Can you do microdermabrasion at home?
The short answer is yes. The long answer is still yes but with a few more details you need to know before you buy a microdermabrasion kit to use at home.
Microdermabrasion has become one of the most popular skincare treatments in recent years. Many people love it because it is cheaper and less invasive than chemical peels and surgical facelifts while still improving the look and feel of the skin.
Microdermabrasion works by exfoliating the dry and dead skin cells-filled top layer of your skin. This exposes the softer and clearer layer beneath and encourages the growth of new skin cells.
For microdermabrasion to make a significant change to your skin, you need to undertake regular treatment sessions. Most dermatologists recommend monthly or once-every-two-months professional treatment sessions.
Most people get these treatments at the dermatologist’s office, a salon or at a spa. Over time, costs can add up. So despite microdermabrasion being viewed as a cheaper alternative to other more intensive facial treatments, it can actually be quite pricey in the long run.
Hence the question, can you safely and effectively do it at home?
Microdermabrasion at home
DIY Microdermabrasion is a practice that has already caught on with many people especially those who are looking for an affordable way to keep their skin soft and glowing. Instead of scheduling monthly trips to the salon or dermatologist, you can buy a microdermabrasion kit and do it yourself at home.
The biggest advantage is the reduced cost. You will spend less than half what you would pay to a professional, saving quite a bundle over time. With practice and patience, you will be able to do as good a job as a pro.
What to expect with at-home microdermabrasion
Before we go on, we have an important note on safety. Most people, regardless of skin type or colour can safely undertake DIY microdermabrasion. However, if you have open wounds, sores or a serious skin ailment, it is not a good idea to do it until you talk with your dermatologist.
Furthermore, keep the treatment to your face. If you need to treat any other part of your body, your skin doctor is the best source of guidance.
But don’t worry if you have sensitive skin. Microdermabrasion is strong enough to improve your skin but gentle enough that it does not irritate. In fact, it is not painful at all.
Before you cancel all your upcoming spa appointments, there are a few things to keep in mind concerning DIY microdermabrasion.
- Do not expect a flawless result. For one, the pros at the spa have lots of experience and are much better at it. Secondly, their machines are much more powerful. But by learning the right technique, following manufacturer instructions and patience, you can also become a DIY microdermabrasion expert.
- Finding the right kit is extremely important. Some kits are more powerful and will have better results while others will do a basic surface job that does not make a big difference to your skin.
- At-home microdermabrasion can do many things: smoothen skin, soften skin texture, remove uneven tones and reduce appearance of shallow scars. But it may not be perfect when it comes to more serious skin issues such as deep scars and wrinkles.
- As with a spa or salon microdermabrasion, recovery time is very short with few to no side effects. But it is still important to take proper care of your skin during this time.
- If a microdermabrasion kit causes irritation or any other adverse reaction, stop using it and consult your dermatologist.
Types of microdermabrasion kits
There are generally two categories of microdermabrasion kits: cream-based kits and machine kits.
Cream-based microdermabrasion kits are the cheapest and easiest to use. All you need to do is rub the cream on your face as directed. Small grains in the cream gently exfoliate your skin. Make sure you read the label and follow specific instructions provided.
Machine kits are more intensive and closely resemble those used at a salon. They require more work and care when using them. So make sure you start by reading all the instructions. Unlike exfoliating creams, machine kits use a diamond tip or fine crystals to clear the skin. Some kits come with a suction mechanism to vacuum dead skin cells and dirt.
Final verdict
Microdermabrasion at home is safe, effective and easy enough that you should seriously consider it. It is a low cost way to have a great skin day, every day.
