Soon you’ll be the center of attention! You will be the reason for all the oooos, aaahs and ooohs uttered as you march down the aisle. Your dress, your hair, your make-up – all primped and primed to perfection. But that skin, “How did she get that skin?” they’ll say. Maybe it was microdermabrasion, a popular facial treatment that everyone is talking about. World Bride Magazine is here to provide the “who, what, where, when, and why” of microdermabrasion for a quick sure-fire way to achieve that polished radiant glow!
Who
Simply put – ANYONE. From your fiancé to your bridesmaids, to your sisters and brothers – everyone can benefit. What’s good for the goose is good for the gander. Microdermabrasion is effective on all skin colors and types – even sensitive skin.
What
Microdermabrasion, often dubbed the “lunch-time peel,” is a quick, non-invasive, exfoliation procedure that sloughs away dead dull skin. A stream of tiny crystals is emitted onto the skin’s surface via a hand-held wand. The crystals are then vacuumed by the hand piece under controlled pressure across the surface of the skin, resulting in a gentle polishing process, or abrasion, which stimulates the production of skin cells and collagen. What you’re left with is a clear and healthy glow.
Where
Microdermabrasion typically is performed by a doctor or a licensed esthetician at a doctor’s office, spa, or medi-spa. Since this treatment is just a step up from a facial and easy to administer, many places that provide facials also provide microdermabrasion.
When
While there are really no reported negative side effects associated with this procedure, other than possible dry flaky skin for a couple of days and some pinkness, start a few months before the big day to be safe. This will give you enough time to tell how you’re skin will react. After your skin care professional examines your skin and completes the first procedure, he or she will recommend when and how many times you should return for optimal results. Usually a series of six is recommended, once weekly in the beginning and then bi-monthly. But depending on your skin type, it may take more or less.
Why
Here are the top 5 reasons why they say to see what all the fuss is about. Microdermabrasion:
1. Exfoliates and improves skin texture and tone leaving skin revitalized
2. Helps correct uneven pigmentation and reduce scarring and age spots
3. Helps soften the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
4. Deeply cleans and minimizes pores
5. Is non-invasive and almost painless
Research & Plan Ahead
Before zipping off to your nearest medi-spa, do some research on microdermabrasion providers in your area and pick the one with which you feel the most comfortable. Make sure you schedule a consultation and appointments well in advance of your wedding day, and heed all your skin care professional’s precautions, such as avoiding sun exposure for a limited period and holding off on applications of irritating cosmetic products. Work closely with your skin care professional to determine what works best for you. As for cost, prices vary depending on location, but the range is usually from about $80 to around $200 per session. With proper planning, microdermabrasion coupled with a good skin-care regimen can help you achieve your skin’s radiant potential. So get glowing!
~Lara Abrahão