Tools & Treatments
Microdermabrasion 101: Meet The Exfoliating Powerhouse
By Janell Hickman
Filed Under
Why Should I Do It?
Just like cleansing and moisturizing are important steps in your routine, exfoliation plays a key role as well. Microdermabrasion is considered a physical exfoliation because it uses a device to remove dead skin cells, improving tone, reducing congestion, and minimizing fine lines. However, microdermabrasion can’t solve skin marks and damage like birthmarks, freckles, or moles.
What Should I Expect?
Think of microdermabrasion like “an intense scrub-meets-vacuum,” according to Heyday Skincare Educator, Alexandra Serron, noting it’s much more comprehensive than any at-home machine. “The one that we use is kind of like a mini sandblaster,” she explains. The diamond tip wands gently buff and polish dead skin cells or dulling debris. (Yes, you read right: diamonds. They’re so tiny that they’re the perfect combination of gentle and effective to be used on any skin type.) The sloughed-off debris is removed through a vacuum setting, stimulating lymphatic drainage and giving your skin a smooth, refreshed appearance.
Does It Hurt?
No, but it is a professional form of exfoliation so you may feel a bit flushed afterwards—as if you’ve spent a day in the sun! Since it removes the outermost layer of your skin and gives your circulation a boost, you’ll immediately notice a rosy glow.
In terms of sensation, we typically compare it to a cat licking your skin—not painful, but perhaps not the most enjoyable either. Ultimately, your esthetician will assess if microdermabrasion is right for you (remember, all facials start with a skin analysis!), ensuring it will benefit your skin and help reach your skincare goals.
How Can I Prep My Skin Pre-Treatment?
We recommend you stop using any exfoliants or prescription topicals (like retinoids!) that would cause your skin to be sensitive at least a week before your treatment. Even if you’re used to microdermabrasion, you’ll still want to avoid products that can potentially lead to a negative reaction. (take a peek at our Microdermabrasion FAQs here!)
We believe clients should plan on getting a facial every four to six weeks depending on their skin type and skin goals. In terms of microdermabrasion, your esthetician will be the best judge, letting you know whether to expect it monthly or keep it to every other facial!
What Do I Do Post-Treatment?
Relax and enjoy your glow—it typically kicks into full effect after three days! Up the ante on hydration and sun protection in the days following your treatment. Around the 3-5 day mark, you can start to incorporate your regular products.
Serron cautions against sweaty physical activities or harsh conditions, like a sauna, for 24 hours following the treatment. “[Microdermabrasion] is still controlled trauma to the skin, so it needs to be handled like you would a baby's skin. I encourage people to let their skin heal as much as possible,” she adds. Any small breakouts (a.k.a. “purging”) you may experience are due to trapped debris coming up the surface and shouldn’t linger!
Her post-treatment product picks include a hydrating or a cooling sheet mask paired with a jade roller, chilled in the fridge. Then, use a calming cream like the Naturopathica Calendula Essential Hydrating Cream to further comfort the skin. This is a top-pick for sensitive skin types all around, or Heyday facial fans who opt for microdermabrasion as their enhancement of choice.
Shop Alex’s Picks:
Keep Reading
The Brand That Provides Perfectly-Dosed Products For All Skin Tones and Types
A Q+A with Common Heir co-founder & CPO, Angela Ubias Q: What inspired you to start Common Heir? A: Common Heir was largely inspired by the w...
The Best Father’s Day Gifts
Looking for the perfect Father’s Day gift? We've got every guy covered, from our handpicked skincare essentials to our fave way to unwind: a relaxi...
Our Top Gifts For Moms
You don’t have to know their skin type to get them a gift that’s just their type.
I Got It From My Family: From Skin Tips To Types
‘Tis the season to reconnect with family—near and far, immediate and chosen, as we celebrate the holiday season. And when you go to borrow some of ...