Microdermabrasion: Procedure, Side Effects, and Cost

Microdermabrasion is a minimally invasive procedure used to renew overall skin tone and texture. It can help improve the appearance of skin affected by sun exposure, wrinkles, acne, and other conditions.

The procedure uses 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 suction to accomplish the same outcome as using the abrasive surface. Read on to learn more about the procedure.

Microdermabrasion is considered a safe procedure for most skin types and colors. People might choose to get the procedure if they have the following skin concerns:

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the national average cost of a microdermabrasion procedure was $167 in 2020. The total cost will depend on your provider's fees, as well as your geographic location.

Microdermabrasion is a cosmetic procedure. Medical insurance doesn't typically cover the cost.

Microdermabrasion is a nonsurgical, minimally invasive procedure. There's very little you need to do to prepare for it.

It a good idea to discuss your skin concerns with a skin care professional to find out if microdermabrasion is the right fit for you. Discuss any past cosmetic procedures and surgeries, as well as allergies and medical conditions.

You may be told to avoid sun exposure, tanning creams, and waxing for about a week before treatment. You may also be advised to stop using exfoliating creams and masks approximately 3 days prior to treatment.

Remove any makeup and cleanse your face before the procedure begins.

Microdermabrasion is an in-office procedure that usually takes about an hour. It's typically performed by a licensed skin care professional, who may or may not be under the supervision of a healthcare provider. This depends on what state you live in.

It's not necessary to use anesthesia or a numbing agent for microdermabrasion.

During your appointment, you’ll be seated in a reclining chair. Your provider will use a handheld device to gently spray on the particles or sand away the outer layer of skin in the targeted areas. At the end of the treatment, a moisturizer as well as sunscreen will be applied to your skin.

Microdermabrasion was first approved by the Food and Drug Administration in 1996. Since then, hundreds of microdermabrasion devices have been produced.

There are a few different ways to do the procedure, based on the specific device used:

A diamond-tip handpiece is designed to gently exfoliate dead cells in your skin. At the same time, it will suction them off immediately.

The depth of the abrasion may be affected by the pressure applied on the handpiece as well as how long the suction is allowed to remain on the skin. This type of microdermabrasion applicator is generally used in more sensitive facial areas, like close to the eyes.

Crystal microdermabrasion uses a crystal-emitting handpiece to gently spray on fine crystals to rub away outer layers of the skin. Like the diamond-tip handpiece, dead skin cells are suctioned off right away.

The different types of crystals that may be used include aluminum oxide and sodium bicarbonate.

Hydradermabrasion is a newer method. It involves combining simultaneous crystal-free exfoliation and infusion of products into the skin. The process is said to stimulate collagen production and maximize blood flow to your skin.

Common side effects of microdermabrasion include mild tenderness, swelling, and redness. These generally go away within a few hours after treatment.

You might be advised to use a moisturizer to minimize dry and flaky skin. Minor bruising may also occur. This is mostly caused by the suction process during the treatment.

There is little to no downtime after microdermabrasion. You should be able to resume your daily activities immediately.

Keep your skin hydrated and use gentle skin care products. Avoid using topical acne medications for at least one day after treatment. It's extremely important to protect your skin with sunscreen. Your skin can be more sensitive to the sun in the few weeks after the treatment.

You can expect to see noticeable results immediately after the procedure. The number of microdermabrasion sessions needed will depend on the severity of your skin concerns as well as your expectations.

Your provider will likely design a plan for the initial number of sessions, as well as periodic maintenance treatments.