Microdermabrasion is a popular exfoliation treatment that helps remove dead skin cells, improve skin texture, and restore a smoother, brighter-looking complexion. While it is commonly performed by skincare professionals, at-home microdermabrasion devices offer a convenient way to exfoliate your skin as part of your regular skincare routine.
In this guide, we’ll explain how microdermabrasion works, its potential benefits, the different types of devices available, and how to safely perform microdermabrasion at home. We’ll also cover who should avoid the treatment, how often you can use it, and the common mistakes to avoid for healthier-looking skin.
What is Microdermabrasion?
Microdermabrasion is simply the buffing of the skin. It is a non-invasive cosmetic treatment that buffs away the outer layer of dead skin cells using a handheld device. It works in two stages: mechanical exfoliation lifts dulling debris from the skin’s surface, while vacuum suction draws it away and stimulates blood and lymph circulation underneath.
Think of it as the skincare equivalent of a nail buffer: a tool passes gently over the surface, smoothing rough patches and encouraging fresher skin to come through.
How Microdermabrasion Benefits the Skin
Microdermabrasion benefits the skin in several ways such as:
- Smoother texture: Softens rough patches and makes skin feel more even.
- Brighter glow: Reduces dullness so skin looks fresher and more radiant.
- Unclogs pores: Helps lift debris that can contribute to congestion and breakouts.
- Fades mild marks over time: Can gradually improve the look of light acne marks and uneven tone with a series of sessions.
- Boosts product absorption: Skincare can penetrate better after surface buildup is removed.
- Supports collagen stimulation: The mild resurfacing can encourage skin renewal, which may help with the look of fine lines.
Types of Microdermabrasion
There are two main types of microdermabrasion: crystal and diamond-tip. Let’s explore how they differ and which option may be suitable for at-home use.
| Crystal microdermabrasion | Diamond-tip microdermabrasion | |
|---|---|---|
| How it works | Fine crystals are sprayed onto the skin, then vacuumed away with the exfoliated skin. | A diamond-encrusted tip passes over the skin, exfoliating before the debris is vacuumed away. |
| Best suited to | Professional/clinic use | At-home use |
| Safety | Small risk of stray crystals reaching the eyes | No loose particles; generally the safer at-home option |
| Customisation | Limited | Interchangeable tips with different grit levels for face and body |
| Popularity for home kits | Less common | Most widely used |
For at-home treatment, a diamond-tip device can be the better starting point. There’s no risk of crystals near the eyes, and most kits include several grit levels so you can use a finer tip on the face and a coarser one on areas like the arms or back.
How to Perform Microdermabrasion at Home: Step by Step Procedure
Microdermabrasion is commonly performed professionally, but with the right equipment, it can also be safely done at home. Learn how to perform it correctly for smoother, healthier-looking skin.
Before we get started, it’s important to note that at home microdermabrasion is not suitable for everyone. If you have sensitive skin, are pregnant, or have any other health concerns, you should speak to your doctor before trying home.
1. Cleanse gently:
Cleanse your skin with a mild, oil-free cleanser to remove makeup, oil, and debris. Avoid harsh cleansers beforehand, as they can leave skin too sensitive for exfoliation.
2. Pat skin dry:
Dry your skin thoroughly with a clean cotton towel. Microdermabrasion devices work best, and most safely, on completely dry skin.
3. Exfoliate with the device:
Turn the microdermabrasion machine on. With your free hand, gently pull the skin taut in the area you’re treating, then glide the device over the skin in an upward, circular motion. Stick to one or two passes per area; more increases the risk of irritation.
4. Cover the whole face:
Work section by section until you’ve treated your entire face, keeping pressure light and consistent throughout.
5. Tone:
Apply a gentle, alcohol-free toner to help rebalance the skin’s pH after exfoliation.
6. Moisturise and protect:
Apply a hydrating moisturiser, followed by a broad-spectrum SPF 50+ sunscreen. Freshly exfoliated skin is more vulnerable to UV damage, so daily SPF is essential for at least a week afterwards.
Here, we have put the step-by-step tutorial for performing microdermabrasion at home:
Ideal candidates for Microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion may be suitable for people looking to improve mild skin concerns such as:
- Uneven skin tone and pigmentation
- Dull or rough skin texture
- Clogged pores and blackheads
- Mild acne marks
- Fine lines and age spots
However, microdermabrasion is not suitable for everyone. Avoid treatment over active keloids, warts, open wounds, or irritated or inflamed skin. If you are pregnant or have a skin condition, consult a healthcare professional before using a microdermabrasion device at home.
How often should you do Microdermabrasion?
Your skin needs time to recover in between microdermabrasion procedures, so dermatologists typically recommend waiting two weeks between treatments. However, follow the directions on the product you’re using for the most accurate information.
Overusing the product can damage your skin, so only use it as often as recommended. The frequency of treatments also depends on your skin type, skin issues, and what you’re hoping to achieve.
Mistakes to avoid with at-home microdermabrasion
It’s important to be mindful of certain practices when performing microdermabrasion at home to avoid potential skin damage
- Over-exfoliating: Stick to the frequency your skin type needs. More sessions don’t mean faster results, and can instead cause redness and sensitivity.
- Pressing too hard: Let the device do the work. Excess pressure can scratch or irritate the skin.
- Choosing the right microdermabrasion device: Choose a device that suits your skin type and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for safe use.
- Skipping a patch test on a new device: Test on a small area first, especially if you have reactive skin.
- Using actives beforehand: Stop retinoids and exfoliating acids at least 3 days before treatment, and vitamin C at least a week before, to avoid over-irritating the skin.
- Skipping sunscreen afterwards: Treated skin sunburns more easily. Use SPF 50+ for at least a week post-treatment, and reapply through the day.
Enjoy the Benefits of Microdermabrasion From the Comfort of Your Home
So, now you know how microdermabrasion can be performed at home. Just make sure that you are an ideal candidate for microdermabrasion, follow the recommended intervals between treatments, and carefully follow the step-by-step procedure to avoid any potential damage to the skin.
With the right equipment and procedures, you can achieve professional-like results and enjoy the benefits of microdermabrasion from the comfort of your own home. For more beauty tips and expert advice, stay tuned to Ray Cochrane Beauty School.
FAQ’s
1. Is it okay to do microdermabrasion at home?
Yes, it is generally safe to do microdermabrasion at home, but it’s important to follow the instructions carefully and choose the right product for your skin type.
2. Are at-home microdermabrasion kits any good?
Yes, many at-home microdermabrasion kits are effective at exfoliating the skin and improving its texture. However, results may vary, so it’s important to choose a high-quality product and follow the instructions carefully.
3. Do you put anything on your face before microdermabrasion?
Before microdermabrasion, it’s important to cleanse your face thoroughly and remove any makeup or skincare products. Some products may recommend applying a pre-treatment solution to prepare the skin for exfoliation.
4. How can I get the best results from microdermabrasion?
To get the best results from microdermabrasion, it’s important to follow the instructions carefully, choose the right product for your skin type, and use it consistently. It’s also important to protect your skin from the sun and follow a good skincare routine.
5. How often should I do microdermabrasion at home?
It’s recommended to perform microdermabrasion once every two weeks for oily skin and once a month for normal skin.
