Microdermabrasion is one of the most popular skincare treatments on the market. It acts as a dead skin remover, but its transformative capabilities might not be as impressive as they first appear. In fact, microdermabrasion can cause lasting damage to the skin. In this blog, we'll cover what exactly microdermabrasion is and why it's damaging. We'll also cover the best alternative treatments.
What is Microdermabrasion?
Microdermabrasion is a non-chemical skincare treatment designed to buff away the top layer of your skin (stratum corneum). It’s a type of face exfoliator designed to remove dead skin cells.
Don't confuse it with dermabrasion. This is a stronger, invasive surgical procedure performed by dermatologists or plastic surgeons under anaesthesia.
Microdermabrasion is generally regarded as a superficial anti-aging treatment and supposedly reduces the appearance of fine lines, minor scars, wrinkles and age spots. Microdermabrasion before and after effects reportedly include younger looking skin and the overall feel of the skin being smoother.
The Benefits of Microdermabrasion
When answering the question "Is microdermabrasion worth it", keep in mind the next advantages. Speaking about the positive sides of the procedure, note that there are very few of them. The only scientific findings prove that it causes moderate effect. Skin improvements are mild and slightly visible. The procedure is effective for coping with:
- wrinkles;
- stretch marks;
- uneven skin tone;
- melasma;
- hyperpigmentation;
- scarring.
Thus, it eliminates visible skin imperfections. For example, hyperpigmentation after microdermabrasion seems to reduce. Yet, the topic is still debated since the negative effect of stripping away the skin`s barrier outweighs its positive side.
How Does Microdermabrasion Work?
The most common application method involves the use of a specialist microdermabrasion machine being scraped along the very top layer of the skin. Most microdermabrasion units are negative pressure systems that blast aluminium oxide crystals into the skin. Some systems also use sodium chloride crystals or positive pressure.
Does microdermabrasion work?
The method is not approved for its efficiency. More and more cosmetologists stick to avoiding the method due to its inefficiency. If you search the Web for unbiased feedback, you can find such statements as “Microdermabrasion ruined my skin”. Thus, the procedure is not working and causes more risks rather than benefits.
Why Microdermabrasion Can Be Harmful to Your Skin
Although microdermabrasion is marketed as a gentle and non-invasive exfoliation method, it can actually cause more harm than good, especially for those with sensitive, acne-prone, or thin skin. The procedure forcefully removes the protective outer layer of the skin, leaving it more vulnerable to irritation, redness, and moisture loss.
One of the biggest concerns is that microdermabrasion disrupts the skin barrier, which plays a crucial role in maintaining hydration, elasticity, and overall skin health. When this barrier is compromised, the skin becomes more susceptible to environmental aggressors, pollutants, and bacteria, leading to inflammation, breakouts, and premature aging.
Additionally, repeated microdermabrasion treatments can weaken the skin over time, causing it to become thin, fragile, and more reactive. This is particularly problematic for people with rosacea, eczema, or hyperpigmentation, as excessive exfoliation can worsen these conditions rather than improve them.
There Are 3 Main Types Of The Procedure:
Diamond-Tip
This method of microdermabrasion uses a diamond tipped instrument to erode the top layers of skin, whilst suctioning the dead cells away. The technician's applied pressure and the length of time spent on each area of skin determines the depth of the treatment. Expressing areas of skin concerns to the technician allows them to target specific areas of the face. This method is also used close to the eyes as a result of its precision.
Crystal
This technique uses a spray containing fine crystals to rub off the outer layer of skin. There is also an in-built suction system to remove the crystals and dead skin cells.
Hydra Dermabrasion
This is a crystal free exfoliation method which instead uses water and oxygen.




