Cosmetic Dermatology
Prevention of Cross-Contamination When Using Microdermabrasion Equipment
Cutis. 2003 October;72(4):266-268
By
Shelton RM
Author and Disclosure Information
Ron M. Shelton, MD
Accepted for publication June 17, 2003. From Mount Sinai Medical Center, New York, New York, and The New York Aesthetic Center, LLP.
The author reports no conflict of interest.

This article addresses the concern of cross-contamination with the use of microdermabrasion equipment. After performing microdermabrasion on a patient with acne scarring, the instrument was examined for debris on the plateau of the hand piece. Bloody material was noted, indicating that it is not sufficient to only sterilize the distal cap of the hand piece or to use disposable caps. The hand piece itself must be sterilized to prevent the transmission of infectious particles to the next patient receiving treatment with this equipment.