Your Guide To Microdermabrasion In 2024
Posted on Jan 10, 2024
Microdermabrasion treatment is a minimally invasive procedure that can stimulate collagen production and improve skin tone and texture. It works by gently removing the top layer of skin.
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What Is Microdermabrasion?
You’ve probably heard the term microdermabrasion before, but might not know much about it. So, what does microdermabrasion do, and how exactly does microdermabrasion work?
Basically, a microdermabrasion facial is a very thorough exfoliation: it’s a non-invasive treatment that uses fine crystals to gently sand off the very outer layer of skin, taking off dead skin cells in the process.
This results in smoother, brighter skin in the treated area- removing the dead cells also allows your skin to breathe more easily, which can be great for anyone with clogged pores or blackheads.
During the microdermabrasion procedure, the dermatologist uses a special diamond tipped wand- there are tiny crystals of diamond dust embedded in this wand, and a vacuum in the center to suck up everything that’s removed during the treatment.
This minimally invasive cosmetic procedure will help to exfoliate your skin, stimulate blood flow, and brighten a dull complexion. One of the biggest benefits of microdermabrasion is that there’s no downtime and it’s gentler than chemical peels.
Although most dermatologists and estheticians use a diamond-tip handpiece, there are some alternative methods available to diamond microdermabrasion sessions: crystal microdermabrasion is a technique that uses aluminum oxide crystals to exfoliate the outer layer of your skin by blasting them onto the skin and then vacuuming them up again quickly, and hydradermabrasion uses jets of water (sometimes infused with serums) during the procedure.
Many people ask about dermaplaning vs microdermabrasion- while there are some similarities because they both involve exfoliating the skin, dermaplaning uses a small scalpel to scrape off the top layer of dead cells, and doesn’t go as deep as microdermabrasion, which exfoliates and sucks away debris and dead skin.
Who Is Microdermabrasion For?
Almost anyone can get microdermabrasion treatments, since it works on all skin tones and skin types.
That said, you might want to avoid this procedure if you have certain skin conditions like severe acne, rosacea, or very sensitive skin- always consult a healthcare provider if you’re not sure. A dermatologist should never perform microdermabrasion on someone with a rash or open wound.
In general, most skincare professionals perform microdermabrasion sessions on anyone looking to improve the appearance of their skin.
Because the procedure increases blood flow and collagen production (along with removing dead skin cells), it’s a popular way to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, fade age spots, and give you a more youthful appearance.
It’s not just for people with aging skin, though- many people use microdermabrasion for acne scars, enlarged pores, or to treat brown spots and an uneven skin tone from sun damage. Microdermabrasion can help to smooth out your complexion’s texture and reduce the appearance of discoloration and darkened skin.
Depending on your skin concerns, it may take multiple treatment sessions to achieve your desired results.
Note: If you have particularly deep acne scars or wrinkles, a dermatologist might recommend dermabrasion, which is a deeper and more aggressive treatment.
How To Prepare For Microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion treatments are relatively fast- the entire procedure usually takes about thirty minutes. But if you want to get the most out of the procedure, you’ll want to start preparing for it a week in advance.
First of all, don’t use any exfoliating products seven days before, including those with active ingredients like retinoids, glycolic or salicylic acid. These will increase skin sensitivity and might affect your microdermabrasion results or healing. Also try to avoid smoking or drinking a week before the treatment, since this can affect circulation and healing.
If you have any skin concerns, allergies or medical conditions, be sure to speak with your healthcare provider before starting treatment.
At the start of a microdermabrasion treatment, the dermatologist will cleanse your skin to remove makeup and excess oils. Then, they’ll gently run the microdermabrasion machine over the treatment area to remove dead skin cells. Afterwards, they’ll cleanse your skin again and apply sunscreen and a soothing moisturizer. This process is similar for both crystal microdermabrasion and the standard method.
So, does microdermabrasion hurt?
It shouldn’t. It’s normal to feel some pressure, roughness or tugging, but it should never hurt. Since they use a handheld device, skilled plastic surgeons and dermatologists should be able to adjust the pressure so that you’re comfortable.
After a microdermabrasion session, you should wear sunscreen and avoid sun exposure for twenty four hours, along with anything else that can dry out your skin. Make sure to stay hydrated and avoid touching the treatment area too much. You might notice some slight swelling in the top layer of skin for a few hours afterwards.
If you need multiple treatments to improve the appearance of your skin, you’ll want to schedule sessions at least two to four weeks apart to give your skin time to heal. After that, treatments can last up to three months, depending on your skin type.
Microdermabrasion Benefits
What is microdermabrasion facial good for, and should you try it?
There are a lot of benefits of microdermabrasion treatment, and since it’s a minimally invasive procedure, there’s no downtime and not a lot of risks involved.
This treatment can improve the overall appearance of your skin and brighten your complexion by removing dead skin cells on the surface- this also leaves you with a much smoother skin texture after the procedure.
These dead cells also contribute to blackheads and clogged pores, so some dermatologists use microdermabrasion as a treatment for acne.
Along with a more even skin tone, microdermabrasion can help reduce the appearance of acne scars, dark spots (including age spots), and even fine lines and wrinkles.
When you’re choosing a clinic or med spa to schedule your procedure, be sure to check out their website and compare their microdermabrasion before and after photos. You’ll want to know what to expect and select a place that delivers the results you want.
Microdermabrasion Side Effects
The side effects of microdermabrasion are usually minor, and most patients have no issues at all, but the ones that most commonly occur are redness, increased sensitivity, sunburn-like symptoms, and minor bruising.
Don’t be afraid to follow up with your dermatologist or healthcare provider before, after or during your treatment. If you have sensitive skin or bruise easily, you should mention this during your initial consultation.
Please note: you should never try to do microdermabrasion at home, and the kits that you see advertised online are either not recommended, or not actually professional microdermabrasion devices.
Recommendations
As soon as you finish your first microdermabrasion, you should notice smoother, more even skin. Many people say that they feel like they’re glowing afterwards.
Although microdermabrasion can make a big difference in your skin’s overall appearance, you’ll want to do everything you can to maintain this and take care of yourself after each treatment. Don’t forget to wear sunscreen, drink plenty of fluids, and use this as an opportunity to improve your skincare routine.
Citations
Microdermabrasion
https://link.springer.com/article/10.2165/00128071-200506020-00003
Microdermabrasion: an evidence-based review
https://journals.lww.com/plasreconsurg/Fulltext/2010/01000/A_Prospective_Controlled_Assessment_of.44.aspx
Microdermabrasion: a clinical, histometric, and histopathologic study
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/jocd.12252