly. The physician may apply a numbing spray or local anesthesia to minimize discomfort. Sometimes, a sedative is given for relaxation.
This process can be used to treat acne scars and reduce the appearance of wrinkles. The skin’s regeneration process eventually leads to healthier-looking skin. The procedure typically takes between 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the size of the area being treated.
It is important to consider these variables to understand the overall expense.
The cost of dermabrasion in Newport Beach, CA can range from $100 to $5,000 per session. The average price often falls between $1,296 and $2,075. Key factors affecting the cost include the type of the treatment, the experience of the provider, and the length and complexity of the procedure.
Patients should also consider whether they will need multiple sessions, as this can increase the total cost. It’s advisable to request a detailed estimate during the initial consultation.
Dermabrasion can offer remarkable improvements in skin appearance but comes with both benefits and risks. It is important to know what to expect and consider the pros and cons before deciding on this treatment.
Pros:
Cons:
This balance of benefits and risks highlights the importance of consulting with a qualified professional before undergoing dermabrasion.
Dermabrasion is a procedure that helps improve skin appearance, but it has some side effects, risks, and potential complications. It is important for patients to be aware of these before undergoing the treatment.
Side Effects: Patients often experience redness and swelling of the skin after dermabrasion. The treated skin will look red and swollen for several days; in some cases, the swelling might last for weeks. Increased sensitivity and blotchiness in the new skin are also common for a few weeks. Pain is usually minimal but can be managed with over-the-counter medications.
Typical Reactions: Most people notice that their skin appears pink and may feel slightly tender or tight, similar to experiencing a mild sunburn or windburn, immediately after the procedure. These sensations generally fade within a day or two.
Comfort and Care: Applying a gentle moisturizer can help soothe the treated area and support the healing process. It’s important to skip makeup for at least the first 24 hours to allow your skin to recover properly.
Sun Protection: After microdermabrasion, your skin will be more sensitive to sun exposure. Be sure to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen, such as those from Neutrogena or La Roche-Posay, and consider wearing a wide-brimmed hat if you plan to spend time outdoors.
Recovery Timeline: Most patients see their skin return to its normal color within a week to ten days, and all regular activities can typically be resumed after about two weeks.
Risks: There are risks involved, such as infection and scarring. Infection can occur if the treated area is not kept clean and protected. Scarring can happen if the skin does not heal properly or if complications arise during healing. Proper aftercare is crucial to minimize these risks.
After microdermabrasion, it’s normal for your skin to appear pink or slightly flushed, similar to a mild sunburn or windburn. This typically resolves within 24 hours. During the first day, avoid applying makeup to give your skin a chance to recover. Instead, focus on keeping the area moisturized with a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer, this helps soothe the skin and speeds up the healing process.
It’s also important to minimize sun exposure while your skin heals. If you need to go outside, wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) and a wide-brimmed hat for added protection. Sun safety is crucial, as the new skin is more sensitive and prone to sun damage.
Most people can expect full healing within 7 to 10 days. By two weeks, you should be able to resume all regular activities without restrictions. As always, follow any specific instructions from your provider to ensure the best possible results and reduce the risk of complications.
Getting ready for a dermabrasion procedure involves a few important steps. These preparations help ensure the best results and minimize potential risks.
Consultation with the Doctor
First, a consultation with the doctor is crucial. The doctor will review the patient’s medical history and examine their skin. This helps determine any underlying issues that might affect the procedure.
Medical History and Skin Examination
The doctor will discuss past surgeries, medications taken, and any skin conditions. Accuracy in sharing medical history is vital.
Skin Preparation
Skin preparation often includes avoiding direct sun exposure for at least two weeks before the procedure. Applying a prescribed ointment or cream to the skin, as directed by the doctor, can also be important to prep the skin.
Avoiding Smoking
Patients are usually advised to stop smoking at least a few weeks before the procedure. Smoking can affect blood flow and delay the healing process, making it essential to quit for better recovery.
