What to Expect After Dermabrasion

Questions This Article Answers:

1. How does dermabrasion affect the skin?

2. How long does it take to recover from dermabrasion?

3. Will I need dermabrasion again?

People of all ages have success with dermabrasion. Along with the similar procedure microdermabrasion, dermabrasion exfoliates the skin to improve its appearance. Unlike a more intense chemical peel, which can require weeks of recovery, dermabrasion is a relatively mild procedure with few side effects. If you are still a little nervous, knowing what to expect after dermabrasion can help ease your anxiety and get you back to your everyday life quicker.

Dermabrasion usually takes place in your doctor’s office or an outpatient surgery center. Your skin will feel raw and irritated and will be red and swollen after dermabrasion. Your doctor will put ointment and gauze or a bandage on the treated area.

Pain is usually minimal. However, your doctor may prescribe pain medication to make you more comfortable.

You will be able to go home soon after dermabrasion. Have a friend or family member drive you home because you may be drowsy from sedative medicine.

Recovery time varies and depends on the extent of your treatment. It generally takes 7 to 10 days for your skin to heal. It may take up to three months for the pink color to completely fade. Plan to take at least a week off from work, school, or other commitments while you recover. You can gradually continue your regular activities as your energy level picks up.

Keep in mind, depending on the area treated, it may be difficult to eat and speak for a few days after the procedure.

As your skin begins to heal, it will itch and a crusty scab may form over the wound. Try not to scratch or pick the scab. It will fall off on its own as your skin heals. Best results come by letting the treated skin heal naturally. Your doctor may prescribe an ointment for the area and a steroid cream to keep the area moist and to ease swelling.

Follow your doctor’s specific instructions on how to care for your skin after dermabrasion. Here are some general tips:

• Clean your skin daily as recommended by your doctor.
• Keep the treatment areas moist using the prescribed ointment.
• Avoid sun exposure until your skin is completely healed. After the peeling has stopped, wear sunscreen every day.
• Avoid active sports for 4 to 6 weeks.
• Do not swim in a chlorinated pool for at least four weeks.
• Don’t drink alcohol for at least 3 to 4 weeks to avoid flushing your skin.

Sometimes acne or tiny whiteheads appear following dermabrasion. They are temporary. Dermabrasion can also trigger a flare-up of cold sores. Tell your doctor if you develop cold sores after dermabrasion.

The long-term results of dermabrasion depend on the reason for having it. You will see good results after one treatment for minor scars and fine lines and wrinkles. You may not need any other treatments.

You may need more than one treatment for deeper scars and more significant signs of aging. Ask your doctor how many treatments you’re likely to need.

Follow-up doctor appointments are important to make sure your skin is healing properly and to check for signs of infection. Between appointments, call your doctor if:

• You develop a fever and chills.
• You have excessive swelling and bleeding, increasing pain, or discharge from the area.
• Your skin becomes increasingly red, raised and itchy after it has begun to heal.