Microdermabrasion: What Is It and How Can It Improve Your Skin?

Microdermabrasion is a treatment that can make your skin appear smoother and more youthful, reduce pigmentation, and help with acne and scarring. Sounds great, huh?

So, how exactly does microdermabrasion work, and is it suitable for your skin? We're here to spill all. Keep reading to learn all about microdermabrasion and its skin-buffing benefits.

What Is Microdermabrasion?

The word microdermabrasion sounds pretty fancy, but what exactly does it mean? Well, as we know, micro means small or light. Dermabrasion refers to physical or mechanical exfoliation. So, together microdermabrasion means light, physical exfoliation.

Microdermabrasion is considered light because it only tackles the uppermost dead skin layers. On the other hand, a medium exfoliation removes more layers, so it’s close to the area between the dermis and epidermis. Deep exfoliation can penetrate intensely enough to cause some bleeding, but it offers the most dramatic improvements.

By removing the upper layer of skin with microdermabrasion, the body swiftly replaces the lost skin cells with new, healthy cells. The non-invasive treatment stimulates blood flow, contributing to enhanced cell production, improving the skin’s elasticity and texture.

There are various types of microdermabrasion treatments on the market nowadays to suit your needs. The traditional techniques used fine crystal dust blasted onto the complexion to scrub away dead skin. But today, many types feature rough ‘tips’ that glide over the skin to polish away dead skin cells.

There are also treatments that both exfoliate the skin and penetrate products into the skin, like hydradermabrasion.

What Are the Benefits of Microdermabrasion?

Let’s touch upon the various benefits of microdermabrasion a bit further.

If microdermabrasion is performed correctly and not overdone, you can expect smoother skin, less congestion, and a reduction in pigmentation. Microdermabrasion treatment also stimulates collagen production – hello plump, pillowy skin. This allows your products to work more efficiently, meaning your skin can become as glowing and gorgeous as you can imagine.

Most skin types are suitable for microdermabrasion, but you must do your research and find someone very experienced if you have sensitive or problematic skin. If you’re experiencing mild acne and scarring, then you’re likely to benefit well from microdermabrasion. But, if you suffer from severe acne, then microdermabrasion may not be the most suitable treatment.

If you have sensitive or problematic skin, consider speaking with your dermatologist, who can steer you toward the proper treatment. Nearly all types of microdermabrasion equipment enable the practitioner to adjust the intensity to offer a more gentle treatment for delicate skin. Likewise, they can provide a stronger treatment for those who can tolerate it or need a more powerful approach to reach their skincare goals.

If you have skin conditions like rosacea, active sunburn, eczema, herpes, open sores, psoriasis, it’s best to stay away from dermabrasion. As mentioned, speak with your dermatologist to tackle the initial skin condition first, then you can think about smoothing and perfecting your complexion.

Are There Any at-Home Microdermabrasion Products?

There are plenty of at-home microdermabrasion products, but if you go down this route, make sure you buy from a reputable brand and carefully read the products' instructions. Approach with caution the first few times to assess your skin’s reaction. You don’t want to end up aggravating your skin, after all.

The main difference between professional microdermabrasion and at-home treatments is that dermatologists' equipment delivers more power and penetrates deeper into the skin for more effective exfoliation.

Bioelements Pumice Peel can be described as a manual microdermabrasion treatment in a jar, and it’s an excellent option for those who want to dip their toes (or face) into the world of microdermabrasion.

The exfoliating scrub uses ultra-fine, spherical, pumice crystals to powerfully rub away dead, dulling cells for fresh, radiant skin. With consistent use, surface lines and wrinkles will reduce in appearance, and the skin will generally feel and look smoother.

Another fabulous option is Revision’s Finishing Touch microdermabrasion treatment. Use the product weekly to deeply exfoliate the skin, leaving it smoother and softer without having to step outside your front door. Oh, and it smells heavenly, too, delivering a zingy blend of bergamot, orange flower, and ginger.

Is Microdermabrasion Safe?

In the right hands of a professional dermatologist, microdermabrasion is entirely safe. But, remember that with any advanced skin treatments, side effects can include redness, dryness, and irritation. But, don’t worry, these will be short-lived.

Microdermabrasion doesn’t hurt, but you may find it slightly uncomfortable. Your skin may also feel a tad bit tender straight after the treatment.

But, if microdermabrasion is overdone, it can damage the skin, leading to more irritation, sensitivity, and inflammation. This, in turn, can result in pigmentation and broken veins, which is not what you want.

That’s why it’s super important to find a knowledgeable dermatologist who you can trust with your skin.

Do you want more skincare advice? Learn whether microneedling is worth it here.