
During the treatment, a concentrated stream of crystals is gently sanded across the skin surface to exfoliate the epidermal skin layer (top skin layer), while a suction device reabsorbs the used crystals and damaged/dead skin cells. This reveals healthier skin, and encourages the body to augment collagen production.
What is a microdermabrasion spray?
A different microdermabrasion technique sprays fine particles of aluminum oxide or sodium bicarbonate with a suction to accomplish the same outcome as using the abrasive surface. Read on to learn more about the procedure. Who is microdermabrasion for?
What areas can be treated with microdermabrasion?
Although the face is the most common area for microdermabrasion, any skin area, including neck, chest, back, and hands, may be treated. Microdermabrasion is sometimes referred to as "microderm," lunchtime peel, Parisian Peel, and Diamond Peel.
What are the active components of microdermabrasion cream?
The main active component in creams may include aluminum oxide crystals, which are used in the professional microdermabrasion equipment. Microdermabrasion cloths are also available in the skin-care products on the market now.
What is crystal microdermabrasion?
Crystal microdermabrasion, sometimes called microcrystal dermabrasion, is the form of microdermabrasion that originally came to the United States from Europe. And it's still the most popular type of microdermabrasion.

What is the powder used for microdermabrasion?
Aluminium Oxide is the correct name. These crystals are in fact high purity (99.6%) white aluminium oxide. It is a chemical compound of oxygen and aluminium. Aluminium oxide crystals are used by SkinBase Therapists during a professional microdermabrasion treatment because of its abrasive properties.
What crystals are used in microdermabrasion?
Aluminum oxide (corundum) crystals are typically used because they are nearly as hard as diamonds. Magnesium oxide, sodium bicarbonate (baking soda), and even sodium chloride (salt) crystals are sometimes used as well.
What minerals are used for microdermabrasion?
Microdermabrasion is a safe, effective form of exfoliation for all skin types and colors and is achieved with the use of inert Corundum Aluminum Oxide mineral microcrystals to remove dead or damaged skin cells.
What grit is microdermabrasion?
Microdermabrasion crystals are available in 80 grit, 100 grit, and 120 grit sizes. Each size distinguishes sensitivity levels and are indicators of granule size. Larger sizes are fine and gentle, while smaller sizes are coarser and more abrasive.
What is the difference between crystal and diamond microdermabrasion?
Crystal Microdermabrasion is more like sandblasting – serious clean for hard to reach areas, while Diamond Microdermabrasion can be compared to Sandpaper – best used on softer surfaces but will still deliver the goods.
Is microdermabrasion the same as diamond peel?
Diamond peel is highly similar to the regular microdermabrasion. But, the difference is that diamond peel uses a diamond-tipped instrument of different sizes and coarseness while the traditional method uses a sandblasting device to spray aluminum oxide crystals on the skin.
What does the vacuum used in microdermabrasion stimulate?
The vacuum used in microdermabrasion does stimulate cell metabolism and circulation. Generally, you can think of microdermabrasion as a more effective tool for surface exfoliation and AHAs as more effective below the surface. Using both peels and microdermabrasion in a treatment series is a common practice.
Does microdermabrasion clear clogged pores?
During a microdermabrasion treatment, dead skin cells and other elements that are clogging the pores are removed. These treatments can even be performed at specific depths to remove the topmost layers of skin which may be dull, dry and exceedingly damaged.
Which is better chemical peel or microdermabrasion?
Microdermabrasion vs chemical peel for sun damage As you can see, chemical peels will ultimately provide better, more targeted relief when it comes to specific issues. But for some people, it's a less ideal option because of its higher cost and downtime, making microdermabrasion a better choice.
Are aluminum oxide crystals safe?
Aluminum oxide crystals are safe and an inert material used for skin resurfacing. Crystals smooth, refine and re-texture skin flaws and uneven discolorations. Skin care professionals use aluminum oxide to modify the skin's surface. Example, scars, wrinkles, fine lines and pigment discolorations due to sun exposure.
How do you use microdermabrasion crystals?
Use the mixed micro-crystal cream and massage in a gentle, circular motion for three minutes. Be particularly careful with the cheeks, neck, and throat, as the skin can be softer. Wash the cream off thoroughly and pat the skin dry. Rubbing can aggravate exfoliated skin and cause redness or swelling.
What is microdermabrasion treatment?
What is microdermabrasion? Microdermabrasion treatments use a minimally abrasive instrument to gently sand your skin, removing the thicker, uneven outer layer, and has many benefits. This type of skin rejuvenation is used to treat light scarring, discoloration, sun damage and stretch marks.
