What Are the Different Types of Dermabrasion Kits?

Dermabrasion kits are used to reduce the signs of aging and to improve skin tone. They are available to reduce wrinkles and acne, as well as to decrease the appearance of scars and tattoos. These solutions can be purchased in stores for home use, as opposed to going to a dermatologist for a procedure. The type of kit chosen depends on the users's needs and price range.

The most common reason why people purchase dermabrasion kits is for anti-aging purposes without the expensive cost of a dermatological procedure. Dermabrasion is a process in which the dead skin cells residing on the epidermis, or upper skin, are removed. It is thought by some cosmologists and dermatologists that dermabrasion can help to decrease the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, as well as reducing the occurrence of acne.

Dermabrasion solutions for anti-aging have several benefits and often come with more than one product. The first product is an exfoliating solution designed to remove dead skin. A moisturizing product is then used to prevent the skin from drying out, which could increase the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Other products may be included for different areas of the body, depending on the type of dermabrasion kit. Another benefit of anti-aging and dermabrasion solutions is that the skin can be prepped so that other skin care products can work more effectively. When dead skin cells are removed, wrinkle creams as well as acne creams can better penetrate the pores.

Other kits are used to decrease the appearance of scars. A scar from an accident, injury, or even a tattoo can take several months to heal. Dermabrasion kits are used to speed up skin cell turnover thereby reducing the appearance of the scar. These same kits can be used to resurface the skin to reduce the appearance of sun damage, uneven skin texture, and pigmentation.

Prices range greatly for dermabrasion kits. Typically, the least expensive versions offer only the solution, while pricier kits contain battery-powered tools that exfoliate the skin. Exfoliating tools may not be necessary, depending on the type of product applied to the skin. Generally, dermabrasion solutions contain rough beads that exfoliate the skin when a person massages in the product.

There are certain risks and side effects associated with at-home dermabrasion solutions. Using a product too often can irritate the skin and slough off too much of the epidermis, causing redness and dryness. At the same time, misuse of dermabrasion kits can actually have the opposite desired outcome. Using dermabrasion solutions too frequently can cause more acne or make scars look worse. Persistent side effects should be addressed with a dermatologist.