Dermabrasion is a skin resurfacing technique that is mainly used to treat facial scarring. During this procedure in Phoenix, superficial layers of the epidermis are removed to smooth the skin. Dermabrasion may also be used to treat deep facial lines and wrinkles, sun damage and uneven skin tone.

Dermabrasion treatment can have several side effects, including:

Redness and Swelling: After dermabrasion, treated skin will be red and swollen. Swelling will begin to decrease within a few days to one week but might last for weeks or even months.

Enlarged Pores: Dermabrasion might cause your pores to grow larger. Typically, pores shrink to near normal size after any swelling decreases.

Changing Skin Color: Dermabrasion often causes treated skin to temporarily become darker than normal (hyperpigmentation), lighter than normal (hypopigmentation) or blotchy. These problems are more common in people who have darker skin and can sometimes be permanent.

White Bumps: You might notice tiny white bumps (milia) on treated skin. These bumps usually disappear on their own or with the use of soap or an abrasive pad.

Infection: Rarely, dermabrasion can lead to a bacterial, fungal or viral infection such as a flare-up of the herpes virus — the virus that causes cold sores.

Scarring: Rarely, dermabrasion that’s done too deeply can cause scarring. Steroid medications can be used to soften the appearance of these scars.

Skin reactions: If you often develop allergic skin rashes or other skin reactions, dermabrasion might cause your skin to flare up.

Dermabrasion isn’t for everyone. Dr. Holy might caution against dermabrasion if you:

  • Have recently taken certain medications
  • Have a personal or family history of ridged areas caused by an overgrowth of scar tissue (keloids)
  • Have acne or other pus-filled skin condition
  • Have recurrent herpes simplex infections
  • Have burn scars or skin that’s been damaged by radiation treatments

To find out if dermabrasion is right for you, contact The Center for Advanced Dermatology at 602-867-7546 or mddermsolutions.com to schedule a consultation.