Acne; many teenagers cringe at the word. Doctors and herbalists have been searching for an effective cure for years. Some progress has been made, but still there is no cure. People who suffer from acne have been using creams, medications and lotions to rid themselves of the unsightly problem. Microdermabrasion is another treatment option worth exploring.

Only recently have people been using microdermabrasion for acne and acne scarring. This procedure is usually done in a spa or spa like environment. It removes dead skin cells that clog the pores. Opening up the pores can reduce the formation of blackheads and decrease acne.

Microdermabrasion is an easy and non-invasive procedure. It refreshes and revitalizes the skin, reduces pore size, erases stretch marks, fine lines and wrinkles, and eliminates age spots. The technician uses a small hand held device that blows a crystallized substance onto the skin. This substance gently polishes the skin first. Then, a vacuum tube removes the crystals and the dead skin.

The acne scars and the blackheads are stripped away through the combination of gentle skin abrasion and vacuum suction. A fine layer of skin is removed, pores are unclogged and your face is cleaner and smoother. Since the procedure only removes a thin layer of skin, no skin damage occurs.

If you have sever acne or acne scarring, one treatment will probably not be all you need. Several treatments would be needed to show an improvement in your acne. You should know that microdermabrasion is usually not covered by most health insurance. The cost of several treatments can add up quickly. One treatment can cost between $50 and $300.

In the literature you will find a few studies done on the effectiveness of microdermabrasion for acne. One small study showed good results when treating acne with microdermabrasion. The small study had 25 subjects; 72 % had excellent or good results, 17 % had fair results, and only 12% had poor results. Larger studies would need to be done to prove its effectiveness.

Microdermabrasion is most likely best for mild to moderate forms of acne. If you have moderate to severe acne, or excessive acne scarring, some experts say that it may not be effective, and may possibly worsen the condition.

There are a few side effects to consider when undergoing microdermabrasion. It may cause a temporary redness on your skin. Blotchiness and peeling may also occur. Rarely, the skin color may change and you may have some areas of lighter skin color.

Microdermabrasion is not a cure for everyone's acne. Cost, mild side effects and effectiveness vary amongst patients. It has helped some acne sufferers, and shows promise as one of several treatments to control acne, but it is not universally accepted as a cure. If you have acne or acne scarring, consult your physician to see if this treatment may be right for you.