Microdermabrasion: Procedure, Side Effects, And Cost - Healthline

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What Is Microdermabrasion?Medically reviewed by Megan Slomka, MSN, APRN, FNP-C — Written by Lucie Wisco — Updated on June 14, 2024

What is it?
Cost
Preparation
Procedure
Side effects
Recovery
FAQ
Takeaway

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.

Microdermabrasion involves gently sanding away the thick outer layer of the skin using a special applicator with an abrasive surface. This helps to rejuvenate the skin.

Another 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, the cost, and what you can expect after.

What is microdermabrasion for?

Microdermabrasion is considered a safe procedure for most skin types and skin tones. People might choose to get the procedure if they have skin concerns, such as:

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
sun damage

How much does microdermabrasion cost?

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.

As microdermabrasion is a cosmetic procedure, medical insurance doesn’t typically cover the cost.

Preparing for microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion is a nonsurgical, minimally invasive procedure. While there’s very little you need to do to prepare for it, it may be helpful to discuss the following with the doctor:

what your skin concerns are to find out if microdermabrasion is the right fit for you
if you have had any past cosmetic procedures and surgeries
if you have any 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 a few days prior to treatment.

It is important to remove any makeup and cleanse your face before the procedure begins.

How does microdermabrasion work?

Microdermabrasion is an in-office procedure that usually takes around 30 minutes. It’s typically performed by a licensed skin care professional, who may or may not be under the supervision of a healthcare professional. 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. The skin care professional will then 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.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) first approved microdermabrasion in 1996. Since then, hundreds of devices have been produced.

There are several different ways the procedure can be performed based on the specific device used.

This includes:

Diamond-tip handpiece

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

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

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.

Side effects of microdermabrasion

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.

What to expect after microdermabrasion

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

After the treatment, it is important to do the following:

keep your skin hydrated
use gentle skin care products
avoid using topical acne medications for at least 2 days after treatment
protect your skin with sunscreen, as sun sensitivity to the sun in the few weeks after the treatment.

You can typically 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.

A skin care professional can design a plan for the initial number of sessions, as well as periodic maintenance treatments.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s better, microdermabrasion or microneedling?

Microdermabrasion and microneedling are similar procedures used for cosmetic and medical skin treatment. The option that is better for you will depend on your medical history, your budget, and the results you wish to achieve.

Who should not get microdermabrasion?

People with certain skin conditions like rosacea or those who regularly experience broken capillaries should typically avoid getting microdermabrasion.

How long does microdermabrasion last?

Microdermabrasion typically lasts 30 minutes.

Takeaway

Microdermabrasion is a minimally invasive procedure that involves gently sanding away the thick outer layer of the skin to help rejuvenate it. The procedure can help improve the appearance of skin affected by sun exposure, wrinkles, acne, and other conditions.

Microdermabrasion is generally quick and takes around 30 minutes to complete, with little to no recovery time needed.

Consider speaking with a skin care professional about your skin concerns to find out if microdermabrasion is the right fit for you.

Article Resources

FDA approval status for microdermabrasion. (n.d). http://www.dermanetwork.org/article/cosmetic-enhancements/fda-approval-status-for-microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion. (n.d). https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/cosmetic-treatments/microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion. (n.d.). https://www.cosmeticsurgery.org/page/Microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion. (n.d). http://www.smartbeautyguide.com/procedures/skin-hair/microdermabrasion/
Microdermabrasion. (n.d). https://www.asds.net/Microdermabrasion-Info/
Microdermabrasion: Minimally invasive procedure. (n.d). https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/microdermabrasion

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Medically reviewed by Megan Slomka, MSN, APRN, FNP-C — Written by Lucie Wisco — Updated on June 14, 2024

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