Dermabrasion is a skin resurfacing cosmetic procedure that uses a rotating wire brush or diamond fraise to remove the top layer of dead skin cells. This procedure is usually performed on the face to improve the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, scars, and age spots. 

During dermabrasion, the dermatologist will move a rotating wire brush or diamond fraise across your skin. The brush or fraise will abrade or sand down the top layer of your skin, removing dead skin cells. As the top layer of skin is removed, new skin cells will begin to grow in their place. 

Dermabrasion can be performed using a hand-held device that contains a rotating wire brush or diamond fraise. The hand-held device is connected to a vacuum hose. The vacuum removes dead skin cells and other debris as they are abraded from your skin. 

The depth of abrasion can be controlled with the hand-held device. For example, if you have superficial scars or wrinkles, the dermatologist will use a light abrasion. If you have deep scars or wrinkles, the dermatologist will use a deep abrasion. 

After dermabrasion, your skin will be red and swollen. You may also have some bruising. These side effects are temporary and should resolve within a few days to weeks. While your side effects are resolving, you should avoid sun exposure and wear sunscreen with SPF 50 or higher when you do go outside. 

You may also have some temporary changes in your skin color after dermabrasion. For example, your skin may become lighter or darker than it was before the procedure. These changes in skin color are usually temporary and will resolve within a few months. 

The ideal candidate for dermabrasion is someone who is seeking to improve the appearance of their skin. They should be willing to follow the post-treatment instructions, which include avoiding sun exposure. When considering the ideal candidate for dermabrasion, it’s important to consider the patient’s skin type. Dermabrasion is most effective in patients with light skin tones, as darker skin tones can result in post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. It’s also important to consider the patient’s age, as dermabrasion is not recommended for patients younger than 18 years old.