How to get rid of wrinkles and fine lines?
Reduce fine lines and wrinkles. Reduce or eliminate enlarged pores. Treat acne and the scars left by acne. Microdermabrasion helps to thicken your collagen, which results in a younger looking complexion. Collagen is a protein in your skin which is abundant when you're a child and makes skin appear taut and smooth.
What is a minimally invasive procedure?
Minimally Invasive Procedure. Microdermabrasion treatments use a minimally abrasive instrument to gently sand your skin, removing the thicker, uneven outer layer, and has many benefits . Find a Plastic Surgeon. Patient Safety.
What is microdermabrasion used for?
Microdermabrasion uses fine crystals or minutes diamond-studded tips to abrade the skin and vacuum suction to remove dead skin cells.
Who can perform microdermabrasion?
The treatment of microdermabrasion can be performed by a physician, a nurse, aesthetician, or other trained medical personnel. It is recommended for patients to consult a dermatologist or medical aesthetician before starting any resurfacing treatment. Careful evaluation on the patient's skin for changes in texture, severity of photoaging, depth of scarring, and the type of skin from a specialist will help patients select the proper resurfacing modality in order to address the skin problems effectively.
How long does it take for microdermabrasion to work?
Much like brushing your teeth, microdermabrasion helps to gently remove skin debris. Since human skin typically regenerates at approximately 30-day intervals, skin improvement with microdermabrasion is temporary and needs to be repeated at average intervals of two to four weeks for continued improvement.
What is the best treatment for acne scars?
Individuals with deeper acne scars might be candidates for surgical dermabrasion or laser resurfacing.
How much does microdermabrasion cost?
Microdermabrasion costs may range from $100-$250, the average cost being around $100 per session. Costs have decreased considerably over the last five to 10 years as these units have become more readily available. Professional microdermabrasion can usually be obtained in a doctor's office, typically dermatologists or plastic surgeons, as well as aesthetic spas, and facial clinics. Microdermabrasion is quite affordable and much less expensive than other skin-resurfacing treatments such as dermabrasion or laser peels, which may cost around $2,500. However, they are not nearly as beneficial as the more expensive procedures.
What is the difference between microdermabrasion and dermabrasion?
Multiple treatments in combination with sunscreen, sun avoidance, and other skin-care creams yield best results. Microdermabrasion should not be confused with dermabrasion which is an invasive surgical procedure performed typically by dermatologists or plastic surgeons under local or general anesthesia.
What is the most common area for microdermabrasion?
Although the face is the most common area for microdermabrasion, any skin area, including neck, chest, back, and hands, may be treated. Microdermabrasion is sometimes referred to as "microderm," lunchtime peel, Parisian Peel, and Diamond Peel.
What is microdermabrasion?
Microdermabrasion is a non-surgical exfoliating treatment. A handheld device is used to “sand away” dead skin cells in order to make way for healthier cells. This noninvasive procedure has been shown to promote skin rejuvenation, increase cell thickness and boost collagen synthesis.
Why is microdermabrasion so popular?
With a reasonable price tag and little down time afterward, it’s no wonder why microdermabrasion is such a popular way to promote a more youth appearance, improve skin impurities and support healthier skin.
How long does it take for a microdermabrasion to work?
Patients report achieving the desired results four to six weeks after a microdermabrasion treatment. Generally, it is advised that it’ll take at least two weeks before skin redness and spotting will subside. You may also experience some skin peeling in the days or weeks following the treatment.
What is the vacuum used for in microdermabrasion?
During a microdermabrasion procedure, a vacuum system is used to propel an abrasive agent against the skin. The procedure works to exfoliate the skin and ultimately remove the outermost layer of the epidermis, called the stratum corneum.
How much does microdermabrasion cost?
The cost of a microdermabrasion procedure varies depending on your provider and geographic location, but it will likely be in the $100–$150 range. Because it’s considered a cosmetic procedure, it will not be covered by insurance in most cases.
What is the most common nonsurgical cosmetic procedure performed in the United States?
Microdermabrasion is one of the most common nonsurgical cosmetic procedures that’s performed in the United States.
How long after a syringe can you wear sunscreen?
All patients are advised to wear sunscreen or avoid the sun completely for at least one week after the procedure. You may not notice the desired results after just one treatment.
What is the most common area for microdermabrasion?
Microdermabrasion will blast your dull, dead skin cells, so you can see dramatic, quick results. While the face is the most common area for this procedure, any skin area, including the neck, chest, back, and hands, may be treated. Patients usually see great results after just one treatment like:
How to lighten dark patches of skin?
