Is Microdermabrasion Safe While on Retin-A?

Patients seeking a non-surgical method to rejuvenate and refresh their facial skin need look no further than microdermabrasion. It is safe to be on Retin- A and most of our patients are on this helpful medication if tolerated.Microdermabrasion is a less aggressive technique than dermabrasion. It is effective for treating:light scarringdiscolorationsun damagestretch marks

Tretinoin therapy used in conjunction with microdermabrasion is safe and can produce a very nice result in the skin with regards to overall rejuvenation.  It is very common to experience skin sensitivity while on the topical, therefore I recommend discontinuing it's use for 2 weeks prior to a microdermabrasion and 1 week post-treatment.  Retin-A can then be resumed per your physician's directions for use.

Using Retin-A in combination with the microdermabrasion treatments will only enhance the results. It is recommended for patients to stop using the Retin-A 3-4days up to 1 week prior and after the treatment to prevent being extremely sensitive during the treatment. Using sun protection every day is a must when using any Retin-A  and doing any medical spa treatments.

It is not uncommon to use both Retin-A and other hydroxy acids simultaneously with microdermabrasion treatments. But most doctors will likely stop your Retin-A treatment either two weeks or a couple of days before your first microdermabrasion treatment. Note that since you have been on Retina-a, you may have more redness and scabbing after microdermabrasion than if you were not on Retin-A. 

Microdermabrasion and Retin-A.
Retin-A is a proprietary name for tretinoin. The active ingredient is a derivative of Vitamin A and stimulates the cell cycle, thereby inducing exfoliation and deposition of linear collagen in the dermis.
In the early stage of treatment, tretinoin can cause redness, exfoliation, and sensitivity of the skin. As the treatment progresses, the skin will increasingly become tolerant of the Retin-A. The result, a smoother complexion with eradication of fine lines and increased skin resiliency.
Microdermabrasion is a mechanical form of exfoliation. There are many variants. In our Santa Monica office, we utilize two more predictable and effective treatment modalities of mechanical exfoliation. The first is a diamond microdermabrasion that we use routinely with Retin-A treatment. Second, we use a water based exfoliation that infuses enzymes and acids to loosen cellular and pore debris prior to exfoliation to effect a more effective treatment without the intense abrasive effects.