Microdermabrasion: Reappraisal and brief review of literature

BACKGROUND Microdermabrasion (MDA) is a recently introduced noninvasive, nonsurgical, office-based esthetic procedure for revitalizing and rejuvenating the skin. It is a closed-loop vacuum-assisted abrasive procedure, which uses the physical action of inert crystals to exfoliate the skin. OBJECTIVE The aim was to evaluate the procedure of MDA in postacne scarring, melasma, and facial rejuvenation, and review the relevant literature. METHODS Ten patients each of postacne scarring, melasma, and facial rejuvenation were treated by a series of weekly MDA sittings alone or in conjunction with a topical retinoid. The results were assessed by patient questionnaire and an objective assessment by two independent observers. The literature was reviewed to find indications and efficacy of MDA. RESULTS All the patients of postacne scarring, melasma, and facial rejuvenation reported a mild but definite improvement, which increased when MDA was performed in conjunction with a topical retinoid. Most of the literature based on subjective and patient-dependent assessment parameters points toward a marginal improvement in the skin appearance following repeated procedures. CONCLUSION Reappraisal of this potentially useful procedure points toward a need for well-designed clinical trials and studies with a long follow-up based on objective assessment parameters.