Better skin tone – Improve hyperpigmentation and help lighten patches of dark skin by sanding off the top layer of the skin to encourage collagen growth.
What is a faded scar?
Faded scars – Treat light scars left behind by acne. When the dead layer of skin cells is replaced by a smoother layer of skin, the scars will seem lighter.
Can you use microdermabrasion on your skin?
The treatment is low risk with rapid recovery. Microdermabrasion can be used on its own or in conjunction with chemical peels to help keep skin feeling smooth. Whatever your skin goal is, let Winston Salem Dermatology provide you with amazing results.
Does microdermabrasion remove age spots?
Reduced age spots – Microdermabrasion produces a very superficial depth of skin removal, so it works best with improving problems that are on the surface of the skin like age spots, blackheads, and acne .
How does microdermabrasion work?
Crystal microdermabrasion involves a hand-held device that streams tiny crystals across the skin. Other forms of microdermabrasion may use a diamond tipped tool to gently dremel away microscopically uneven layers of skin. During hydradermabrasion, a highly concentrated stream of water also achieves the same exfoliating effects of crystal microdermabrasion without the worry of potential debris irritating delicate areas around the mouth or eyes. However, this is not a particularly common occurrence since an attached vacuum simultaneously suctions those exfoliating crystals back into the machine, along with the dead or loosened skin. Eyewear may also be worn to protect sensitive areas. Each treatment will last about a half hour. You may feel a mild scratching as the procedure removes the superficial skin cells. Additionally, you'll notice a vibrating sensation akin to a massage.
What is crystal microdermabrasion?
Crystal microdermabrasion is one of three methods used in professional microdermabrasion treatments. This technique uses a minimally abrasive instrument to gently sand the skin with a highly concentrated stream of crystals, removing the thicker, uneven outer layer and revealing a more glowing complexion.
How long does it take for a crystal microdermabrasion to heal?
There is little to no recovery time following a crystal microdermabrasion treatment. Redness and swelling resolve within a few hours, and dryness/flaking may persist for a few days. Patients are advised to avoid harsh or irritating skin care products and limit sun exposure for a few days following the treatment.
Does microdermabrasion help with acne scars?
Acne Scars: Crystal tip microdermabrasion can help minimize the appearance of scarring.
Can crystal microdermabrasion cause rosacea?
Crystal microdermabrasion is not recommended for candidates with active rosacea, eczema, dermatitis, sunburn, herpes, lupus, open sores, psoriasis, fragile capillaries or widespread acne. Microdermabrasion could exacerbate these skin conditions.
Is crystal tip microdermabrasion effective?
Melasma: While melasma can be difficult to treat, Crystal tip microdermabrasion has proven to be an effective solution for some.
1. WHAT IS MICRODERMABRASION?
Microdermabrasion treatments use a minimally abrasive instrument to gently sand your skin, removing the thicker, uneven outer layer and has many benefits. This type of skin rejuvenation is used to treat light scarring, discoloration, sun damage, and stretch marks.
3. MICRODERMABRASION BENEFITS?
One of the more popular uses of microdermabrasion is to diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles that can happen from natural aging, stress, and sun damage, or photoaging. Microdermabrasion has been found as an effective treatment for:
4. HOW MUCH DOES A MICRODERMABRASION COST?
Like most things in life, the cost of a procedure on where you live and where you have your treatment done. Your cost can range from $75 to upwards of $300 per treatment. If you go to a fancy salon in an expensive neighborhood and opt for “the works” facial treatment, one can expect to pay a pretty penny for your microdermabrasion.
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What is microdermabrasion in dermatology?
Microdermabrasion is a popular cosmetic procedure because it works on both the outer layer of the skin (called the epidermis) as well as the deep layer of the skin (the dermis ). There are two basic types of microdermabrasion—crystal microdermabrasion and diamond microdermabrasion.
What are the two types of microdermabrasion?
There are two basic types of microdermabrasion—crystal microdermabrasion and diamond microdermabrasion. They both offer similar benefits, but the process between the two is slightly different. small_frog / Getty Images.
How does a diamond wand work?
Instead of using crystals to exfoliate the skin, a wand with a diamond-encrusted tip is passed over the skin. 1 The diamond tip abrades the skin and, like the crystal version, the exfoliated particles are then vacuumed away through the same wand. So, to continue the analogy, if crystal microdermabrasion is like sandblasting the skin, ...
Why is microdermabrasion wand closed loop?
