The first impression a person makes is about your face, so you need to put your best face forward – literally speaking. And you want it to look its best. Unfortunately the perfect unblemished face is a very difficult thing to find. Stress and worry lines, wrinkles, discolorations and uneven tones, acne and scars, are usually the lot with most people’s faces.

Of these, acne can be a major source of concern as it leaves ugly, unbecoming scars behind. These scars become even more noticeable as you age and the skin loses its collagen layer. The good news is that you don’t have to live with these scars as there are procedures available that can greatly reduce acne scarring.

Microdermabrasion is one of the many procedures that your dermatologist is armed with to help rejuvenate your skin. Tiny crystals are used to exfoliate off the dead cells and impurities from the surface of the skin which are then sucked off with a built-in vacuum. The end-result is a brighter and glowing complexion.

The procedure involves the use of a wand-like handheld device studded with tiny crystals or even diamonds that gently remove the outer layer of your skin to reveal the smooth even-toned skin beneath. Another way that microdermabrasion works is by firing off tiny crystals onto your face under the influence of high pressure. The crystals used are usually aluminum oxide, but other compounds can also be used. The good thing about microdermabrasion is it’s a skin rejuvenating procedure that isn’t invasive and doesn’t use chemicals.

It’s often referred to as a ‘lunch break procedure’ that causes minimum discomfort and has been likened to a cat licking your skin. It doesn’t require any recuperation time and neither does it require any anesthetic jabs as it’s comparatively less aggressive than other dermabrasion procedures. The procedure is safe for all skin types and can help in reducing and repairing scars left behind by acne. However do note that you can’t undergo the procedure if you are having an active outburst of acne on your skin.

The procedure has additional benefits like improving blood circulation under the skin, hence enhancing production of collagen and elastin, thus improving your skin’s texture. It also combats blackheads and closes pores giving the skin a smoother appearance.

When the procedure is performed by an experienced dermatologist/cosmetologist, there are no risks involved. And if you are living in Bangalore, then your best bet is the Dr Dixit Cosmetic Dermatology Clinic, where this procedure is routinely practiced by experts like Dr Rasya Dixit.

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The information provided in Dr. Dixit's answer is for educational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical advice. The information provided should not be relied upon as a substitute for consultations with a qualified health professional who may be familiar with your individual medical needs.