"Is It Safe to Use Salicylic Acid After Microdermabrasion?"

Can You Use Salicylic Acid After Microdermabrasion?

If you have had microdermabrasion before, you will know the full benefits for the skin and the overall improved look and feel. With such a highly effective treatment, the question we are left with is, can we use our normal skincare routine after microdermabrasion? Will salicylic acid help or hinder the results for the complexion? Are there huge no-no’s to using these potent powerhouses together? This is exactly what we plan to explore in today’s blog post, so stick around if you wanted to get to the bottom of things.

Before we start our investigation, let me explain what microdermabrasion is and how it works on the skin. If you are already familiar with how this treatment benefits the skin, you can skip to the next part.

What is microdermabrasion?

Microdermabrasion is a cosmetic treatment that involves fine crystals providing deep exfoliation

The vacuum device of the machine can remove dead skin cells from the top layers of the skin

Visibly improved complexion with fine lines and wrinkles significantly reduced

Signs of dark spots and hyperpigmentation improved with pigmentation appearing brighter with an even finish to the skin

Microdermabrasion can be used on the face, neck, hands, chest and back.

Skin texture is improved with an all-over smoother, younger, even looking complexion

There you have a few examples of what microdermabrasion does for the skin and the benefits you can expect to see. Finding a salon or spa that performs this treatment is an easy task as it is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures available.

How long after microdermabrasion can I use salicylic acid?

Do not use any form of exfoliation on the skin after for microdermabrasion for at least three days after your treatment. This could be in the form of physical scrubs containing pieces of nut shells, as well as chemical exfoliation, such as salicylic acid and other acids.

Due to the deep exfoliation revealing brand new skin, increased sensitivity exposes the skin to become easily irritated. Therefore, it’s thought best to avoid any further exfoliation whilst your skin heals.

Other skin ingredients to avoid using during your healing stage are,

Glycolic Acid

Retinol

Benzoyl Peroxide

Topical Acne Treatments

After waiting for 72 hours, you can reintroduce your skincare products containing these ingredients back into your routine. Ideally, this should be performed as a staggered routine starting by only using one product enriched with a potent ingredient. By doing this you are keeping your skin healthy without causing it to become overly dry and irritated. Follow any skincare products containing the mentioned ingredients with a formula that is hydrating and packed with actives, such as hyaluronic acid and niacinamide. Each of these ingredients act as humectants meaning they can lock moisturise into the skin and keep it hydrated with the skin barrier strengthened.

What should you not do after microdermabrasion?

There are a few does and don’ts when it comes to the aftercare of microdermabrasion. Here are the main factors that should be avoided.

Don’t forget to moisturise more

Microdermabrasion is one of the most effective treatments with the quickest results. After your treatment you will instantly see an improvement of your skin. Many users exclaim how they can’t believe the softness of their skin after just one treatment, this is something that can easily be maintained by applying liberal layers of moisturiser. Be sure that you opt for a water-based formula packed with hyaluronic acid to keep the skin plumped, glowing, and healthy. You will also find that any signs of flaky, dry areas of skin are reduced, and the skin is left comfortable and the skin barrier at its healthiest, strongest state.

Don’t forget your SPF

For the first 3 days after your appointment, it is advisable to avoid touching and cleansing the skin and ideally, you should avoid any exposure to direct sunlight. Once these days have passed, it is of the highest importance you apply a daily SPF of 30 and above. This will ensure all the hard work of the microdermabrasion is not altered and you have full protection from free radicals, such as UV light, pollution, central heating, and other environmental aggressors.

Do not work out

If you were after a good excuse to skip the gym for a few days, then microdermabrasion is the answer. As I have mentioned, your skin’s sensitivity is increased so avoid heavy workouts that will result in you sweating profusely. This will prevent any sweat from reacting to the skin and causing irritation.

Avoid caffeine

I understand how the thought of not having your morning tea or coffee sounds like an absolute nightmare. The trouble is caffeine is very dehydrating for the skin, especially after a treatment that performs such as deep exfoliation. The easiest way to counteract this is to remember to consume the same amount of water as you do caffeine.

