Professional Microdermabrasion EquipmentAs someone working in the beauty industry, you have probably heard of the word Microdermabrasion before. It is an intriguing new process that promises clearer and healthier skin. But what exactly is a microdermabrasion treatment and how is it performed? Read along to find out.
- What Is Microdermabrasion Equipment?
To exfoliate skin and eliminate impurities via microdermabrasion, microdermabrasion machines are being widely used in professional salons. These machines contain diamond tips or tiny crystals which help remove dead cells, effectively leaving your face fresh and rejuvenated.
- What Benefits can Your Clients Get from Microdermabrasion Machines?
As mentioned, microdermabrasion works by removing cells from the outermost layer of the skin, promoting quicker cell regeneration which results in skin that is visibly firmer, more evenly toned and younger looking.
It can aid your clients with their skin problems such as wrinkles, stretch marks, uneven skin tone, hyperpigmentation, scars, and melasma.
- Types of Microdermabrasion Systems
There are generally two kinds of microdermabrasion treatments and systems:
- Crystal microdermabrasion, and
- Diamond microdermabrasion.
The end result is technically the same exact thing but how the machines work as well as the processes are slightly different.
- How Do Microdermabrasion Machines Work?
Almost all kinds of microdermabrasion machines have similar systems. One of the common parts is a pump that produces a high-pressure flow of salt or aluminum oxide crystals (for crystal microdermabrasion machines). It also often has a connecting tube that delivers the crystals to a handpiece, and a vacuum that sucks off crystals and exfoliated skin.
For crystal microdermabrasion, the crystals are gently sprayed over the skin via the wand to help exfoliate the skin. The wand also sucks all the exfoliated skin away during this process.
Diamond microdermabrasion, on the other hand, passes the diamond-encrusted tip directly onto the skin to abrade it while the wand suctions off the exfoliated skin.
People liken crystal microdermabrasion to a gentle sandblasting of the skin to make it smooth, while diamond microdermabrasion is likened to using sandpaper to achieve the same effect.
Microdermabrasion Treatment
- What Is Microdermabrasion Treatment?
Microdermabrasion treatment is a very minimally invasive cosmetic procedure used to rejuvenate the skin’s overall tone and texture. The appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, sun damage, acne scarring, age spots, melasma, as well as other skin-related concerns and conditions can be reduced through microdermabrasion treatments. This gentle exfoliation procedure promotes faster skin regeneration and cell turnover.
- Who Needs Microdermabrasion Treatment?
Anyone can benefit from a microdermabrasion treatment. However, people with wrinkles, fine lines, sun damage, age spots, melasma, acne scars, as well as other skin-related concerns would benefit the most from this treatment.
- Do Microdermabrasion Treatments Really Work?
Some people might have doubts but microdermabrasion works on all skin colors as well as on all skin types. Because of its minimally-invasive nature, the changes are very subtle and cause no skin color change or scarring. It usually takes between six to twelve sessions to see drastic results from microdermabrasion which is why some people choose to get treatments every week for the first three sessions.
- Microdermabrasion Results
While we did mention that it takes a minimum of 6 weeks to see drastic results from microdermabrasion, you can actually see immediate results right after your first treatment session. You will notice that your skin is more youthful, vibrant, and glowing and it will only get better within the first 24 hours as the skin recovers from the therapy and the new skin becomes more visible.
- How Often to Get Microdermabrasion Treatment?
Microdermabrasion results often last up to 30 days. After this period, you will begin to see a decline in the skin’s glow so people are recommended to get treatments at least once to twice each month for maintenance.
- What are the Side Effects of Microdermabrasion? Does it Hurt?
While microdermabrasion is a minimally abrasive treatment that doesn’t require anesthesia, it does pose some risks. Common side effects to microdermabrasion include minor swelling of the skin, redness (like sunburn), mild bruising, slight burning or stinging sensation, as well as an increased sensitivity to sunlight.
- How Many Microdermabrasion Treatments are Needed?
In order to achieve optimal results for issues like acne scars and the like, five to twelve sessions of microdermabrasion are recommended. To maintain a youthful glow, one session is recommended every two to four weeks.
- How Long Does It Take to See Microdermabrasion Effects and Results?
You can see instantaneous results after each microdermabrasion treatment. The skin is often glowing and vibrant. For longer term or more drastic results, it often takes between five to twelve weeks of treatment to see any visible improvements in the skin’s condition.
- What is the After-care for Microdermabrasion?
