Microdermabrasion has been part of clinic skincare for a long time, and it is still one of the more approachable treatments for people who want to refresh their skin without a lot of recovery. Even so, it helps to know what it actually does, what it doesn't do and whether it is suited to your skin before you book.
What Microdermabrasion Involves
Microdermabrasion is a form of mechanical exfoliation. At Platinum Cosmetics, our treatment combines a diamond tip, water and controlled suction to remove dead skin cells and surface debris. The diamond tip gently buffs the outermost layer of skin, while the suction lifts away what has been loosened.
The treatment is adjusted to suit your skin, so the pressure and passes can be varied for different skin types and areas. Most people describe the sensation as a light scratching or vibrating feeling, with a gentle pull from the suction.
Which Concerns It May Help
Because it works on the surface, microdermabrasion is best suited to concerns that sit at that level. It may help with:
Dullness, where a build-up of dead cells leaves the complexion looking flat
Rough or uneven texture
Congestion and surface build-up
Skin tone that looks uneven
It is not designed to change deep lines, significant scarring or loss of firmness. If those are your main concerns, a different approach may be more appropriate, and that's something to discuss during your consultation.
Who It May Not Suit
Your clinician will ask about your skin and health before going ahead. Microdermabrasion may need to wait or be avoided if your skin is sunburnt, broken, actively inflamed or currently being treated for a skin condition. Let us know about recent treatments elsewhere, the skincare you're using (especially retinoids or exfoliating acids) and any medicines that make your skin more sensitive.
If you have a spot or mark that is new, changing or unexplained, have it checked by a GP before any cosmetic treatment on that area.
What to Expect Afterwards
Mild pinkness can occur after microdermabrasion and usually settles within a few hours. Your skin may feel smoother and look fresher straight away, although responses vary from person to person.
Microdermabrasion can also be combined with a customised mask or a professional peel chosen for your skin. It is included as one step in our Deep Clean Facial, which you can read about on our facials page. Your clinician will suggest whether a stand-alone treatment, a combination or a series of appointments is the better fit for you.
Aftercare and Sun Protection
Freshly exfoliated skin deserves a little extra care, particularly at this time of year. In Victoria, SunSmart notes that sun protection is usually needed from mid-August to the end of April, when the UV Index is 3 or above.
In the days after treatment:
Use a gentle cleanser and a simple moisturiser
Hold off on scrubs, exfoliating acids and retinoids until your clinician says it's fine to restart
Apply a broad-spectrum SPF50 or SPF50+ sunscreen every morning, such as Ultra Facial Defense SPF50, and reapply when you're outdoors
Wear a broad-brimmed hat and seek shade when you can
If you have a beach holiday or long outdoor event coming up, mention it at your appointment so the timing can be planned around it.
Is It Right for You?
Microdermabrasion can be a good option for people who want a gentle refresh and smoother-feeling skin, either on its own or as part of a broader plan. Details of this and our other options are on our Skin Health & Treatments page. If you would like to find out whether it suits your skin, you can make an appointment with our team in Port Melbourne.
