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The procedure will start with the doctor using a deep cleaning gel or foam to remove any make up, dust, or natural oils from your skin. A device will be applied to your face to abrade the uppermost layer of skin, i.e. rubbing it away via friction. This takes 30 40 minutes for the face and about 20 minutes for the neck. Afterwards, a moisturize will be applied. There are two types of device: The more common has a tip that shoots out tiny, rough aluminum oxide crystals that abrade your face before being vacuumed back up along with dead skin cells. It works something like a miniature sandblaster. The other type has an applicator that applies a fine diamond tip to scrape the skin from your face before the dead cells are sucked up in a vacuum. Microdermabrasion is gentle, non-invasive, and proven to make skin look younger and smoother. It can be used to treat a dull complexion, uneven skin tone or texture, age spots, acne scars, sun-damaged skin and wrinkles, though it has limited effectiveness in combating serious acne or hyperpigmentation (patches of dark skin). You may not be a good candidate for microdermabrasion if you have: Active rosacea Fragile capillaries or vascular lesions (appearing as red splotches on the skin) Active acne Warts Eczema Dermatitis Open sores Psoriasis (patches of thick, scaly skin) Lupus Uncontrolled diabetes The average cost of a procedure in the United States is $143, but it may be as low as $15 $40 in India and other Asian countries. Multiple sessions usually between 5 and 16 are required to achieve desired results. Many doctors offer financing plans to make the treatment more affordable for their patients. Microdermabrasion is performed by plastic surgeons and dermatologists, and also in spas and salons. Aestheticians at spas and salons may perform effective microdermabrasion, but these providers are unregulated, so you will minimize your risks by choosing a doctor. Doctors can examine your skin to be sure that microdermabrasion is safe for you. To pick a doctor: Talk to your friends. A referral is the best way to find a good clinic. Ask your physician for a recommendation. Read online reviews, but be careful. Reviews may be posted by clinic employees. You should have a consultation before scheduling your procedure to make sure you are comfortable with the facility, that microdermabrasion is safe for you, and to ask the doctor any questions you might have, such as: Are you certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery or the American Board of Dermatology? How many treatments will be needed? What are the possible side effects? Is the procedure safe for me? Do you have any before-and-after photos? How much will it cost? Do you have payment plans?
Know what to expect during the treatment. Decide if the procedure is right for you. Learn the costs. Decide where you will have the procedure performed. Schedule a consultation.