Is Microdermabrasion Appropriate for Older Skin with Mild Acne?

Question

My dermatologist recommends I get microdermabrasion to help improve my acne prone skin. I am 60 years old. He says I should stop using retin-a several days prior to treatment and that he will use a very mild setting. Should I trust him?

F. Victor Rueckl, MD (in memoriam) · Answer

Traditional microdermabrasion isn't an effective treatment for active acne. The only way it is is with a treatment like a Silkpeel, in which a microdermabrasion is done while the machine infuses solutions like salicylic acid to help with acne. General microdermabrasion is just a light exfoliation - it doesn't help with acne.

Mitchell Schwartz, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

I believe that microdermabrasion will cause only a slight improvement in acne, at best. Even that may be due to better penetration of topical medication after your treatment. 60 years is not too old for treatment. Microdermabrasion works best as an exfoliating treatment for dull or rough skin, age spots, fine lines, wrinkles, and sun damaged,skin. Microdermabrasion accelerates the cellular turnover process and mildly stimulates your skin to produce new collagen.

Is Microdermabrasion Appropriate for Older Skin with Mild Acne?

Answers (2)