Chapter 10 Micro-dermabrasion Diamond micro-dermabrasion

Diamond micro-dermabrasion 1 Uses rotating steel heads encrusted with fragments of real or manmade diamonds. Treatment is gentle; you have control over the amount of pressure used on the skin so you can reduce pressure on sensitive areas such as the neck and eye area. The slower the speed of rotation, the more abrasive the treatment; the faster the speed, the more superficial the treatment. In some machines dead cells are sucked away by a vacuum; in others the cells have to be wiped away.

Diamond micro-dermabrasion 2

Benefits Suitable for most skin types. Reduces the appearance of fine lines and skin ageing. Improves elasticity of ageing skin. Minimises appearance of pigmentation. Reduces appearance of scarring and stretch marks. Brightens the complexion. Refines skin and reduces appearance of enlarged pores. Reduces puffiness. Removes hard skin from feet. Smooths elbows and knees.

Physiological effects Increased blood supply to the skin, improving skin condition. Aids lymphatic drainage, removing waste products and reducing oedema. Vasodilation, causing erythema. Irritates sensory nerve endings, stimulating cell regeneration. Aids desquamation. Allows beneficial products to penetrate more deeply. Increase in new cells will restore lost elasticity to the skin.

Contraindications Botox injections Cuts and abrasions Dermal fillers Diabetes Eczema Glycolic peels Hypersensitive and highly vascular skin Loose skin Medication causing thinning or inflammation of the skin Moles – raised and skin tags Neuro-dermatitis Pregnancy Psoriasis Skin diseases Tattoos on area being treated

Precautions 1 Examine and test the machine. Carry out a tactile sensitivity test. Ensure crystal flow is functioning. Ensure skin is completely dry. Adjust pressure for sensitive areas. Do not work backward and forward over the area but work in lines in the same direction from one starting point. Treat both sides of the face equally. Do not over treat. Be alert to contra-actions.

Precautions 2 Adjust use of pressure for sensitive areas. Move the rotating head in a circular motion, following the direction of rotation of the head. Do not work back and forward over the same area; keep the head moving.

Preparation of the working area Place the machine on a stable base on the correct side of the couch. Check plugs, leads and connection of the nozzle. Select the appropriate diamond head for the area you are treating. Test the machine. Set controls to zero. Prepare the couch with clean linen and towels. Prepare the trolley with pre-treatment products, post- treatment products, soft brush and gauze to remove dead skin cells and the consultation record.

Preparation of the client Carry out a consultation – discuss effects and outcomes. Check for contraindications. Remove contact lenses and jewellery. Position the client comfortably. Protect hair and clothing. Explain to the client that they may feel a slight prickling sensation. Carry out a tactile sensitivity test. Cleanse and tone the skin. Carry out a skin analysis.

Treatment technique 1 Ensure speed control is at minimum and select the direction of rotation; place the head onto the neck and gently increase the speed. Place a finger to the side of the area to be treated; work in small circular movements away from the finger so the skin is lifted upwards and outwards. Be alert to contra-actions. Continue working upwards and outwards; change the direction to work up the other side of the face; cover the whole face and neck once or twice. Reduce the speed to zero and switch off the machine.

Treatment technique 2 Brush away remaining dead skin cells. Apply appropriate products. Update the consultation record.

Treatment technique 3: Direction of strokes

Contra-actions Excessive erythema. Skin prone to flushing in the day following treatment.

Homecare advice Avoid exfoliation for seven days. Apply SPF 15–30 moisturising product. Avoid products containing retinol. Avoid sunbathing, sunbed or heat treatments 24–48 hours prior to next treatment.