Since microdermabrasion isn’t an invasive procedure, a slight tenderness and sensitivity might be experienced. Below are some recommended after-care things to do to ensure a smooth recovery.
- After treatment, clean your face with wet cloth and then apply a hydrating toner.
- If skin is dry, regularly apply a rich moisturizer for 4-6 days after treatment in order to avoid excessive peeling.
- Regularly use sunscreen, even during an overcast day, as the skin is often more photosensitive after a microdermabrasion treatment.
- Avoid sun exposure for at least a week after treatment in order to prevent sun damage or hyperpigmentation.
- Drink plenty of fluids and eat fruits and vegetables with high water content in order to stay hydrated.
- Avoid touching, scratching, or picking at skin after treatment as it can slow down the healing process of the skin.
- Avoid tanning the skin or using harsh chemicals for a minimum of one week after the treatment procedure.
- Avoid waxing, using depilatory creams, IPL, electrolysis, or any other laser procedures on the treatment area for a minimum of two weeks after treatment.
- Avoid use of products with glycolic acid, benzoyl peroxide, retinol, or topical acne treatments for 24-48 hours after treatment.
- How Long Do Microdermabrasion Results Last?
As with all skin treatments, your mileage with microdermabrasion will vary depending your age or on how quick your skin’s natural cell turnover cycle is. Generally, the results of a microdermabrasion treatment will last for about a month or more depending on how good your skin’s condition is at the time. Fans of the treatment often schedule their appointments at 4-week intervals.
- Can You Have Microdermabrasion After Botox?
Microdermabrasion treatments are allowed after Botox, but are generally not recommended within 24 hours of the latter. Excessive pressure or pushing on the skin can interfere with the effectiveness of the Botox treatment. Patients who wish to undergo microdermabrasion after a Botox treatment are often advised to wait for at least two weeks before they can finally get the exfoliating treatment done to allow the muscles to fully relax after the Botox treatment.
- Microdermabrasion Benefits
Microdermabrasion has a lot of benefits to the skin. Instantaneous benefits include baby smooth skin after each session. It also helps reduce the appearance of age spots and hyperpigmentation, while also stimulating the production of collagen which aids in improving the skin’s elasticity, thereby reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. Skin is expected to be clearer and brighter as the skin gets unclogged and circulation is improved.
Since it is a gentle exfoliation process, microdermabrasion also aids in getting rid of blackheads, acne, and swollen pores. It also deals with melasma, as well as uneven skin tone and texture. Microdermabrasion also helps reduce the appearance of mild scars such as acne and stretch marks.
Last but not the least, a microdermabrasion treatment helps increase the absorption of skin care products applied to the skin, which means that they can have better effects.
- Microdermabrasion Recovery Time
A microdermabrasion treatment, being a non-invasive procedure, has very little down time, if at all. Patients who undergo the treatment can immediately resume their everyday activities after getting the procedure. There may be some redness and swelling but this flushed appearance is just a natural reaction of the body and the skin to the added circulation that it is experiencing. Patients may have to lay off using some products for 1-2 days after undergoing the treatment, but other than that, there is no “down time” after the microdermabrasion procedure.
- Microdermabrasion Pros And Cons
As with any treatment or procedure, the microdermabrasion treatments come with its own set of pros and cons. Let’s discuss the pros first.
In terms of benefits, a microdermabrasion treatment is advantageous in that it is less invasive, relatively safer, and painless compared to other facial procedures that produce the same results. This being said, this type of facial treatment has very quick recovery and is very cost effective. The results of microdermabrasion treatments are improved skin texture and smoother skin, even skin tone, less fine lines and wrinkles, and reduced oiliness. It can also lift small scars and marks, as well as improve the appearance of pores.
Now, let’s discuss the cons or the disadvantages. There are a few disadvantages to microdermabrasion. First, it cannot remove all scars and cannot treat severe cystic acne. It can only remove superficial wrinkles and fine lines. The effectiveness also decreases as the age of the patient increases. In terms of treating scars, the microdermabrasion treatments have to be done within 3 years of the scarring in order for it to be effective. Lastly, the treatment, while considered to be very mild and minimally invasive can still lead to some bruising and redness.
- Microdermabrasion Treatment Before & After
There are some precautions and things to remember before and after a microdermabrasion treatment is done.
- Limit exposure to sunlight, waxing, shaving, or chemical peels up to a week before and after a microdermabrasion session.
- Smoking should also be avoided before treatment to improve blood flow to the treatment areas.
