Stages of Dermabrasion Healing: What to Expect During Recovery

Understanding the Dermabrasion Healing Process

Dermabrasion is a skin resurfacing procedure that uses a rapidly rotating device to sand the outer layers of skin off. It is commonly used to treat acne scars, fine lines, sun damage, uneven pigmentation and other skin concerns. The procedure causes controlled injury to the skin, which prompts new collagen production during the healing process. This results in smoother, tighter and more youthful looking skin.

Dermabrasion does not happen instantly. It takes time for the skin to regenerate and heal. Most patients require at least 10 to 21 days for the complete dermabrasion healing process. It is normal for the skin to look worse before it looks better. Being prepared for what to expect during recovery helps patients feel more comfortable with the visual stages of healing.

What to Expect During Dermabrasion Healing

Here is an overview of the dermabrasion healing timeline and what to expect as the skin progresses through the stages of recovery:

Days 1-5

During the first 5 days after the procedure, the treated area will be extremely red and swollen. The skin may weep clear fluid and feel tight. Gentle cold compresses can provide relief. Pain medication is recommended for discomfort.

The top layers of damaged skin have been removed. What remains is the dermis, which contains nerve endings, blood vessels and collagen. A scab has not yet formed at this point. The treated area must be kept lubricated with ointment to prevent scabbing and promote healing.

Days 5-10

Around days 5 to 10, a thicker scab will begin to form over the treated area. The skin remains extremely red and swollen underneath the scab tissue. Scabs act like a protective barrier while new skin regenerates underneath.

It is important not to pick or scrub the scabs, as this can lead to scarring and infection. Continue using ointment and gentle compresses. Swelling and discomfort peaks during this time as the skin works to repair itself.

Days 10-14

During this time period, scabs will darken and begin flaking off naturally. Do not pick them. The skin is still healing and will be pink or red, but swelling goes down. Some lingering scabs may remain.

Moisturize frequently to hydrate the skin. Avoid direct sun exposure. The skin will be highly vulnerable to sunburn. Continue taking care not to traumatize the skin while scabs are present.

Days 14-21

Most scabs will have fallen off by this point. The skin improves dramatically during days 14 to 21. Redness fades, discomfort subsides and swelling resolves. The skin will be lighter pink and look smoother.

Collagen regeneration in the dermis tightens the skin. Regular moisturizer use will help strengthen the skin barrier. Use sun protection diligently as the skin remains vulnerable to UV damage.

What Does Healed Skin Look Like?

It takes a full 3 to 6 weeks for the skin to complete the remodeling process after dermabrasion. At around 1 month after the procedure, the skin will:

• Have little to no redness left
• Feel smooth, supple and strong
• Have normal sensitivity and sensation
• Be able to tolerate sun exposure and products
• Show significant improvement of treated skin concerns

Some examples of healed dermabrasion results at 1 month include:

• Acne scars are less visible and indented
• Fine lines and wrinkles are reduced
• Sun spots and discoloration are lightened
• Skin texture and tone looks more uniform

The full effects of dermabrasion continue to improve over 3 to 6 months. With proper aftercare, patients can enjoy smooth, glowing skin that looks healthy and youthful.

Dermabrasion Aftercare Tips

Proper aftercare is crucial for optimal dermabrasion results and to prevent complications. Follow these tips during the healing process:

Keep the Area Moist

It is vital to keep the treated area moisturized while skin is regenerating. Use a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer or ointment. This prevents scabs from forming and minimizes the risk of scarring.

Avoid Irritation

Do not scrub, pick at scabs or wear makeup until healing is complete. This can disturb the new skin and cause scarring. Avoid direct sun exposure and swimming pools during recovery.

Use Cold Compresses

Cold compresses provide relief from swelling, discomfort and itching as the skin heals. Gently apply for 10 minutes a few times per day.

Take Oral Pain Medication

Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen can alleviate pain as the skin regenerates. Use as directed by your doctor.

Keep Treated Area Elevated

Keep your head elevated on pillows after facial dermabrasion to reduce swelling. Prop up treated limbs on cushions to improve drainage.

Avoid Infections

Practice good hygiene and hand washing when caring for treated areas to prevent infection. Avoid picking scabs or disturbing healing skin.

Protect from Sun

UV exposure can severely damage healing skin. Wear protective clothing, hats and zinc oxide sunscreen daily.

Call Your Doctor if Issues Arise

Contact your dermatologist right away if you notice signs of infection like pus, fever or increased pain. Some redness, swelling and discomfort is normal during recovery.

What Factors Influence Healing?

Several factors affect the dermabrasion healing timeline and how the skin progresses through the stages. These include:

Depth of Procedure

More superficial dermabrasion over smaller areas heals faster than deep resurfacing over larger zones. Light procedures may heal in 5 to 7 days while more aggressive treatment requires 14 to 21 days.

Location on Body

The face heals the fastest since it has the best blood supply. Healing takes longer on the hands, neck and other areas.

Skin Type

Those with oilier skin types tend to heal quicker than dry or normal skin. However, oily skin also has a higher risk of scarring.

Sun Exposure

Daily UV exposure slows healing and increases scarring risk. Strict sun protection is vital after dermabrasion.

Age

Youthful skin in the teens to thirties heal fastest. Dermabrasion recovery takes longer with advanced age as cell turnover decelerates.

Aftercare Diligence

Following your dermatologists aftercare instructions speeds healing. Proper wound care makes a big difference.

Individual Variation

Genetics and other factors cause some variability in wound healing between different people. Your body may simply heal faster or slower.

What About Scarring?

Some degree of scarring is expected with dermabrasion since it intentionally injures the skin to resurface it. However, proper aftercare can help minimize scars. Here are some tips:

• Follow all wound care instructions from your dermatologist.
• Keep the skin moisturized and hydrated as it heals.
• Avoid sun exposure until healing is complete.
• Do not pick scabs or disturb the skin.
• Use sunscreen diligently to protect new skin.
• Keep the area elevated to prevent fluid buildup.
• Massage the skin with vitamin E oil to boost circulation.
• Consider silicone sheeting to reduce raised or discolored scars.

With proper care, scarring should continue to fade over several months. Most patients experience only mild scarring that is easily covered by makeup.

The Bottom Line

Dermabrasion causes planned injury to the skin in order to improve its appearance. Managing expectations about the stages of healing and recovery process allows for the best results. While the skin goes through redness, swelling, scabbing and peeling, proper aftercare helps speed healing and reduce scarring.

Following your dermatologists wound care and sun protection instructions makes a major difference. With realistic expectations about healing, most patients are very pleased with refreshed, glowing skin that has improved texture, tone and appearance of skin concerns like scarring, wrinkles and sun damage.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.