Microdermabrasion: All You Need to Know
The microdermabrasion facial has become everyone’s favorite treatment. Here’s why clients love it, how it’s done, the average price, aftercare tips + much more.
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Who doesn’t love a good facial? If there’s one thing beauticians have mastered, it’s giving you the complexion of your dreams.
The microdermabrasion facial is one of the most effective non-invasive, no-downtime, go-straight-back-to-your-day treatments. Clients love it and it gets rave reviews.
Here’s all the info on the microdermabrasion facial you need.
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What Is the Microdermabrasion Facial?
As professor Moetaz El-Domyati, MD., notes in his study, microdermabrasion facial is a mechanical exfoliation treatment that removes the outermost layer of dead skin cells from the face to reveal better skin underneath.
It appeared in 1985 as a less invasive version of skin resurfacing dermabrasion. Initially used to treat elevated burn scars, it was soon found to improve many complexion imperfections. Now widely available at salons and spas, it’s a highly recommended treatment for various skin issues.
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How Does Microdermabrasion Work?
Basically, microdermabrasion scrapes off the surface layer of the skin and removes the debris in one move. It is performed using a handpiece with a rotary tip, which can be:
- Diamond microdermabrasion — the tip has an abrasive surface that directly touches the skin.
- Crystal microdermabrasion — aluminum oxide crystals are released, and the tip rubs them against the skin.
The treatment causes microtrauma on the skin’s surface, boosting collagen and elastin production as the skin recovers, leading to long-lasting effects and resurfacing.
Is Microdermabrasion Safe?
Yes, as long as you find a licensed, experienced technician who can assess your skin and recognize its needs.
Since no living tissue is affected, there are no major risks like there are with dermabrasion, the more aggressive version of this treatment.
What Are the Benefits of Microdermabrasion?
According to Darius J. Karimipour, M.D. and his scientific review of microdermabrasion, the benefits include:
- Reducing signs of aging, such as wrinkles and fine lines
- Improving hyperpigmentation and melasma
- Diminishing shallow scars, especially acne scars
- Decongesting large pores
- Treating acne, as long as the breakout isn’t too intense
- Removing dirt and blackheads from the skin
- Reducing stretch marks
All these effects are followed by an overall improvement in the skin’s texture and appearance — something like the ultimate skin glow-up!
Image Source: Instagram @alexandrasskin_
All these effects are followed by an overall improvement in the skin’s texture and appearance — something like the ultimate skin glow-up!
What Does a Microdermabrasion Facial Look Like?
Let’s break down the microdermabrasion facial into key steps and see how the whole process works, how long it takes, what it feels like, and what to expect after it’s done.
Step 1: Pre-Cleansing
Before the actual treatment, your skin needs to be cleansed thoroughly to remove any makeup or skincare residues and sebum.
Step 2: Microdermabrasion
The technician will adjust the pressure and suction force based on your skin’s needs. They will use different tips for exfoliation and may switch between smaller and larger tips for the best results. Areas with intense acne will be avoided. Typically, two passes will be done.
Step 3: Cleansing
Although the suction will eliminate most of the debris, your skin needs to be cleaned to remove any potential residues. Typically, the technician will wipe it with a gentle cleanser.
Step 4: Optional Add-Ons
Depending on the needs of your skin, the microdermabrasion facial can be followed up with some other treatment to achieve maximum results, like microcurrent facial toning, or LED light therapy.
Step 5: Soothing Mask
Finally, some type of soothing mask is applied to the treated area to calm everything down, minimize redness and swelling, and provide nourishment and hydration.
How Long Does the Facial Take?
It’s a quick one — a microdermabrasion facial can last from 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on whether you’re getting any add-ons or not.
Does Microdermabrasion Hurt?
No. Since the microdermabrasion facial affects the dead layer of skin, there will be no pain.
Some clients find the sensation slightly uncomfortable at most, but others claim it’s actually pleasant.
NOTE
If you feel any pain or major discomfort, tell your technician — they may need to use a less gritty tip or adjust the suction force.
Are There Any Side Effects?
Typically, microdermabrasion is a non-invasive procedure and involves no downtime. You can resume your daily activities right after. However, don’t be scared or surprised if you notice the following:
- Some redness
- Minor swelling
- Minor bruising
According to dermatologist Preeti Savardekar, these side effects are uncommon and temporary.
NOTE
If you’re generally prone to allergies or currently taking any medications, inform your technician so they can readjust the choice of products for a 100% safe treatment.
When Can I Expect to See the Results?
The microderm facial delivers immediate results, but addressing concerns such as scarring, hyperpigmentation, or signs of aging may require multiple sessions.
Therefore, regular maintenance sessions are recommended for long-lasting effects.
Microdermabrasion Facial at Home
To do this facial at home, you’ll need a tool that is specifically created for at-home use to protect your skin from over-exfoliating.
This one is a beginner-friendly option you can find on Amazon:
Before using the tool:
- Stop using retinol, AHAs, or BHAs in your skincare routine.
- Cleanse your face, then start with the lowest setting and lightest tip.
- Gently pull the skin, use upward motions, and avoid going over the same section more than once.
- Finish by moisturizing with a nourishing cream or a soothing sheet mask.
How Often Should I Have a Microdermabrasion Facial?
After your microdermabrasion facial, these are the rules to follow for the most satisfying results:
Keep Your Skin Dry & Cool
In the first 24 hours after your treatment, avoiding activities that raise your body temperature, such as hot showers, saunas, steam rooms, and intense workouts, is crucial to prevent inflammation.
Start a Gentle Skincare Routine
A couple of days after the treatment, your skin might feel dry and you might get some flaking.
To help your skin get through it easier and faster, use a gentle face wash and moisturize it generously with a product for sensitive skin:
Don’t Pick at Your Skin
As you see, you can expect your skin to do some additional peeling. This happens because the microdermabrasion facial accelerates cell turnover.
In this case, just trust the process, as this phase will not last forever. Stick to your gentle skincare routine and make sure to avoid picking at your skin.
It takes some time and patience to see the results, but once the new skin resurfaces, it’ll all be worth it.
Stay Sun Safe
One thing you also need to know is that your skin will be sensitive to sunlight for the next few days, and you’ll need to wear SPF to protect it from sun damage.
How Much Does a Microdermabrasion Facial Cost?
Microdermabrasion facial prices typically range from $50 to $200, depending on location and salon exclusivity. Additional treatments can increase costs, and some spas offer package deals for multiple services.
Microdermabrasion Vs. Dermabrasion Facial
Dermabrasion is a more aggressive treatment, causing bleeding and requiring 1-2 weeks of downtime. It is performed for deep scarring, wrinkles, and blood vessels, with risks of scarring and discoloration.
Microdermabrasion is gentler, painless, with no downtime or serious risks, and is available in spas and salons at a more affordable price.
Microdermabrasion Facial — Main Takeaways
Microdermabrasion facials are an excellent treatment for various skin concerns. They can improve skin texture, reduce scarring, wrinkles, and discoloration, and enhance overall appearance. The treatment is fast, pain-free, and provides immediate results. Try it and enjoy perfect skin!
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