What is Microdermabrasion?

Microdermabrasion is a cosmetic treatment that uses crystals or diamonds to mechanically exfoliate the outermost layer of the skin. This layer of the skin is called the epidermis.

The massage action of microdermabrasion on the skin helps to increase blood flow, while loosening and removing any dead skin cells that haven’t naturally fallen away.  These dead skin cells have the tendency to collect sweat, oil, environmental pollutants, make-up, dirt and other impurities, before the skin cells have shed completely.  And when this happens, it’s this layer of dead cells that exaggerate any fine lines, wrinkles, skin folds, and pores, making them much more visible.

Microdermabrasion can benefit all skin types as it helps to improve skin tone, texture, and colour, and it is an effective treatment for acne, oily skin, clogged or enlarged pores, scars, fine lines, sun spots, sun damage, uneven skin tone, and poor skin texture. It also helps to stimulate collagen production, and can dramatically improve the appearance of the skin by revealing the fresh, new skin cells underneath.

Most microdermabrasion treatments need to be done in a spa or salon by trained dermatologist professionals, and are gentle, non-invasive procedures that can be completed in 20 minutes. But, there are also gentle microdermabrasion creams on the market that can be used as at-home microdermabrasion treatments (like Arture Skincare Microdermabrasion Cream).

As microdermabrasion does remove the top layer of skin to reveal the new skin cells underneath, expect your skin to be red and patchy for a few hours after the treatment. Your skin may also be quite sensitive for a few days, and sun exposure should be avoided wherever possible. It is very important to moisturise well after microdermabrasion, preferably using a non-irritating, fragrance-free, nourishing moisturiser with an added SPF, to help protect the new skin cells. Even if your moisturiser has an added SPF, don’t forget to use a good quality facial sunscreen as well.