How Does a Microdermabrasion Facial Work? A No-Fuss Path To Glowing Skin
As a child you remember moaning and groaning when your parents made you apply sunscreen, interrupting your outdoor fun.
But now as an adult, the days of glorious summer fun out in the sun are starting to catch up to your skin.
You look in the mirror and notice you are developing some fine lines and wrinkles. You might even have an age spot or two. These aren’t exactly problems, but they don’t make you feel comfortable in your skin.
So, what options do you have?
You may be wondering, is microdermabrasion good for your face? Can it help rid your skin of these blemishes?
This article introduces the process and benefits of microdermabrasion and explores how the procedure works.
Table of Contents
What Is Microdermabrasion?
Microdermabrasion is the most widely available non-surgical cosmetic procedure in the United States. It is a non-invasive skin care treatment in which the outermost layer of dead skin cells is removed to exfoliate, smooth, and refresh the skin.
The procedure is easy and safe. It is quick and relatively painless, taking about 30 minutes to complete.
Many people who seek microdermabrasion treatment for their skin wish to improve its appearance due to sun exposure, wrinkles, acne, or scars.
Holland, an experienced aesthetician at Skin Detail, specializes in microdermabrasion and facials. WIth her talent and knowledge, her clients feel safe and understood about their skin concerns. If you are interested in microdermabrasion, contact Skin Detail today!
How Many Layers Does Microdermabrasion Remove?
Due to its non-invasive nature, microdermabrasion only targets the top layer of skin known as the stratum corneum. This layer serves to protect the deeper layers of skin tissue from infection, dehydration, and chemicals.
The stratum corneum is made up of 15-20 layers of flattened dead skin cells and debris. When this layer is removed, it allows for fresher, more radiant skin to emerge.
Although the stratum corneum is thinnest on your face, this layer of skin consists of dead skin cells, meaning the procedure is not typically painful.
How Does Microdermabrasion Work?
Microdermabrasion usually consists of three phases:
Cleansing the skin
Using a device to exfoliate the skin
Caring for the skin
The procedure stimulates the skin to repair itself, leading to an improved texture, a more even tone, and a better overall appearance.
Step 1: Cleanse and Prep the Skin
Before your microdermabrasion treatment, you may be asked to avoid using harsh exfoliants or scrubs which can make your skin more sensitive.
You will want to abandon your daily makeup and moisturizer application the day you go for your microdermabrasion appointment. Makeup and moisturizers can prevent the wand from properly exfoliating the skin, making microdermabrasion less effective.
Before your procedure, a mild cleanser will be used to rid your skin of any potential debris from makeup or skin care products.
Your skin may also be assessed before treatment begins.
Your esthetician will evaluate the skin to ensure no infections or wounds are present and to determine your skin type. Knowing your skin type allows your esthetician to tailor your treatment to your skin’s needs.
Step 2: Exfoliate Using the Device
During microdermabrasion, the skin is exfoliated using a handheld device to loosen debris and wear away dead skin cells.
As dead skin cells are exfoliated, a vacuum is used to remove the debris.
Two different methods can be used for exfoliation:
Crystal Microdermabrasion: A stream of minuscule crystals is sprayed gently on the skin. The crystals are abrasive and loosen the top layer of dead skin cells while a vacuum is used to remove the crystals and the dead skin.
Diamond Tip Microdermabrasion: A diamond-tipped wand is used to smooth the skin and remove dead skin cells while a vacuum suctions away the debris.
The method used will depend on your skin type and your skin concerns.
If you have deeper skin concerns, such as scars or hyperpigmentation, you may elect to have crystal microdermabrasion due to its more abrasive nature. If your skin is more sensitive or you have certain skin conditions, such as rosacea, diamond-tipped may be best because it is gentler.
Step 3: Provide Aftercare and Moisturization
After the procedure, you may have side effects such as redness, slight swelling, dryness, or sensitivity.
To care for your skin post-treatment, it’s recommended to follow a few guidelines:
Avoid harsh products: Don’t use harsh products such as exfoliants for at least a week and only wash your face with a mild cleanser.