Managing Medications
Certain medications, like blood thinners or aspirin, might need to be stopped before undergoing dermabrasion. The doctor will provide a list of medications to avoid.
Dermabrasion recovery is an essential part of the overall procedure. Knowing what to expect can help you plan and prepare for the healing time and downtime that follows.
Recovery time after dermabrasion varies but typically takes seven to ten days for new skin to start forming. During this period, patients may notice redness or pinkness in the treated area. This discoloration can last for several months but usually fades within six weeks.
Patients are often advised to use camouflage makeup to cover any residual redness. Keeping the skin moist with ointment and following specific post-procedure care guidelines from your surgeon is crucial for optimal healing. Resuming normal activities is usually possible within two weeks, but avoiding active sports is recommended for at least four to six weeks to prevent injury.
Microdermabrasion is a gentler procedure compared to traditional dermabrasion, and its recovery process is generally straightforward. Immediately following the treatment, your skin might appear pink or feel slightly sensitive, similar to a mild sunburn or windburn. Most people notice any discomfort fades within the first day.
To support healing, it’s best to use a gentle moisturizer and avoid applying makeup for the rest of the day. If you need to go outdoors, protect your skin with a broad-spectrum sunscreen and a hat, as your skin will be more sensitive to the sun.
Most individuals experience complete recovery in about seven to ten days. After this brief period, your skin tone should return to normal, and you can safely return to all usual activities, typically within two weeks. Proper skincare during this time helps ensure optimal results and reduces the risk of irritation or complications.
Taking care of your skin post-microdermabrasion is crucial to ensure smooth healing and protect your results. Certain activities and products should be avoided immediately following the procedure:
Stick to gentle cleansing, keep the treated area moisturized with a mild, fragrance-free product, and follow any specific aftercare instructions provided by your medical provider. With these precautions, most people experience full healing within a week to ten days and can return to normal activities after about two weeks.
After microdermabrasion, careful at-home skin care is key to encouraging healthy recovery and maintaining your results.
Moisturizers: A gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer, look for options like Cetaphil or Vanicream, can help soothe the skin and prevent dryness. Applying a hydrating product several times a day helps promote skin healing.
Sunscreen: Protecting your skin from the sun is crucial. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30, such as Neutrogena Ultra Sheer or La Roche-Posay Anthelios. Reapply it every two hours if you’re outdoors, and pairing this with a wide-brimmed hat adds extra protection.
Gentle Cleansers: Stick to mild, soap-free cleansers (try CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser or Dove Sensitive Skin) to avoid irritating the fresh skin. Avoid scrubbing or using exfoliating products for at least a week.
Avoidance of Make-Up: It’s best to skip foundation, powders, or blush for the first day after your treatment, let your skin breathe as it begins to heal.
For the best results, follow your provider’s specific aftercare instructions and listen to your skin’s needs as it recovers.
Most patients can return to their regular daily routine the day after microdermabrasion. The skin may appear pink, similar to a mild sunburn or windburn, for about 24 hours, and can feel sensitive or slightly tight during this period. Applying a gentle moisturizer will help soothe the skin and support healing.
It’s best to skip makeup for the first 24 hours to avoid irritation, and if you’ll be outdoors, make sure to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen and wear a wide-brimmed hat to protect your freshly treated skin. Typically, complete healing is expected within seven to ten days. After two weeks, you should be able to fully resume all normal activities, including exercise and active sports, with minimal concern.
Dermabrasion results can last for a significant amount of time, but the exact duration may vary based on factors like age, skin care routines, and lifestyle choices. It’s important to understand how this procedure impacts skin and what can be done to maintain its benefits.
Results from dermabrasion often show dramatic improvements in the skin’s texture and appearance. The new, smoother skin can remain vibrant for several months. The initial pinkness after the procedure usually fades in about three months.
Maintenance is key to prolonging these results. Regular skin care routines, including the use of moisturizers and gentle cleansers, can help keep the healthy glow skin looking fresh.
Age spots and lifestyle also play a role. Older individuals might find the effects wearing off sooner, while non-smoking, healthy individuals maintaining a balanced diet may enjoy longer-lasting results.
