Microdermabrasion is the process of using tiny crystals to exfoliate the skin and then drawing out debris and impurities with suction. It is a minimally invasive procedure used to renew overall skin tone and texture.

You would need to use a special applicator with an abrasive surface to gently sand away the thick outer layer of the skin to rejuvenate it. A different microdermabrasion technique sprays fine particles of aluminum oxide or sodium bicarbonate with a vacuum/suction to accomplish the same outcome as the abrasive surface.

It improves the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, age spots and brown spots, enlarged pores and blackheads, acne and acne scars, stretch marks, dull-looking skin complexion, uneven skin tone and texture, melasma and sun damage.

A microdermabrasion device has two functions. Firstly, the machine gently exfoliates your skin. This can be done by different methods. Some microdermabrasion techniques use a high-pressure flow of very small crystals at the skin. These crystals can be made up of a number of substances, the most common of which is aluminum oxide, but others can include magnesium oxide, sodium chloride and even diamond! As suggested by its name, diamond is often used for the exfoliation surface, although other minerals can also be used. The second function of the microdermabrasion machine is to remove the dead skin cells that have been exfoliated away by the crystals. This is done by a built-in vacuum which sucks away the dead cells. In most microdermabrasion devices, you can adjust the suction pressure to suit your sensitivity.

In salons and spas, microdermabrasion is often performed as a series of between 6 and 10 sessions, often spaced out by a week or two. After the initial sessions, you may find you need an occasional maintenance treatment to top up and continue the good condition of the skin. This may be done monthly or less.

After your microdermabrasion procedure, your skin may feel tight and dry and may remain slightly pink for 24 hours. Simply treat this like a sunburn and don’t put makeup on the skin for a day. Also, make sure you keep the skin moisturized and wear adequate sun protection, minimizing the time your skin is exposed to the sun. It is important to realize that after microdermabrasion your skin will be dry and will be more sensitive to the sun. To easily prevent associated complications, apply a natural and non-cosmetic moisturizer to soothe and hydrate your skin after your treatment. You will also need to apply adequate sun protection (preferably SPF 50+) for a few days following your microdermabrasion.