The Prevention and Management of Postdermabrasion Complications

Abstract

The complications of keloids, pigment changes, loss of skin texture, and enlarged facial pores remain a problem with dermabrasion patients. Their occurrence can be reduced by proper patient selection, proper dermabrasion technique, proper wound management, and prompt treatment. Keloids are rapidly resolved with the use of flurandrenolide tape covered with positive-pressure chin-strap dressings. Streaks of hyperpigmentation are lightened with a combination of sunscreen, opaque makeup, tretinoin, and hydroquinone lotions. The loss of skin texture can be prevented by not abrading too deeply and avoiding subsequent bacterial contamination during wound healing. However, enlarged skin pores in the central portion of the face and hypopigmentation can be permanent complications.

Further Enhancement of Facial Appearance With a Hydroquinone Skin Care System Plus Tretinoin in Patients Previously Treated With Botulinum Toxin Type A

“…12 Other treatments reported to have been used in combination with both hydroquinone and tretinoin include Q-switched ruby laser therapy 13,14 and dermabrasion. 15 Similarly, the adjunctive use of BoNT-A has been reported to enhance the clinical improvement attained with intense pulsed light, 16,17 collagen and hyaluronic acid fillers, 11,18 and chemabrasion (trichloroacetic acid followed by dermasanding). 19 Other treatments reported to have been used in combination with BoNT-A include chemical peels 20 and fractional resurfacing.…”

Dermabrasion Using Tumescent Anesthesia

“…Advances have been made in the better understanding of the wound healing process postdermabrasion with the concept of moist dressings now holding sway. The avoidance of heavy scabbing appears to be associated with a decrease in scarring and leucoderma post‐abrasion 4 . The advent of the full‐face and regional dermabrasion limits the demarcation lines associated with this technique.…”

Current Concepts in Dermabrasion Therapy

“…Some of the most common complications postdermabrasion are keloids, blotchy skin, pigment changes, loss of skin texture, and enlarged facial pores. 18 Studies have shown that patients who were taking isotretinoin and received dermabrasion can grow keloids, some in atypical locations. 19,20 In these patients, dermabrasion should be postponed until the patient is no longer taking the medication, preferably 6 months to 1 year after.…”