Sun exposure can greatly affect longevity. Using sunscreen everyday can protect the new, sensitive skin from harmful UV rays, preventing premature aging.
Microdermabrasion is gentler than dermabrasion, providing a milder refresh for the skin with far less downtime. Because it’s a less invasive option, the improvements it offers, like smoother texture and a brighter complexion, tend to be more subtle and temporary.
Most people notice results that last anywhere from six to twelve months before the benefits gradually diminish. To keep your skin looking its best, adopting a diligent skin care routine is essential. Using gentle cleansers, daily moisturizers, and sunscreen can all help maintain the refreshed look for as long as possible.
Since microdermabrasion is safe and well-tolerated, treatments can be repeated periodically, often every few months, to help extend and enhance results over time. Those who enjoy a quick rejuvenation with minimal risk frequently choose this option as part of their ongoing beauty regimen.
People often choose dermabrasion to improve their skin’s texture and appearance. It can make a big difference in how the skin looks, especially for conditions like acne scars and fine lines.
After undergoing dermabrasion, the skin may initially appear pink and sensitive. This is part of the healing process and usually lasts about three months.
Improved Skin Texture: Many notice their skin feeling significantly smoother. The procedure removes the top layers of skin, which can reduce rough patches and make the skin feel softer.
Enhanced Appearance: Dermabrasion can make a noticeable difference in the overall look of the skin. It helps to diminish the appearance of acne scars, fine lines, and other skin imperfections.
Rejuvenated Skin: As new skin replaces the old, the treated area often looks fresher and more youthful. This fresher skin is typically more even in tone and texture.
Additional Benefits: In some cases, dermabrasion also helps with removing precancerous growths called keratosis and treating deep acne scars, making the skin appear healthier.
Viewing patient photographs can help set realistic expectations and demonstrate the effectiveness of the treatment.
Before and after photos show the transformation patients can achieve with dermabrasion. These images are taken at various stages of the treatment process. Patients often search for these photos to see results similar to what they might expect.
Before photos typically show skin with visible imperfections such as acne scars, sun damage, or fine lines. After photos highlight the smoother, more even skin texture achieved post-treatment.
Dermabrasion treatment results are often visible within a few weeks after the procedure. Comparing before and after photos helps prospective patients understand potential outcomes. Clinics usually provide a variety of examples to showcase different skin types and issues treated by dermabrasion. Notably, every patient’s experience is unique, but these images can guide treatment expectations.
When it comes to medspa treatments, clients often highlight several consistent themes in their feedback:
Overall, the consensus reflects high satisfaction with both the experience and the results, clients often recommend their medspa to friends and family seeking expert cosmetic care.
Dr. Brandon Richland, MD is one of the best, most respected, top Board Certified Plastic Surgeons in Newport Beach, California specializing in cosmetic and reconstructive surgeries.
Driven by his passion for medicine, Dr. Richland obtained his Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) degree from the prestigious program at Saint Louis University (SLU) School of Medicine in 2013. His exceptional skills were recognized when he received the McGraw Hill / Lange Medical Student Academic Achievement Award, and graduated top of his class with Honors. For his undergraduate degree, he attended University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) and graduated with Honors in 2009.
To further enhance his surgical expertise, Dr. Richland completed his Residency in Plastic Surgery at the University of California, Irvine (UCI) from 2013 to 2019 earning the Academic Achievement Award twice during this period. A total of 14 years in dedicated schooling and medical residency.
Dr. Richland is actively involved with healthcare and medical societies, as a Diplomate of the American Board of Plastic Surgery, a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons, and the California Society of Plastic Surgeons.
Contact Dr. Richland’s Newport Beach Plastic Surgery office today by calling 949-867-6005, or visit RichlandMD.com to schedule your personalized plastic surgery consultation in Newport Beach.
Cover Image Credit: Puhhha / 123RF.com (Licensed). Photo Illustration by: Dr. Brandon Richland, MD.