Microdermabrasion: In office or at home?

Microdermabrasion is a mechanical, anti-aging procedure aimed at exfoliating the skin, making it softer, smoother and more even. The technique is safe and suitable for all skin types.

Clinical microdermabrasion

This technique can be compared to a minor sandblasting of the surface of the skin. Microdermabrasion is a relatively simple procedure that affects the horny or outermost layer of the epidermis. A high-pressure flow of aluminum oxide crystals is applied to the skin with a hollow wand, which is linked to a vacuum-type device that collects the oxide crystals, as they are projected, along with impurities, such as dead skin and sebum.

Indications for microdermabrasion

Clinical microdermabrasion is recommended for:

• Acne scars
• Fines lines and wrinkles
• Blackheads
• White heads
• Dilated pores
• Pigment spots
• Improved skin texture and clarity.

Contraindications for microdermabrasion

This technique is not recommended for people who have:

• Used isotretinoin (Accutane®) in the past twelve months
• Skin tumours
• Had a recent cold sore outbreak
• Warts in the treatment area
• Rosacea 
• Open acne lesions
• Unstable diabetes
• An autoimmune disease.

At-home microdermabrasion kits

In recent years, many cosmetic companies have launched “home-use microdermabrasion” products. Inspired by medical treatments, they contain a cream formulated with aluminum oxide crystals. But these treatments are more of an exfoliation than an actual medical microdermabrasion because they work only on the surface of the skin’s outermost layer.

Microdermabrasion kits can be useful for those who wish to improve the clarity and texture of their skin.

Used regularly, the kits can have an impact on:

• Skin tone uniformity
• Minor scars
• Fine lines
• Pigment spots
• Blackheads
• White heads.

They can also be useful in enhancing the absorption of active ingredients , such as retinol, glycolic acid, vitamin C and hydroquinone, contained in anti-aging products.

If you have questions about microdermabrasion or skin care in general, talk to our dermo-cosmetics consultants! They can help you select the products that best meet your needs.