| Category Name | Content |
| Name | Microdermabrasion |
| Uses | Non-invasive exfoliation treatment designed to improve skin texture, reduce fine lines, minimize pores, treat mild hyperpigmentation, and enhance overall skin radiance. |
| Route Of Administration | External mechanical exfoliation using a handheld device with a diamond tip or crystal-based system. |
| Frequency Of Use | Typically performed every 2-4 weeks for an initial series of 4-6 treatments; maintenance every 1-2 months as needed. |
| Concentration(s) | Depends on treatment modality: - **Diamond Tip Microdermabrasion**: Customizable levels of exfoliation based on skin tolerance - **Crystal Microdermabrasion**: Uses aluminum oxide or sodium bicarbonate crystals to remove dead skin cells |
| Maximum Dosage (Day, Wk) | One treatment per session. Excessive exfoliation should be avoided to prevent irritation or damage to the skin barrier. |
| Contraindications | Active acne lesions, open wounds, rosacea, eczema, psoriasis, recent use of isotretinoin (within 6 months), history of keloid scarring, active infections (herpes simplex, bacterial, fungal), recent deep chemical peels, or recent laser treatments. |
| Possible Side Effects | Mild redness, transient sensitivity, dryness, temporary flaking, rare bruising (especially on thin or delicate skin). |
| Compatibility With Other Treatments/Drugs | Safe to combine with hydrating facials, LED therapy, and superficial peels. Avoid use with deep chemical peels, ablative lasers, or microneedling within 2 weeks. |
| Allergies | Assess for sensitivity to aluminum oxide crystals (if using crystal microdermabrasion) or post-procedure skincare products. |
| Administration Time | 30-45 minutes per session, depending on treatment area and intensity level. |
| Dosing/Settings | Settings should be customized based on patient skin type and sensitivity: - **Suction Strength**: Low for sensitive skin, medium to high for thicker, resilient skin - **Number of Passes**: 1-3 passes per area, depending on skin tolerance - **Crystal Flow Rate (if applicable)**: Adjusted based on patient comfort and skin needs |
| Test Spot Requirement | Not required for most patients; however, those with sensitive or reactive skin should start with a lower-intensity test patch before full treatment. |
| Pre-Treatment Guidelines | - Discontinue retinoids, AHAs, BHAs, and exfoliating agents 5-7 days before treatment. - Avoid sun exposure, tanning beds, and self-tanners for 1 week before treatment. - Ensure skin is clean and free of makeup, lotions, and sunscreen before treatment. - Hydrate well in the days leading up to treatment. |
| Provider Clearance Guidelines | - Ensure the patient meets all clearance criteria before treatment. - If the patient has rosacea, eczema, or a history of sensitivity, adjust settings accordingly. - Document all clearance decisions in the patient’s medical record. |
| Pre-Treatment Screening Workflow | - Is the patient currently using isotretinoin? (If YES, contraindicated for 6 months post-use) - Does the patient have active skin infections or open wounds? (If YES, delay treatment until resolved) - Has the patient had recent aggressive laser treatments or deep chemical peels? (If YES, delay treatment for 2-4 weeks) - Is the patient pregnant or breastfeeding? (If YES, proceed with caution, avoiding aggressive settings) |
| What To Do If Adverse Reaction Occurs | - **Excessive redness or irritation**: Apply a cooling gel or aloe vera and reduce exfoliation strength for future treatments. - **Persistent dryness or flaking**: Recommend increased hydration and barrier-repairing skincare. - **Increased sensitivity to skincare products**: Advise patient to use gentle, fragrance-free formulations. - **Rare bruising (due to suction pressure)**: Reduce suction strength in future treatments and avoid aggressive passes. |
| Clinic Implementation Guidelines | - Confirm all consents and pre-treatment screening are completed. - Ensure proper sanitation of device tips and disposable parts. - Adjust suction and exfoliation settings based on patient comfort and treatment goals. - Provide post-treatment care instructions and schedule follow-up treatments as needed. |
| Photographic Documentation Protocol | - Take pre-treatment photos from standardized angles (front, side, and close-up views). - Take post-treatment photos immediately after the procedure and at the 2-week follow-up. - Store images securely in the patient’s medical record. |
| Post-Treatment Care | - Avoid makeup for at least 24 hours post-treatment. - Use a gentle cleanser and hydrating serums for the first 3-5 days. - Avoid direct sun exposure for at least 1 week post-treatment; apply SPF 50+ daily. - Avoid retinoids and exfoliating products for at least 5-7 days post-treatment. - Mild redness and sensitivity may persist for up to 48 hours. - Follow-up treatments should be scheduled based on provider recommendations. |
| Additional Documentation Requirements | - Signed informed consent detailing treatment risks, benefits, and post-care instructions. - Fitzpatrick skin type assessment. - Treatment session log including suction strength, number of passes, and patient response. - Post-treatment care instructions provided and documented. |