What should you know about microdermabrasion?

A clinician passes a handheld device over the skin to exfoliate the outermost layer and remove loosened cells. Some devices use a mildly abrasive tip; others use fine crystals or controlled suction. The session may leave the skin feeling warm, dry, tight, or mildly sensitive. It is commonly considered for dull appearance, rough texture, superficial marks, or clogged-looking pores, but it cannot correct deep scars or replace treatment for an active skin disease. The result is a temporary change in surface smoothness, while repeated care plans depend on the skin concern and its sensitivity.

Tell the provider about rosacea, eczema, active acne, cold sores, recent sun exposure, wounds, and products or medicines that make your skin more sensitive. Avoid arriving with irritated or sunburned skin. After treatment, wash gently, moisturise, and use broad-spectrum sun protection as advised. Avoid scrubs, waxing, strong acids, retinoids, and fragranced products until the skin barrier feels comfortable again. Do not pick at flaking skin, since friction can prolong irritation or leave uneven colour.

Ask for a clinical review if redness, burning, swelling, tenderness, crusting, or peeling is severe, spreading, or getting worse. Pus, fever, blisters, or a new patch of pronounced darkening or lightening should not be ignored. Seek urgent help for swelling that affects the eyes, lips, or breathing. These signs may indicate infection, a reaction, or an aggravation of an underlying condition rather than ordinary post-treatment sensitivity.

Ask which device will be used, how strong the exfoliation will be, whether your current skin condition makes treatment unsuitable, and which products must be paused. Clarify the expected recovery period, sun precautions, signs of infection, and whether a chemical peel or another approach would better match your goal.