Microdermabrasion: Treatment, Costs and Aftercare

Microdermabrasion is a gentle, non-invasive skin resurfacing procedure that mechanically exfoliates the skin. Fine crystals or a diamond-tipped handpiece remove the outermost layer of skin and stimulate cell renewal. The result: a fresher, more even complexion with reduced pore size, fewer fine lines and improved scar appearance.

When Is Microdermabrasion a Good Choice?

Microdermabrasion is particularly well suited for:

Uneven skin texture and enlarged pores
Fine lines and superficial wrinkles
Acne scars (superficial) and surface-level pigmentation spots
Dull, lacklustre complexion
Early-stage stretch marks
Mildly sun-damaged skin

The treatment is not suitable for active acne, very sensitive skin, rosacea or open wounds.

Crystal Microdermabrasion vs. Diamond Tip

Two main technologies are used in professional microdermabrasion:

Crystal Microdermabrasion

A stream of fine aluminium oxide or sodium bicarbonate crystals is propelled onto the skin surface, abrading the stratum corneum. The crystals and exfoliated cells are simultaneously vacuumed away. This method delivers an adjustable level of abrasion and is well established for treating larger body areas.

Diamond Tip Microdermabrasion

A diamond-encrusted wand is moved across the skin under vacuum suction. The diamond abrasive exfoliates the surface while dead skin cells are suctioned into the handpiece. No loose particles are involved, making this method cleaner and preferred for use around the eyes, nose and lips. It allows very fine-tuned pressure control.

Feature	Crystal	Diamond Tip
Depth of exfoliation	Adjustable via crystal flow	Adjustable via tip grit and pressure
Particle residue	Possible	None
Use near eyes and lips	Less precise	Highly precise
Body areas	Well suited	Best for face

The Procedure Step by Step

A session typically lasts 30–60 minutes and is pain-free:

Thorough cleansing and disinfection of the skin
Even abrasion of the skin surface with the chosen device (crystal jet or diamond tip)
Simultaneous vacuum suction of exfoliated cells
Application of soothing and hydrating post-treatment products

The skin may appear slightly flushed immediately after the session, which normally subsides within a few hours.

Before and After: What to Expect

Directly after treatment, the skin looks fresher and feels smoother. For optimal results, a course of multiple sessions at intervals of 2–4 weeks is recommended. A treatment series of 4–6 sessions delivers the best long-term outcomes for acne scarring or pigmentation. Maintenance sessions every 4–8 weeks help sustain the improvement.

Possible Risks and Side Effects

Microdermabrasion is considered a very safe procedure. Possible, mostly temporary side effects include:

Mild redness for a few hours
Temporary skin sensitivity
Slight sensation of tightness

Serious side effects are very rare when the treatment is performed by a trained professional.

Aftercare Following Microdermabrasion

Skin is particularly vulnerable after the procedure. Key aftercare recommendations:

Avoid make-up for 24–48 hours
Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+) consistently for at least 2 weeks
Use intensive moisture with gentle, fragrance-free products
Avoid saunas and intense exercise for 48 hours
Do not apply aggressive products (acids, retinoids) for several days
Avoid self-tanning products until redness has fully resolved

Microdermabrasion vs. Microneedling

These two popular skin treatments work at different depths:

Microdermabrasion exfoliates mechanically at the surface (stratum corneum). Recovery: 1–2 days.
Microneedling creates micro-injuries reaching the dermis, stimulating collagen production at a deeper level. Recovery: 3–5 days.

Both methods can complement each other in a combined treatment programme.

Costs of Microdermabrasion

Service	Cost
Single session (face)	from £60–£120
Single session (body area)	from £80–£150
Treatment course (4–6 sessions)	from £280–£600
Maintenance session	from £60–£100

Prices vary by provider, treatment area and technology used. Professional treatments in medical practices or specialist aesthetic clinics are recommended over home devices for targeted skin concerns.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should microdermabrasion be performed?

For an initial course: every 2–4 weeks for 4–6 sessions. For maintenance: every 4–8 weeks. Home devices may be used 1–2 times per week at low intensity. Over-treatment can compromise the skin barrier.

Can microdermabrasion remove deep scars?

No. Microdermabrasion acts only on the outermost skin layer. Deep scars cannot be eliminated, but their appearance can be visually improved over a course of treatments. Laser resurfacing or chemical peels are better suited for deep scarring.

Is microdermabrasion suitable for all skin types?

It is generally suitable for all Fitzpatrick skin types (I–VI). Caution is advised with darker skin tones due to the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation if treated too aggressively. It is not recommended for active acne, rosacea or open wounds. Always apply SPF 50 after treatment.

What does microdermabrasion improve?

Microdermabrasion improves: superficial hyperpigmentation, fine lines, rough skin texture, blocked pores, mild superficial acne scars and a dull complexion. It is not effective for deep scars, pronounced wrinkles or active inflammatory skin conditions.

How does microdermabrasion differ from a chemical peel?

Microdermabrasion uses physical abrasion; chemical peels use acids (AHA/BHA/TCA) to dissolve the top layers of skin. Chemical peels can achieve greater depth depending on concentration; microdermabrasion offers controllable mechanical exfoliation without chemicals. Both approaches stimulate skin renewal.