Microdermabrasion ranks among the most popular skin treatments in modern dermatology. Millions of people receive this treatment worldwide every year. A non-invasive procedure, microdermabrasion has earned recognition from dermatologists and skin care professionals due to its versatile use for many skin issues, such as hyperpigmentation and uneven texture. Clients love this treatment because it works well, needs minimal recovery time, and shows impressive results.
Let us explore microdermabrasion in full, from its proven benefits to step-by-step details and expected results. We will explain different techniques used in microdermabrasion, information about proper aftercare, and learn who makes an ideal candidate for this treatment.
What is Microdermabrasion?
The first microdermabrasion device was invented in Italy in 1985 with the goal of providing a gentler alternative to traditional chemical peels and dermabrasion.
Microdermabrasion works by gently removing the top layer of skin through controlled exfoliation and can be performed on a client's face, neck, back, hands and chest effectively. The treatment uses a two-step approach to rejuvenate your skin. A specialised device removes the stratum corneum, which is your skin's top layer. Your skin undergoes gentle abrasion in controlled conditions that triggers its natural healing response. This process stimulates new cell growth and increases collagen production, which plays a crucial role as the protein that keeps your skin firm and elastic.
There are two main approaches or techniques:
- Crystal Microdermabrasion: This method uses a specialised handpiece that shoots fine crystals (typically aluminium oxide or sodium bicarbonate) onto your skin's surface. The crystals work as a controlled abrasive while a vacuum removes them along with dead skin cells.
- Diamond-tip Microdermabrasion: A newer breakthrough that uses a diamond-encrusted wand to exfoliate the skin. This crystal-free method gives precise control and removes any risk of crystal scatter.
Progress continues to be made on this technique, and it can be argued that hydrodermabrasion is a modern variation. The field continues to develop groundbreaking ways to rejuvenate skin effectively.
Benefits and Uses of Microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion is used to effectively treats skin concerns of all types and has become one of the most popular methods of non-invasive skin rejuvenation, able to provide multiple benefits with minimal risk.
Some of the skin concerns that this advanced exfoliation technique treats include:
- Texture and Tone Issues: Smooths rough skin texture, balances uneven tone, and reduces mild scarring.
- Age-Related Concerns: Reduces sunspots, minimises fine lines, and brightens dull skin.
- Problematic Skin: Reduces the appearance of large pores, improves melasma, and lightens hyperpigmentation.
- Acne-Related Issues: Diminishes mild to moderate acne scars and clears congested pores to prevent breakouts.
Microdermabrasion stands out from traditional skin treatments in several ways. Primarily, the procedure requires no numbing agents to be applied to the skin beforehand and requires little-to-no downtime or recovery. This makes it an ideal choice especially when you have a busy lifestyle. The gentle process helps your skin absorb skincare products better and maximises the benefits of your daily routine.
You can also easily combine this treatment with other skin procedures; pairing microdermabrasion with facials or a mild chemical peel, such as a mandellic or lactic peel, is a common recommendation from dermal therapists.
There are also few risks for its use, although some pre-existing conditions demand caution. Make sure to consult your healthcare provider before proceeding if you have active inflammatory acne, deep scarring, or recent Isotretinoin use. On top of that, the treatment may not suit you if you have active skin infections or specific skin diseases.
The Microdermabrasion Procedure
The key to a successful microdermabrasion treatment lies in understanding the procedure and preparing correctly. Qualified professionals deliver this complete skin treatment with a well-laid-out process that ensures the best results.
The treatment starts with a consultation with a dermal expert to discuss the client’s skin concerns, medical history, and desired outcomes. As mentioned above, there are some conditions that could make microdermabrasion the wrong choice of treatment, so it is essential that this is an honest and transparent discussion.
Before treatment, the client should:
- Avoid sun exposure and tanning products for at least one week prior
- Discontinue use of exfoliating products and acne medications
- Stop using NSAID medications like aspirin or ibuprofen
- Arrive with a clean, product-free face
The procedure should take place in a clean, professional setting and generally takes around 30 minutes to complete. It begins with a complete skin cleansing before using a handheld device to remove the skin's uppermost layer through controlled exfoliation. Most clients feel a mild scratching or vibrating sensation during the treatment but is otherwise comfortable and pain-free.
Proper post-treatment care plays a significant role in achieving the best results. Skin may appear slightly pink and feel more sensitive than usual right after the procedure, but recovery happens quickly, and clients can resume their daily activities right away.
Key aftercare instructions include:
- Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen and avoid direct sun exposure
- Keep skin hydrated with gentle moisturisers
- Avoid harsh skincare products for at least 72 hours
- Refrain from strenuous exercise for 48 hours
What to Expect: Results and Side Effects
Clients should understand microdermabrasion results and timeline expectations before starting their skincare trip. The treatment provides instant visible improvements and builds lasting benefits over time.
Right after their first session, clients should notice their skin looks brighter and feels smoother as the treatment reveals fresh skin underneath. A single treatment gives your skin a temporary boost, while the most important improvements come from regular sessions. Research shows fine wrinkles, dullness, and pigmentation improve dramatically after three sessions.
The skin's cell turnover cycle determines how long the results last with improvements typically lasting about a month. People with younger skin might see shorter result periods because their skin regenerates faster. Each treatment builds on previous results to create better improvements in skin texture and tone.
Microdermabrasion is one of the safest cosmetic treatments available, and clients tend to experience only mild, temporary side effects. The most common reactions include:
- Redness that lasts from a few hours to two days
- Mild skin tenderness and tightness
- Increased sensitivity to sunlight
- Light skin dryness or flaking
- Small bruises in sensitive areas
These reactions usually go away within 24-48 hours. Applying soothing creams helps reduce any discomfort during recovery.
The treatment schedule depends on the skin condition and goals of the client, and dermal therapists will tailor this schedule based on the skin type and how it responds to treatment. Most skin experts recommend that initial treatments happen more frequently, every two to four weeks. Once desired results have been achieved, they can be maintained with treatments every four to six months.
See Yourself on The Other Side of Treatment?
Microdermabrasion stands as a stalwart of modern skincare and offers a safe and effective solution for skin concerns of all types. This gentle yet powerful treatment has helped millions achieve healthier, more radiant skin.
With so much interest in this treatment, there is a growing demand for qualified practitioners that can deliver this treatment, and the Australasian College of Health and Wellness is at the forefront of this dermal therapy education. Our undergraduate-level degrees in applied health science are unique in Australia, designed by dermatological and clinical aesthetic experts and
If you want to be an expert of dermal therapy providing microdermabrasion and similar advanced beauty treatments, we encourage you to learn more about our higher education programs:
- Associate Degree in Applied Health Science (Dermal Therapy)
- Bachelor of Applied Health Science (Clinical Aesthetics)
