Microdermabrasion

How it works

A diamond-tipped or crystal-free wand glides over the face while a vacuum lifts away loosened skin cells. The pressure and number of passes are set by the practitioner. The treatment only reaches the outermost layer, so the skin renews itself over the next days. Because the effect is shallow, it is usually done as a series rather than once. How much you notice depends on your skin and the settings used.

Who it may suit

• Rough or flaky texture on the cheeks and forehead
• A tired, flat look from buildup of dead cells
• Mild surface unevenness
• People who want a quick visit and can accept a little redness
• Visitors who want a gentle option to begin with

The treatment day

1. Skin review. You discuss your skin, your products and your history. Say clearly if you have recent sunburn, cold sores, or use acne medicine.
2. Cleansing. Makeup and oil are removed so the wand moves smoothly across your skin.
3. Polishing passes. The wand is moved over the face in lines. You may feel light scratching or suction, and the pressure can be adjusted if you say it is too strong.
4. Soothing and sunscreen. A calming product and sunscreen are applied. Redness usually settles within a few hours.

Aftercare

• Use sunscreen daily and avoid direct sun for a few days.
• Use a gentle cleanser and a simple moisturizer.
• Pause retinoids, exfoliating acids and scrubs for the period named in your written instructions.
• Do not pick at flaking skin; let it come off by itself.
• Avoid waxing or hair removal on the face right after treatment.

Things to know first

• Redness, dryness, tightness and slight flaking are common for a short time.
• It is usually not suitable on active acne with inflamed spots, open skin, or sunburned skin.
• People with a history of cold sores should mention it, as stimulation of the skin can trigger an outbreak.
• Darker skin tones can be more prone to dark marks after skin injury, so ask how the pressure will be set for you.
• It cannot fix deep acne scars or sagging, and the effect is temporary.

Talking through microdermabrasion in English

The English word "peel" is used loosely. Some people say "peeling" for chemical peels, scrubs and microdermabrasion. Ask directly: "Is this a machine with a wand, or a chemical solution?" That one question removes most confusion.

Tell the practitioner how sensitive your skin is, and give a number if you can, such as "gentle, level 2 out of 10." Ask them to stop if it hurts. Pressure is easy to adjust during the treatment but hard to undo afterwards.

Ask whether the clinic recommends repeat visits, and whether a second one fits your trip. If you will be home before another session is possible, ask what you can do at home instead.