Possible to Do Dermabrasion at Home?

Question

I have two acne scars on my nose and a few on my chin and cheeks.  the ones on my nose are driving me nuts.  Docs say not bad enough for dermabrasions and laser wont do the trick.  I don't get why they wont try.  I've told them I trade a flat scar that I can atleast cover w/ make up.  Sooo I'm considering using med grade sandpaper and doing it myself.  Even roughing up the edges to smooth it out.  Or maybe an aggressive microderabrasion on edges of scars would work??  Suggestions

William A. Wallace, MD, FACS · Answer

A friend of mine once told me the most common phrase spoken right before a bad idea was acted upon is: "Hey, watch this!"

	Dermabrasion, while an effective technique for skin resurfacing for scars and fine wrinkles, is PAINFUL!!! 

	Plus, it is not difficult to go TOO DEEP if you are not trained in the technique. Too deep means full thickness destruction of skin that would then require surgery to correct, resulting in a scar worse than the one you tried to correct...

Pat Pazmino, MD, FACS · Answer

Dermabrasion is an excellent technique that effectively resurfaces the skin.

	Dermabrasion is an excellent technique to correct scars, uneven surfaces, or to rejuvenate the areas around the lips by erasing wrinkles. It can smooth out depressions or uneven surfaces of the skin and can reduce prominent scars as well. Depending on the area that is treated, this may be done with local or regional anesthesia. This technique must be performed by a doctor and cannot be done at home. Home dermabrasion kits may produce mild exfoliation which can make your skin feel better, but will not change its overall appearance.

Chad L. Prather, MD · Answer

Dermabrasion is a medical procedure fraught with risks, especially when attempting at home.  You are very likely to end up with either no results, or even worse, more scarring, pigmentation problems, and possibly infection.
Please do not try dermabrasion at home.  For dermabrasion to work, it needs to be performed to the level of the skin where scarring can occur.
Rather, see a professional who treats acne scars.  It sounds like you just haven't found the right physician yet.  You may need other treatments, such as subcision, grafting, etc. combined with dermabrasion for best results.
I perform dermabrasion on a weekly basis in my practice, and it's a great technique.  But, like surgery (which it is), it is best left to the experts.

Possible to Do Dermabrasion at Home?

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Possible to Do Dermabrasion at Home?

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Everything you need to know about Dermabrasion

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.