There you have some examples of the main factors you need to avoid, including the exfoliation I mentioned in the previous section. If you have any concerns with your aftercare post microdermabrasion, consult with your doctor or the trained professional who performed the procedure for more advice.

Can I use BHA after microdermabrasion?

No, it is best to avoid any form of BHA after microdermabrasion. The new skin layer on the surface of the face is highly sensitive and suspectable to long term damage if exposed to any form of exfoliation, this will cause the skin to become red, irritated, and uncomfortable. You will also find your natural protective barrier will become weakened and lacking in the vital oil and water needed to function correctly. This will result in all manner of skin concerns and problems, from redness, signs of premature ageing, and hyperpigmentation.

How do you treat acne after microdermabrasion?

If you are starting a course of microdermabrasion to treat your acne, you may need to prepare yourself from more breakouts before you reach your skin goals. Many find that their acne can worsen after the first treatment, but don’t panic, as this is all part of the process.

The way microdermabrasion exfoliates the skin is by stimulating the skin cycle, sloughing away the build-up of dead skin cells and unclogging the pores of deep-rooted impurities, such as bacteria, debris, excess sebum, and dirt. All of this can lead to something known as purging when all the “gunk” in the skin is drawn to the surface of the skin. As disheartening as it may feel, this won’t last forever and after a couple more sessions of microdermabrasion, you will be left with the best skin you’ve ever had!

How long after microdermabrasion can I use retinol?

You need to avoid using retinol for at least three days after microdermabrasion. With retinol performing on the face in a similar way to the treatment, you’ll find this will be too much for the skin and you will be left with a flare up of acne, redness, breakouts, and other skin concerns. Once the skin has healed and settled, you can then reintroduce retinol into your routine with the peace of mind you won’t damage the skin.

I hope that this has answered some of your questions you had about using salicylic acid after microdermabrasion. Don’t forget, if you have any further questions, you can come and follow us on Instagram.

