Microdermabrasion is a skin treatment that can achieve dramatic results. In this back-to-basics primer, we’ll explain how the process works, what type of issues you can treat, how much it costs, and more.
What Is Microdermabrasion?
Microdermabrasion is an exfoliation treatment that can be used on all skin types to create a smoother, brighter complexion.
Microdermabrasion can help with:
- Dull or rough skin
- Uneven tone
- Age spots or discoloration
- Fine lines
- Acne breakouts
- Clogged or enlarged pores<l/i>
The exfoliation process of microdermabrasion removes the top layer of skin called the stratum corneum. In addition to removing dead skin and any residue that’s covering your epidermis, the process also stimulates your skin’s circulation and promotes the growth of new skin.
When compared to chemical peels and laser treatments, microdermabrasion is safer, less invasive, and more cost effective.
Typically, the best results can be seen for those between ages 35 and 50, when signs of aging become noticeable. Depending on your skin and age, estheticians may recommend a series of treatments that are scheduled about every four weeks. Others may schedule a one-time treatment before a big event.
How Does Microdermabrasion Work?
There are two types of microdermabrasion procedures.
The more popular is crystal microdermabrasion that uses a specially designed tool that releases a pressurized jet of exfoliating crystals. Some salons also offer diamond microdermabrasion, which uses a crushed diamond-tipped wand to exfoliate.
With both processes, the microdermabrasion tool uses variable-flow vacuum suction to whisk away any dead skin that has flaked off along with the abrasion material.
Microdermabrasion is less intensive than dermabrasion, thus it requires no anesthetic.
UK-based skin expert Lorraine Scrivener says of microdermabrasion: “Some clients describe it as feeling like a windy day at the beach. The treatment is comfortable with a satisfying sensation of feeling hoovered, buffed, and polished to leave skin feeling squeaky clean and positively glowing.”
Immediately following a treatment, the skin may be tender or temporarily pink. However, it’ll resume natural coloring within 24 hours. Because skin may be sensitive for the first day after treatment, use a moisturizer and sunscreen combination product and avoid sun exposure.
What Are the Results of Microdermabrasion?
Following a microdermabrasion treatment, your skin will look softer and brighter.
Madonna’s personal esthetician uses microdermabrasion treatments as part of the singer’s anti-aging regimen. There’s no denying that Madonna’s complexion is not that of a typical 60-year old.
Anti-aging isn’t the only result. The esthetician for Cameron Diaz uses microdermabrasion to help neutralize her “uneven skin tone, sun damage, and hyperpigmentation” to create clear and radiant skin. The celeb said in her book that she suffered from severe acne from teenage years into her twenties. “I had the worst skin. I mean, I had terrible, terrible skin. It was embarrassing, and I did everything I could think of to make it go away.” Yet, thanks to her esthetician’s diligent treatments, her skin in her forties looks much better than it did in her twenties.
How Much Does Microdermabrasion Cost?
Typically, a microdermabrasion treatment costs $137, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons’ 2017 analysis.
At the Ogle School salon, microdermabrasion costs just $40 per treatment. Performed by supervised students in a professional salon setting, treatments are available in eight Texas locations: Arlington, Hurst, Fort Worth, Dallas, North Dallas, Denton, San Antonio, and Houston/Stafford.
Find out more about the affordable skin and hair services at Ogle School Salon.