Use a gentle moisturizer: This will keep your skin hydrated. Hydrated skin is less likely to be dry and flakey.
Avoid direct sunlight: For the first few days, you should avoid direct sunlight if you can. If you have to be out in the sun, you should wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30+ because your skin is more sensitive to sunlight.
Avoid high heat situations: It is also best to avoid situations where your skin will be subjected to high heat such as saunas, hot showers, or intense work-outs. Your skin’s sensitivity in the 24 hours after microdermabrasion may cause stinging when you perspire. Therefore, it is best to avoid your body temperature rising to keep your skin comfortable.
Benefits of Microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion positively impacts the skin, leaving many long-lasting benefits, including:
Smoother texture: Skin cell removal stimulates the skin to make new skin cells which make your skin appear fresher and smoother.
Brighter complexion: Dead skin cells cause your skin to look dull. When they are removed, your skin has a brighter complexion.
Better product absorption: The outermost layer of skin acts as a barrier to keep substances from getting into the layers of skin. With this barrier gone, it is easier for products to penetrate your skin and work effectively to moisturize and nourish it.
Reduced appearance of fine lines and blemishes: Removal of dead skin cells encourages your skin to produce collagen. Collagen gives your skin elasticity and structure, plumps up the skin smoothing out lines and wrinkles, and gives your skin a more youthful look.
FAQs on How Microdermabrasion Works
What Are the Downsides of Microdermabrasion?
While microdermabrasion is generally safe and beneficial, there are some potential downsides.
Post-procedure, you may experience temporary redness, skin sensitivity, mild swelling, and dryness. Because of these potential side effects, some people with skin conditions such as rosacea, active acne, or very sensitive skin may decide to opt out of microdermabrasion and go for a facial instead.
The good news is, any negative effects or inconveniences are short-lived with most going away within the first 24 hours.
How Long Do Results of Microdermabrasion Last?
A single treatment of microdermabrasion can have immediate improvements on your skin, but the results typically last about 2-4 weeks.
The new skin cells that are produced because of the microdermabrasion will eventually die and become part of the outermost layer of skin.
Depending on your skin goals, treatments may be needed every 4-6 weeks to maintain the desired results. For long-term improvement, a series of treatments may be recommended.
Factors such as a consistent skincare routine and healthy lifestyle choices like a balanced diet may extend the life of the microdermabrasion. Other factors, such as your age and your skin type, may also affect how long the results will last.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Microdermabrasion?
If you have mild to moderate skin concerns such as dullness, mild acne scarring, fine lines, age spots, or uneven skin tone, you may be a good candidate for microdermabrasion.
Microdermabrasion typically has a positive impact on such skin concerns and is suitable for most skin types.
If you have active breakouts, recent sunburn, or rosacea you may want to avoid this procedure because those skin conditions cannot be treated with microdermabrasion.
Is Microdermabrasion Safe? What To Expect During and After
Microdermabrasion is a safe skin treatment — it’s a procedure that is non-invasive and does not require surgery.
The risks are minimal and mainly surface level, such as mild redness and swelling, or increased sensitivity. These effects are temporary and minimally uncomfortable.
There is little to no recovery downtime. You will want to avoid putting on foundation and blush or sitting poolside in the sun for a couple of days, but for the most part, you can go back to your normal activities immediately.
Reveal Your Best Skin Yet With Microdermabrasion at Skin Detail
Do you want your skin to look vibrant and healthy? Do you want to get rid of minor blemishes on your face? Then microdermabrasion might be for you.
At Skin Detail, our esthetician, Holland, can help you feel confident in your skin again.
She brings eight years of experience to her clients in a safe and nurturing space. She wants to help people love the skin they are in and build their confidence through microdermabrasion and facials.
And your skin renewal journey won’t end there. Holland offers expert advice to help you continue caring for your skin from the comfort of your home post-appointment.
Book a consultation now to take the first step in transforming your skin!
