Dear Sun Spots: I was wondering if any of your readers know of any spa, dermatologist, or plastic surgeon in the Lewiston/Auburn area who performs a procedure called microdermabrasion.

If anyone could help me please call me at 207-740-4388. Thank you! – No name, Lewiston.

Answer: In addition to responses from readers, Sun Spots contacted Central Maine Plastic Surgery, a clinical department of Central Maine Medical Center.

They offer micropeel and dermabrasion services. Their offices are at 287 Main St., Suite 302 in Lewiston and you may contact them at 795-6543 for more information.

They are the only medical office we could find in the area that offers these services; may be our readers will know of other places.

You may also consider contacting Cosmetic Enhancement Center of New England at 877-636-1100. It is located at 1375 Congress St. in Portland. It offers microdermabrasion procedures and other types of esthetic skin care.

According to www.immersivemedical.com, microdermabrasion is one of the most popular non-invasive cosmetic procedures performed today. Over time, factors such as aging, genetic factors, sun damage, acne, scarring and enlarged pores can contribute to the formation of facial wrinkles and a rough skin texture on the face. Microdermabrasion can successfully reduce the appearance of superficial wrinkles and scars, restoring a smoother, more youthful appearance.

A microdermabrasion procedure may last approximately 30 to 45 minutes. Unlike certain chemical peels and laser resurfacing, the procedure is relatively painless; therefore anesthesia is not typically required. Prior to your procedure, your physician may recommend that you treat your skin with products containing alphahydroxy acid or retinoic acid, among others, which may increase the effects and longevity of your treatment.

Following your microdermabrasion procedure, you may experience some redness for the first few hours, but you will be able to return to your normal routine immediately after your treatment.

Your skin may appear as if you have a minor sunburn for two to three days and will be more sensitive to sunlight. Therefore, it is important that you use sunscreen with SPF 15 or greater as your skin heals.

As the new skin cells are revealed, your skin will have an improved texture and overall appearance. It is important to realize that in order to maintain the results from a microdermabrasion procedure, you will likely have to undergo approximately five to 10 treatments, depending on the severity of skin damage.

Although multiple treatments are required, microdermabrasion is a simple, fast, effective method of reducing superficial skin damage to restore a refreshed and youthful appearance.

Dear Sun Spots: Attention quilters! Tri-County Mental Health Services is seeking donations of quilts for multiple projects: wall hangings to dampen sounds and brighten our facilities, and to warm and comfort people in our crisis stabilization residential program. Please call Tina at 784-4110, ext. 158 if you can help. – Tina, Lewiston

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