DQH Knowledge drop: In your 20s, your skin cell turnover decreases. (Cell turnover is a key component in keeping your skin youthful.) You know what else slows down? Your collagen production. Starting in your 20s, collagen decreases by about 1 percent per year. Should you want to prevent fine lines and wrinkles, start by eliminating behaviors that contribute to premature aging. “If it’s bad for you, it’s bad for your skin,” says dermatologist Michel Somenek. “Cigarette smoking reduces blood flow to the skin and causes premature wrinkling and a dull skin texture. Making the repeated pursed motion to inhale can also cause smoker’s lines. Alcohol and recreational drugs are toxins for the skin that damage its cellular structure and DNA,” Somenek tells us. “The faster you eliminate vices while you are young, the better chance your skin and body have to recuperate.” Also, adopting an anti-aging routine in your 20s is key. After all, the best offense is a good defense. We spoke to Somenek and experts Joshua Ross and Audrey Kunin to find out more. Keep reading for the best anti-aging products for your 20s, according to skincare professionals. Sunscreen “We all know that the sun is the number one cause of skin aging and starting the prevention in your 20s is very important,” Ross says. “The majority of your sun damage won’t start to appear until you’re in your 30s, so don’t wait until you see it surface or you’ll be behind the curve. Stay ahead of it with a good-quality zinc-based sunscreen worn daily.” Farmacy Green Defense Daily Mineral Sunscreen An invisible sunscreen with SPF 30, plus botanical extracts meant to protect skin with tons of antioxidants. Bonus: It’s clean and fine to use under makeup. Bareminerals Complexion Rescue™ Tinted Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Although we recommend you use your SPF and moisturizer separately, we also understand moments when you don’t have time or energy for that extra step. For those times, this bareMinerals moisturizer is a great thing to have on hand. Vitamin C Serum “A great introduction to anti-aging is to start with a vitamin C serum in your morning skincare routine,” Ross says. “It’s a powerful antioxidant that will neutralize free radicals and brighten the skin.” He adds that it’s a great way to counteract the effects of the sun’s harmful rays, which, as previously mentioned, are among the biggest causes of premature aging. Drunk Elephant C-Firma™ Vitamin C Day Serum The Drunk Elephant C-Firma is a lightweight serum that promises to give skin a glow by combining the brightening powers of vitamin C with ferulic acid, l-ascorbic acid, and vitamin E. The included sodium hyaluronate is meant to replace hydration loss, so you shouldn’t have to deal with any irritation. Sunday Riley C.E.O. Rapid Flash Brightening Serum This potent serum is jam-packed with vitamin C (15 percent, to be exact), which means it’s a potential superstar at both brightening skin and dousing it in antioxidants. Peptides Using peptides on your skin has many benefits, says Somenek. “The skin barrier is what defends the body against pollution, UV rays, bacteria, and toxins. It can be damaged by several everyday factors. Using topical peptides aids in building a stronger barrier,” he says. “Peptides comprise elastic fibers, which are a type of protein. These fibers help to make skin appear taut and firm. Peptides can also help repair damaged skin, relieve inflammation, and even out skin tone. Some peptides can kill acne-causing bacteria that is common in 20-somethings.” Kunin agrees, saying, “Peptides are an excellent entry point for supporting collagen.” She recommends looking for face and eye treatments that contain these collagen-boosting powerhouses. Charlotte Tilbury Magic Eye Rescue Cream This Charlotte Tilbury super-emollient eye cream has a base of coconut oil and shea butter (read: it’s incredibly hydrating). Botanicals plus peptides are meant to help reduce dark circles and boost collagen, respectively. This creamy moisturizer serves up potent collagen-boosting peptides and pycnogenol, and antioxidant-rich vitamin C. “Instead of sitting on top of the skin, peptides penetrate the outer layer so they go deep. The ‘signals’ they send tell the cells to produce elastin and collagen, which are needed for youthful-looking skin,” explains Somenek. At-Home Peel Pads Remember that skin cell turnover fiasco we talked about earlier? One way to help support it is by exfoliating. “Exfoliation is important to help keep skin fresh and luminous,” Kunin says. She recommends using at-home peel pads as an easy and effective way to exfoliate. “The goal in your 20s is to fight the slowing pace of cell turnover. It is wise to use products that gently exfoliate, yet still remove oil and other impurities. Products that have Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA) or Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHA) are a good choice.” According to Somenek, you should only exfoliate two to three times a week. “People of all ages are guilty of over-exfoliating and that can be too much of a good thing,” he says. Dermadoctor Kakadu C Intensive Vitamin C Peel Pad A few swipes of this Derma Doctor powerful peel pad promise to leave your skin glowing and smooth, thanks to the seven (yes, seven) types of chemical exfoliants, including AHA and BHA. It also contains vitamin C via Kakadu plum extract for added brightening and antioxidant protection. KEY INGREDIENTS Kakadu plum extract is sourced from the Kakadu plum, a fruit grown in northern Australia. It contains vitamin C, which restores the skin’s natural barrier, increases collagen production, and soothes irritation. Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta® Universal Daily Peel Pads These are the gold standard of peel pads, with a cult following and over 900 five-star reviews on Sephora. They’re easy to use and contain a blend of anti-aging exfoliating acids. Emollient Night Cream “In your 20s, you need to start upping the hydration in your skincare routine. You may have been cautious of over-moisturizing because of acne in your teens, but as you enter your 20s, your skin transitions and becomes drier,” Ross says. “I recommend an emollient night cream added into your evening skincare regimen.” “Twenty-somethings need to make sure that they are not using creams that will clog their pores and cause excess oil production,” says Somenek. Opt for non-comedogenic products. Cerave Skin Renewing Night Cream One great choice is the CeraVe Skin Renewing Night Cream, which is a non-comedogenic night cream that leaves skin soft and glowy. It combines the moisturizing powers of ceramides and hyaluronic acid. RoC Retinol Correxion Max Hydration Creme “The best night cream ingredients contain retinol, benzoyl peroxide, and/or salicylic acid or hyaluronic acid. The goal is to moisturize, yet remove excess oil,” says Somenek. This Roc Retinol Correxion cream fits the bill as it contains both hyaluronic acid and retinol so it promises to moisturize while also being non-comedogenic.

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