- Vigorous exercises which cause a lot of sweating, saunas, as well as hot showers must also be avoided before and after treatment, or until all the flushing and redness due to treatment has subsided.
- Direct exposure to sunlight, including strong UV light and tanning beds, must be avoided completely right after treatment.
- Minimum of SPF 30 sunscreen must be applied for at least 2 weeks after each session
- Microdermabrasion Cost in the US
The typical cost of a microdermabrasion treatment in the US can range anywhere between $75 to $100. Patients are recommended to get 5-12 sessions which means it could cost a max of $1200 for the full treatment. The price depends on who is doing the treatment (aesthetician, nurse, or surgeon).
- How Long Is Microdermabrasion Treatment?
A microdermabrasion procedure typically takes around 60 minutes, including the preparation and cleansing. The actual microdermabrasion part roughly takes about half or ¾ of that time. Combining the treatment with masks or massages can increase the total session time.
- What To Expect After Microdermabrasion Treatment?
After a microdermabrasion treatment, the skin might be a little flushed, but this should eventually subside after a day or two. The skin can also feel a little like you have been sunburnt, which means it is quite sensitized after each session. After these, you can immediately start seeing the promised results such as clearer and brighter skin, and a more even complexion.
- Are Microdermabrasion Results Permanent?
Microdermabrasion results are not permanent. The treatment has to be done regularly to maintain the results.
- What are the Other Names of Microdermabrasion?
Microdermabrasion is also known as Parisian peel, Diamond peel, Lunchtime peel, or microderm.
Microdermabrasion Alternatives
- Microdermabrasion Vs RF Lifting
Radiofrequency (RF) therapy is also known as radiofrequency skin tightening. It is a nonsurgical method of skin tightening and involves the use of energy waves to heat the deep layer of the skin. The heat induces the increased production of collagen.
For mild issues like fine lines and small and light acne scars, microdermabrasion is the better option, but for deep scarring or severe discoloration, RF therapy might be a better bet.
- Microdermabrasion Vs Hydro dermabrasion
Hydro dermabrasion is a newer microdermabrasion method that uses water and oxygen instead of crystals in order to exfoliate the skin. It is considered gentler so people with skin conditions like acne and blotchiness, as well as those with sensitive skin will benefit more from hydrodermabrasion. People with resilient skin would benefit more from a microdermabrasion.
- Microdermabrasion Vs Microcurrent
Compared to microdermabrasion, a microcurrent therapy is a gentler procedure which involves sending electrical impulses to the skin in order to stimulate healing. It does not exfoliate, but it can tighten and lift sagging skin, boost blood circulation, encourage lymphatic flow, and regenerate skin tissues. It can also help with rosacea, acne, and wrinkles. It offers longer term results compared to microdermabrasion but is also limited to the outer layers of the skin like the former.
- Microdermabrasion Vs Ultrasonic Skin Scrubber
Ultrasonic exfoliation uses ultrasonic sound waves to remove dead cells from the skin, unclog pores, and eliminate blackheads and excess sebum. Compared to microdermabrasion, ultrasonic therapy is the gentler alternative and is perfect for those with thin or sensitive skin.
- Diamond Microdermabrasion Vs Crystal Microdermabrasion
When comparing diamond vs crystal microdermabrasion, it is easier to understand the difference by likening them to “sandblasting” (crystal), and “sandpapering” (diamond).
As the more traditional microdermabrasion treatment, the crystal method is slowly being replaced by the newer, diamond-tipped Microderm as these have been observed to be safer and more precise, which makes it a great option for any skin condition.
Performing Microdermabrasion Treatment
- Who Can Perform Microdermabrasion Treatment?
A microderm session can be performed by a nurse, a physician, an aesthetician, or any other trained medical personnel. A dermatologist consultation is recommended prior to doing any resurfacing treatments.
- How To Use a Microdermabrasion Machine?
When using a microdermabrasion machine, you have to make sure that all the accessories are attached before plugging in the power cord. Never add an accessory when the machine is on. Turn on the machine and then adjust the intensity. Turn off after use and disconnect the plug. Clean all attachments before storing for next use.
- How To Perform Microdermabrasion?
When performing microdermabrasion, certain steps must be followed.
- First, cleanse the skin with a gentle and oil-free cleanser then pat it dry.
- With free hand, pull the skin tight then rub the head of the machine on the skin, about 1-2 passes for each area.
- It is recommended to use the machine in an upward motion.
- Microdermabrasion Treatment Protocol
As part of the microdermabrasion protocols, practitioners are reminded to educate clients about the usual length and number of treatments required to see a significant change in the skin. Aside from those, here are other protocols for conducting microdermabrasion treatments.
