What Is Microdermabrasion?
Microdermabrasion is a dermatological procedure that gently removes the top layer of skin. It is used to even out skin tones, fade acne scars, and brighten a dull complexion. Microdermabrasion is commonly performed by a dermatologist or esthetician. The procedure takes about 30 minutes and may be combined with other treatments. It typically does not hurt and may require several treatments to reach your desired effects.
This article explains microdermabrasion, including types of procedures, what it is used to treat, and what to expect during treatment sessions. It also includes details about how to prepare for a microdermabrasion session and how to care for your skin after.
What Are the Types of Microdermabrasion?
Microdermabrasion is a professional procedure that can be done by dermatologists and estheticians. There are two main types of microdermabrasion procedures—crystal microdermabrasion and diamond microdermabrasion. Both are used to exfoliate the skin thoroughly. During crystal microdermabrasion, microfine crystals are shot from a small tube onto your skin and simultaneously vacuumed back up. Think of this as working like a high-powered scrub. Diamond microdermabrasion is a crystal-free version that uses a diamond-tipped wand to exfoliate instead. Both forms of microdermabrasion have many benefits. Just one microdermabrasion treatment leaves the skin feeling soft, smooth, and radiant. A series of treatments can improve skin’s texture and tone. It can also reduce fine wrinkles, sun damage, acne/acne scars, enlarged pores, and even stretch marks.
How Long Does a Treatment Take?
The actual microdermabrasion procedure is quick—it takes just 15 to 30 minutes. Your technician will lead you to the treatment room, where you’ll change into a gown and lie down on the bed. Your technician will cleanse your face to prep your skin before doing the microdermabrasion procedure. After crystal microdermabrasion, they’ll cleanse your face again to clean away any stray crystals. Follow up with an application of moisturizer and sunscreen, and you’re done. Many salons, day spas, and medi-spas will also incorporate microdermabrasion into a complete facial treatment. In this case, you’ll also be treated to a mask and facial massage. For this, expect to spend about 60 to 90 minutes in the treatment chair.
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Microdermabrasion FAQ’s
How Many Treatments Are Needed?
How many treatments you will need is completely dependent on what your end goal is. As a one-off spa treatment, a session will leave your skin looking bright and feeling buttery soft.
Does Microdermabrasion Hurt?
The thought of having crystals blasted onto your skin or a diamond-tipped wand dragged across your face seems brutal. But it really isn’t as bad as it sounds. Some people liken the feeling to the rough lick of a cat’s tongue. Others describe it as a gritty facial massage or report feeling just minor tugging on the skin.
However it’s described, you needn’t worry. Because it works on just the surface layers of the skin, microdermabrasion isn’t painful.