Because the microdermabrasion wand forms a closed-loop system, the crystals are generally being suctioned back into the machine and not spraying out into the air to be inhaled. Good practitioners limit their clients' exposure to the crystals, so don’t let this scare you away from having a treatment done.
How are crystals sprayed?
Via the wand, the crystals are sprayed over the skin (think of it as gentle, controlled sandblasting for your skin). The crystals and exfoliated skin particles are simultaneously vacuumed away through the same wand. 1 Used crystals are sent to a second receptacle on the machine, and are discarded after every procedure.
What is the effect of microdermabrasion on the skin?
Microdermabrasion triggers a wound response in the skin. As the skin repairs itself, it becomes thicker, smoother, more elastic, and looks healthier as a result.
What is suction in skin care?
The suction aspect of the treatment is as vital as the exfoliation itself (it isn’t just helpful in sucking away exfoliated skin.) Called negative pressure in pro-speak, the suction stimulates the dermis, causing a remodeling process to occur.
What is microdermabrasion?
Microdermabrasion is a professional procedure that can be done by both dermatologists and estheticians alike. There are two main types of microdermabrasion procedures. Both are used to thoroughly exfoliate the skin.
How much does a microdermabrasion cost?
Depending on where you live and where you have your treatment done, cost can range from $75 to upwards of $300 per treatment. If you go to a posh salon in an affluent area, and opt for the works facial treatment, expect to pay premium for your microdermabrasion. If, instead, you opt for a no-frills microdermabrasion at the local salon your cost ...
How long does it take to get microdermabrasion?
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.
How long does it take for a sunburn to go away?
This usually fades within a few hours. For a day or so afterward, it might feel like you have a minor sunburn. Otherwise, you'll be able to go about your day right after your treatment without anyone any wiser about what you've had done.
Is microdermabrasion painful?
However it's described, you needn't worry. Because it works on just the surface layers of the skin, microdermabrasion isn't painful.
Is microdermabrasion cumulative?
But if you're looking for improvement of a specific skin problem, you really need a series of treatments to see any positive effects. The results you get from microdermabrasion are cumulative.
Does microdermabrasion help with wrinkles?
Both forms of microdermabrasion have many benefits. Just one microdermabrasion treatment leaves the skin feeling soft and smooth, and looking radiant. A series of treatments can improve skin's texture and tone and reduce fine wrinkles, sun damage, acne/acne scars, enlarged pores and even stretch marks. 1

What Is Microdermabrasion?
- Microdermabrasion is a non-surgical exfoliating treatment. A handheld device is used to “sand away” dead skin cells in order to make way for healthier cells. This noninvasive procedure has been shown topromote skin rejuvenation, increase cell thickness and boost collagen synthesis. The cost of a microdermabrasion procedure varies depending on your ...
Uses and Benefits
- Microdermabrasion has been shown tobenefit the skin in the following ways: 1. Improves skin softness, texture and “glow” 2. Improves acne, acne scars and age spots 3. Improves fine lines and wrinkles 4. Minimize pores and blackheads 5. Promote even skin tone 6. Reduce sun damage 7. Decreases visibility of pores 8. Decreases sebum (oil) levels 9. Decreases skin stiffness 10. In…
How Does It Work?
- During a microdermabrasion procedure, a vacuum system is used to propel an abrasive agent against the skin. The procedure works to exfoliate the skin and ultimately remove the outermost layer of the epidermis, called the stratum corneum. The skin then goes through a wound-healing process in which a new, enhanced and restored layer of skin forms. There are a few types of mic…
How to Prepare For It
- Microdermabrasion is considered a minimally invasive procedure. You don’t have to prepare your skin for the treatment, but it’s a good idea to speak your skin care professional about potential risks, allergies and adverse effects. Before the procedure begins, the skin care specialist will thoroughly clean your face and remove any makeup or lotions. After the procedure, it’s recomme…
Risks and Side Effects
- Microdermabrasion is considered safe and most patients don’t experience any side effects. The most commonly reported complications include: 1. Redness 2. Swelling 3. Tenderness 4. Bruising 5. Petechiae (red, brown or purple spots) It’s important that the procedure is done by a trained professional, and proper safety techniques should be practiced to avoid adverse effects. The eq…
Recovery
- Patients report achieving the desired results four to six weeks after a microdermabrasion treatment. Generally, it is advised that it’ll take at least two weeks before skin redness and spotting will subside. You may also experience some skin peeling in the days or weeks following the treatment. It is important to avoid sun exposure for a few days after treatment because the s…