- Cover client’s hair and clothing
- Divide face into 5 Zones
- Forehead (Below hairline & above eyebrows)
- Delicate Eye Area (Treated last)
- Mid-face (Nose, Cheeks, & Upper Lip)
- Lower Lip to Lower Jaw (Mandible)
- Neck and Décolletage
- After exfoliating the face & neck, repeat the process in areas that need more attention such as those with hyperpigmentation, wrinkles, or scars.
- After treatment, proceed with the following:
- Rinse face with cleanser then apply cool compress
- Apply a calming mask then place cool compress over the mask. Leave for 5-10 min.
- Remove the mask with a cool towel.
- Apply moisturizer and sunblock.
- Microdermabrasion Treatment Steps
When doing a microdermabrasion, one has to first divide the face into 5 facial zones: forehead, delicare area, mid-face, lower lip, and neck & decolletage. After that, proceed with exfoliating via the machine, paying close attention to the areas that need to be treated (those with pigmentation and scars). After that, rinse the face then apply a calming mask. Leave it for 5 minutes and remove the mask using a cool towel. To finish, apply moisturizer and sunblock.
- How Long To Wait Between Microdermabrasion Treatments?
Skin often regenerates every 30 days so treatments like microdermabrasion have to be repeated at regular intervals of two to four weeks.
- Microdermabrasion Treatment Areas
The microdermabrasion treatment can be done on the face, neck, back, chest, and hands. It can help reduce wrinkles, scars, age spots, and the like on the aforementioned areas.
- Microdermabrasion Treatment for Acne Scars
Microdermabrasion is a common treatment for lifting and reducing the appearance of acne scars, but it depends on the kind of acne. Ask a dermatologist to check if the procedure is appropriate for your individual scars.
- Microdermabrasion Treatment for Fine Lines
Undergoing a microdermabrasion treatment aids in removing old and damaged skin to expose younger looking skin and brighter complexion. The gentle exfoliation gets rid of fine lines and superficial wrinkles.
- Microdermabrasion Treatment for Stretch Marks
For things like stretch marks, microdermabrasion treatments can be a painless option. They are most effective for white stretch marks and work by promoting collagen production in the body to help improve the skin’s elasticity.
- Microdermabrasion Treatment For Sun Spots
The gentle exfoliation of a microdermabrasion treatment session helps polish away sun spots and other skin damage. It is similar to a chemical peel in that it takes away the top layer of the skin and removes damaged and aging cells.
- Microdermabrasion Treatment For Hyperpigmentation
Any unevenness in the skin color can be addressed with the help of microdermabrasion.
- Microdermabrasion Machine Maintenance
To maintain the quality of a microdermabrasion machine, each tip must be cleaned and sterilized after each session. The suction tubes must also be cleaned and hung to dry, and the filters changed regularly.
- Microdermabrasion Training
Available microdermabrasion training often requires prior knowledge of facial massage and skincare as a prerequisite. Some places require at least NVQ Level 2 qualification (Beauty Therapy), or have a dentistry, nursing, or pharmacy license.
- Microdermabrasion Consent Form
Undergoing a microdermabrasion treatment requires the patients to sign a consent form that makes sure that they understand what they are about to undergo as well as declare the products and treatments that they have recently had.
Benefits of Microdermabrasion Machine For Your Spa Business
- Treatments You Can Perform With Microdermabrasion Machine
Depending on the kind of machine you have, a microdermabrasion machine can also be used for other treatments. Some machines can be used for cold & hot, photon, skin scrubber, and ultrasound treatments.
- Instagram Hashtags for Microdermabrasion Procedure
Some hashtags that can be used in relation to the microdermabrasion procedure are:
- #skin
- #spa
- #antiaging
- #facial
- #skincaretips
- #laser.
- #beautysalon
- #esthetician
- Combine Microdermabrasion with Other Technologies
Microdermabrasion can be combined with other treatments to provide even better results. Examples of this include the Microdermabrasion + IPL combination which can lead to amazing Skin Rejuvenation results. You can also combine it with RF lifting or microcurrent.
- Microdermabrasion With RF Lifting
Combining RF skin tightening with a microdermabrasion treatment can treat all the layers of the skin in order to achieve the best results.
- Microdermabrasion With Microcurrent
Doing a microdermabrasion treatment with a microcurrent procedure combines two effective and minimally-invasive treatments to achieve a younger looking and more lifted and contoured face.