Medically Reviewed By Reema Patel, MPA, PA-C
— Written By Sarah Lewis, PharmD
Updated on July 28, 2022
This article explains a microdermabrasion facial, including the procedure and its uses and risks.
What is microdermabrasion?
Microdermabrasion is a form of
The technique works by slightly damaging skin to stimulate collagen production. Collagen is the protein that keeps skin smooth and tight. Collagen declines with age, resulting in fine lines and skin that loses tautness.
When the skin experiences damage, it makes collagen in the process of healing. This helps rejuvenate the skin and stimulate new growth.
Why is microdermabrasion performed?
Microdermabrasion benefits are numerous and include
- acne and acne scars
- age spots and areas of hyperpigmentation
- fine lines and wrinkles
- large pores
- stretch marks
- uneven skin tone or texture
This results in better skin texture and a refreshed, even complexion. You may notice softer skin and less prominent pores.
Doctors may recommend microdermabrasion toboost skin bleaching treatments or reduce the effects of skin aging.
Dermatologists and plastic or cosmetic surgeons usually offer microdermabrasion as part of a medical spa service. A medical esthetician, medical assistant, nurse, or other trained clinician
Salons and nonmedical spas may also have microdermabrasion treatments.
Always verify that microdermabrasion professionals have the proper training and use sterile equipment.
There are also kits for microdermabrasion at home. However, professionals can treat the skin slightly deeper than at-home kits.
How is microdermabrasion performed?
There aretwo techniques for performing microdermabrasion. They both employ handheld devices that remove the
Crystal-based microdermabrasion
This older method uses tiny abrasive crystals. The device pulls the skin inside it and propels the crystals at your skin at a specified rate. A vacuum sucks away the crystals and dead skin cells.
As the clinician moves the device over your skin, the device clears the stratum corneum. The flow rate determines how deep the microdermabrasion goes. One treatment typically requires three passes over the area and takes up to an hour.
Before the procedure, the clinician will cleanse your skin and place wet gauze over your eyes. This keeps the crystals from irritating them.
Afterward, the clinician will wipe your face clean and apply a moisturizer.
Crystal-free microdermabrasion
Crystal-free microdermabrasion is a newer method. It uses a wand with a diamond chip tip. The procedure is similar to the crystal-based one. Instead of blasting the skin, the wand grinds off the stratum corneum.
What are the risks and potential complications of microdermabrasion?
Risks and complications from microdermabrasion can be
- bruising and petechiae, which are tiny red or discolored spots from microbleeding
- increased sensitivity to sunlight
- redness or discoloration, stinging, or other skin irritation
- swollen areas
- tenderness
Eye irritation can occur with crystal-based methods if the crystals get in your eye.
Skin infection is also possible.
How do I prepare for microdermabrasion?
Preparing for microdermabrasionmainly involves a thorough consultation with your clinician. This will include reviewing your skin care routine, medical history, and medications. Be sure to include all over-the-counter products you take, such as vitamins and supplements.
It may be necessary to stop certain products and practices for days before and after microdermabrasion,including:
- exfoliating products and acne treatments, including tretinoin
- exposing yourself to the sun
- waxing
During the consultation, ask questions and define expectations. Questions you may want to ask include:
- Am I a candidate for microdermabrasion?
- Are there any products or practices I should stop before or after microdermabrasion?
- Am I at a higher risk of side effects for any reason?
- What results can I expect?
- How many treatments will I need and how far apart?
- How much will each treatment cost? Do you offer treatment bundles or multiple treatment discounts?
- Do you have microdermabrasion before and after pictures of your clients I can see?
What can I expect after microdermabrasion?
After microdermabrasion, the skin may have redness or discoloration and swelling. This typically resolves within a few hours of treatment. Then, the skin may become dry and flaky for a few days. Applying moisturizer and other recommended skin care products can help.
You will need to be extra vigilant about protecting your skin from sun exposure for several days. Regular use of daily sunscreen can helpmaintain results.
Other than these minor issues, there is almost no downtime with microdermabrasion.
Frequently asked questions
Here are some questions people often ask about microdermabrasion.
What is the difference between microdermabrasion and dermabrasion?
Microdermabrasion is gentler than dermabrasion because it does not go as deep. The skin has
Dermabrasion, on the other hand, can go into the midlevel of the reticular dermis, the deepest layer of the dermis. It requires a surgeon’s expertise using a local or general anesthetic.
Learn more about the difference between microdermabrasion and dermabrasion.
How often do you need microdermabrasion?
Aseries of treatments is usually necessary to see noticeable results. Clinicians may recommend treatments weekly, biweekly, or monthly for the initial series. However, these results are temporary. To maintain the look of your skin, you will likely need periodic treatments.
Summary
Microdermabrasion is one option for superficial skin resurfacing. It is a gentle treatment that removes only the outermost layer of skin.
By stimulating collagen production, the skin eventually appears smoother and more even-toned. The process typically involves a series of initial treatments. To keep skin looking rejuvenated, maintenance treatments are usually necessary.
