What are the rules for microdermabrasion?
What Are the Rules for Microdermabrasion?
Microdermabrasion is a popular and effective exfoliation technique used to improve the texture and appearance of the skin. By removing dead skin cells and stimulating collagen production, microdermabrasion can help treat a variety of skin concerns, including acne scars, fine lines, and hyperpigmentation. However, like any skin treatment, it’s important to follow proper rules and guidelines to ensure the procedure is both safe and effective.
If you’re an esthetician or business owner interested in offering microdermabrasion, here’s what you need to know about the essential rules and regulations.
Licensing and Certification Requirements
In many states, estheticians must be licensed to perform microdermabrasion treatments. Before offering this service, you need to be a licensed esthetician, which typically involves completing an accredited training program in skin care and passing a state exam.
While basic esthetician training often covers general exfoliation techniques, many states and local regulations require estheticians to undergo additional certification specifically for microdermabrasion. This certification ensures that the esthetician understands how to properly operate the equipment, assess skin types, and handle potential complications.
Before offering microdermabrasion services, be sure to:
Check your state’s requirements for estheticians and any additional certifications required.
Keep your esthetician license and microdermabrasion certification up to date.
Understanding the Equipment
Microdermabrasion involves the use of a specialized device to exfoliate the skin, and different machines use different methods:
Crystal-based microdermabrasion: Uses a stream of tiny crystals that are sprayed onto the skin and vacuumed away.
Diamond-tipped microdermabrasion: Uses a diamond-coated wand to physically exfoliate the skin.
Regardless of the type of device, understanding the equipment is essential for safety. The esthetician must know how to calibrate the machine, how to adjust the settings for different skin types, and how to clean and sterilize the equipment properly between uses to prevent cross-contamination.
Skin Assessment and Client Consultation
Before performing microdermabrasion, a thorough consultation is crucial. Estheticians should assess the client’s skin type, concerns, and medical history. The consultation will help you determine if microdermabrasion is suitable for the client and which type of treatment will be most effective.
Key things to discuss with clients during the consultation:
Skin sensitivity: Some clients may have sensitive or compromised skin, such as those with rosacea, eczema, or active acne, which could be aggravated by microdermabrasion.
Allergies or skin conditions: Check for any allergies or pre-existing conditions that could make microdermabrasion unsuitable.
Sun exposure: Avoid microdermabrasion on clients who have recently been exposed to the sun or have a tan, as their skin may be more sensitive and prone to irritation.
Post-care expectations: Ensure the client understands the importance of post-treatment care, such as avoiding direct sun exposure and using sunscreen.
Sanitation and Hygiene
Proper sanitation and hygiene are critical when performing microdermabrasion to prevent infections or complications. These are the key sanitation rules:
Clean and disinfect equipment: After each treatment, clean the microdermabrasion machine and all attachments, including wands and tips, to prevent contamination.
Sterilize tools: If reusable tools are used, make sure they are sterilized after each client session.
Single-use disposables: For devices that come in contact with the skin, such as the microdermabrasion tips or filters, make sure they are single-use or properly sanitized between each treatment.
Hand hygiene: Always wash your hands thoroughly before and after each treatment. Wearing gloves is also recommended.
Skin Preparation and Post-Treatment Care
Proper pre- and post-treatment care is vital for achieving the best results and minimizing potential side effects.
Pre-treatment care:
Cleanse the client’s skin thoroughly to remove makeup, dirt, and oils, ensuring that the treatment area is completely clean.
Depending on the client’s skin type, you may want to apply a hydrating serum or soothing gel to prepare the skin.
Post-treatment care:
Advise clients to avoid sun exposure immediately following the procedure. They should use sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and reapply as necessary, as their skin will be more sensitive.
Clients should avoid using harsh skincare products (like retinoids or exfoliants) for a few days post-treatment to allow the skin to heal.
If the client experiences any redness, swelling, or irritation, recommend soothing products and follow up to ensure they are healing properly.
Contraindications
There are certain contraindications where microdermabrasion should not be performed. Estheticians should always evaluate the client’s skin before proceeding. Some contraindications include:
Active acne with open lesions: Performing microdermabrasion on active acne may cause irritation or spread bacteria.
Skin conditions like eczema, rosacea, or psoriasis: These conditions can be aggravated by the exfoliation process.
Recent chemical peel or laser treatments: Microdermabrasion should not be performed on skin that has recently undergone aggressive treatments, as the skin may be too sensitive.
Sunburned or irritated skin: Avoid performing the treatment on skin that is already compromised.
treatment Frequency
Microdermabrasion is generally safe and effective, but it’s important to set appropriate expectations for treatment frequency. For most clients, one treatment every 4-6 weeks is recommended. This allows the skin time to recover and regenerate before the next session. Overuse can lead to irritation or sensitivity.
Client Safety and Comfort
Throughout the treatment, ensure that the client is comfortable and the procedure is not causing undue discomfort. Microdermabrasion should feel like a mild scrub, with no significant pain or irritation. Always monitor the pressure of the device and check in with the client to ensure their comfort.
Conclusion
Microdermabrasion is a fantastic way to refresh and rejuvenate the skin, but it requires knowledge, skill, and attention to detail. By adhering to these rules and guidelines, you can provide a safe and effective treatment for your clients, ensuring they leave your spa with glowing, smooth skin.
Whether you're an esthetician just starting to offer microdermabrasion or an experienced professional, keeping up with the latest techniques, certifications, and sanitation practices is crucial to providing the best care for your clients.