You must have seen that when they are photographed nude or when celebrities are photographed with baby bombs, their bodies are extra shiny. This is actually caused by body polishing. Now, not only celebrities, but also other women get body polishes on special occasions to add shine to their skin. How does body polishing work and is it safe for everyone? Health Shots is here for you to find the answers to all these questions.

Can new mothers and pregnant women also try it? We spoke with Dr. Aruna Kumari, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynecologist at Cloudnine Group of Hospitals, Bangalore, Bellandur to know more about it.

What is leather polishing?

Skin polishing is a professional treatment that deeply exfoliates your skin. It removes accumulated dead skin cells and exfoliates the smooth skin underneath. In this treatment, your skin is polished with chemicals. This procedure is effective in treating hyperpigmentation, age spots, signs of photoaging and crow’s feet around the eyes. It is suitable for all skin types. Skin polishing helps improve dull skin from within.

It is also called microdermabrasion, explains Dr. Aruna Kumari, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, Cloudnine Group of Hospitals, Bangalore, Bellandur. Helps remove fine lines, age spots, acne scars or sun damage, hyperpigmentation and blackheads.

How long does skin polishing take?

One skin polishing takes about 45 minutes to an hour, depending on the area being treated. These last between four and twelve sessions. There is an interval of two to three weeks between individual sessions.

Can polishing be done on all skin types?

Yes, skin polishing is suitable for all skin types. For sensitive skin, make sure to follow the post-treatment instructions to avoid irritation. Only entrust these operations to an experienced person.

Are there any side effects of skin polishing?

When performed under the supervision of a licensed dermatologist or esthetician, skin polishing has no side effects. You may feel a slight redness on your skin. This is normal for any skin treatment. Skin polishing can have some effects on women with sensitive skin, so consult a dermatologist before doing it.

How safe is skin polishing during pregnancy?

Dr Aruna says that “microdermabrasion is safe during pregnancy. But certain precautions should be taken because during pregnancy the blood flow to the skin increases due to dilation of blood vessels. So increased blood flow can make the skin look flushed, especially in areas where there are more blood vessels, such as the face. It’s called the pregnancy glow.”

This is why the skin is very sensitive, so chemical peeling should be avoided at the end of microdermabrasion, as it is not safe during pregnancy. Before performing this procedure, it is best to consult with the attending obstetrician.

Dr Aruna explains, “If good tools are not used, it can have an adverse effect. After that, there may be a problem with scarring, itching, burning, dryness or cracking.

Also read: Even in the middle of the festival bustle, bring a glow to your face in just 10 minutes, here are 4 quick tips