If you’re looking for brighter skin without a long recovery process, microdermabrasion might be the right treatment for you. Microdermabrasion is an exfoliation treatment that can reveal a fresher complexion after the first treatment, with no downtime.
What Is Microdermabrasion?
Microdermabrasion is a minimally invasive skin treatment that exfoliates the uppermost layer of skin. The process clears away dull, dead skin cells to reveal fresher skin underneath. It can also trigger quicker cell renewal to offer long-lasting skin brightening effects. You can get microdermabrasion on your face, neck, chest, or hands.
Microdermabrasion can be performed in a spa, salon, or dermatologist’s office by a trained provider. There is no need for injections or numbing before the treatment. Most people do not find it painful, though you may experience a scratching or stinging sensation. It usually takes about 30 minutes.
How Does Microdermabrasion Work?
There are two types of microdermabrasion machines in use at spas and dermatology offices:1
Crystal microdermabrasion: This method involves using a machine that shoots tiny crystals through a wand. The provider moves the wand across your face, and the crystals loosen and detach dead skin cells, dirt, and oil. There is an attached suction tool that vacuums up the debris from your skin.
Diamond microdermabrasion: With diamond microdermabrasion, your provider uses a diamond-tipped wand that operates like a very gentle sander. They pass the tip along the skin to scrub away the top layer of your skin, along with any dirt and oil. A suction tube clears away the debris at the same time.
Microdermabrasion Results
There is no downtime after treatment. You may feel a little sore, and your skin may look flushed. But those symptoms typically go away within a few hours. You can use a cool cloth on your skin to ease any discomfort.
Your skin may be more sensitive to sun exposure after treatment, so be sure to use sunscreen when you go outside.
You can get a single microdermabrasion treatment, or you can do a series of several treatments over the course of several weeks. After that, you may want to have a monthly microdermabrasion appointment to maintaining your results.
Microdermabrasion Uses and Benefits
Microdermabrasion has the instant effect of making skin look fresh and bright. With repeated treatment, it can also increase collagen production. Collagen is a protein that diminishes with age. Less collagen results in skin that looks thinner and less taut. Boosting collagen production can make skin look firmer and fuller. 2
Microdermabrasion benefits can also increase cell turnover, which can reduce some of the visible signs of aging, including:3
- Discoloration
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Enlarged pores
- Acne scars
- Stretch marks
You can try microdermabrasion at home using kits available online. Talk to your dermatologist before trying microdermabrasion at home. Make sure the kit you use is safe, and follow the package directions to avoid injury to your skin.
To learn more about treatments like microdermabrasion vs microneedling, check out more posts at MySkinTreatment.
Physician Questions:
Can I get microdermabrasion if I have eczema?
Will microdermabrasion help with acne?
Can people with all skin tones get microdermabrasion?
Is microdermabrasion more effective than chemical peels?
Is microdermabrasion more effective than laser skin resurfacing?
Can men get microdermabrasion?
Sources:
- Cleveland Clinic: “Microdermabrasion.”
- American Society of Plastic Surgeons: “What is microdermabrasion?“
- American Society of Plastic Surgeons: “What is microdermabrasion?“