Does Microdermabrasion Have Additional Risks for Dark Skin Types?

Thank you for your question. Microdermabrasion is a process by which the VERY top 1-2 layers of the top layer of the skin (epidermis) is removed either by a gentle rotary tool, or by microdermabrasion crystals. Microdermabrasion is safe for any skin type when done gently and appropriately. Darkening of the skin is more likely to occur in darker skinned patients, but usually happens when there is an inflammatory response (redness, swelling, etc). Customary microdermabrasion should not... more

The safety record of microdermabrasion is tried and true and should not result in any significant downtime. In the hands of experienced medical aesthetician under supervision of board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon, adverse events such as pigmentation or scarring is exceedingly rare. Regularly monthly microdermabrasion can be quite helpful pigmentation problems, superficial acne scarring, and overall facial rejuvenation. It is important, however, that one discontinue... more

Microdermabrasion can be performed in any skin type. The depth, duration, and intervals of treatment should be determined based on the oiliness of the skin, complexion, and texture of the skin. In darker skin patients, the microdermabrasion treatment can be performed without incident by an experienced physician. Postprocedural hyperpigmentation and scarring are rare events that occur with treatments that are excessively deep. Hydroquinone treatment should be prescribed synchronously with... more