What Is Microdermabrasion?
March 1, 2026
Microdermabrasion is a cosmetic procedure that removes the top layer of skin to cleanse and exfoliate it, clear away early signs of aging, and improve how your skin looks overall. A trained professional usually does it with a small handheld device, though at-home kits are sold in stores if you want to try it yourself.
This article covers what you need to know: the benefits, how to prepare, the risks and side effects, and more.
Simulated demonstration of microdermabrasion's surface exfoliation. Texture smoothed, pores refined, tone evened — the freshly-exfoliated luminous finish. No effect on deep wrinkles or volume loss.
What is microdermabrasion?
Microdermabrasion is a non-invasive cosmetic procedure that helps clear away signs of aging like fine lines and wrinkles. A wand sprays fine crystals onto the target area to cleanse and exfoliate the skin and lift off its top layer, so the skin underneath looks younger and fresher. (1)
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, it usually takes 30 to 40 minutes on the face and another 20 minutes on the neck. It is rarely painful, though you can expect some swelling and sunburn-like symptoms for a few days afterward. (2)
Seeing real results usually takes 5 to 16 sessions with a dermatologist or a professional skincare specialist. You can space those sessions weekly, every two weeks, or monthly, with the right interval depending on things like your skin type and why you are having the procedure.
Most people use it on the face and neck, but it works on any area of skin. The results are not permanent either, so you will need to keep up the sessions to maintain them. (3)
What are the benefits of microdermabrasion?
The whole idea is to smooth the skin, brighten it, even out the color, and improve how it looks overall. Most people turn to it for issues like these:
- A dull complexion.
- Uneven skin tone or texture.
- Signs of aging such as fine lines and wrinkles.
- Dark spots left behind after acne heals.
- Scars.
- Melasma, a common condition where dark patches form on certain areas of skin.
Dermatologists and skincare specialists also use it to get more out of skincare products, especially anti-aging and skin-bleaching ones, since the procedure helps the skin absorb them better. (4)
Dullness and clogged pores respond within 3-5 sessions. Hyperpigmentation and acne scarring need closer to 6-10 sessions before visible improvement — and often need to combine with chemical peels or laser for full results.
Microdermabrasion versus dermabrasion
Dermabrasion is the more invasive of the two. It uses heavier techniques to remove the top layer of skin, which is why it is reserved for things like scars from major surgery or accidents, severe acne scars, or tattoo removal.
Microdermabrasion also works on all skin colors, while dermabrasion is recommended only for people with fair skin. (5)
How to prepare for microdermabrasion
First, talk it through with your dermatologist and find out whether you are a candidate. Most dermatologists offer a consultation before microdermabrasion or any similar procedure. (6) Before you decide, it is worth asking:
- What results can I expect?
- How many sessions will it take to get there?
- Are there any side effects or risk factors I should know about?
- What is the total cost of the treatment?
- Can I speak with someone who has had the procedure here?
- Do you have before-and-after photos of patients treated at this clinic?
During the first or second visit, your dermatologist may examine your skin and take your medical record, including past cosmetic procedures, any allergies, and chronic conditions, to confirm you are a good candidate.
Because it is non-surgical, there is not much you need to do beforehand. Your doctor may ask you to avoid heavy sun exposure, tanning, and exfoliating creams, masks, and waxing for a few days before. You should also remove your makeup and cleanse your face before the procedure. (7)
Risks and side effects of microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion is not recommended if you have been treating acne with isotretinoin in the last 6 months. You will need to wait, since that medication raises the risk of serious complications, especially scarring. (8)
If you have any spots or skin patches that are growing, bleeding, or changing in an unusual way, tell your doctor before you go ahead.
A few days after the procedure, you may notice:
- Swelling or bruising of the skin.
- Sunburn-like redness.
- A burning or tingling feeling in the treated areas.
- Greater sensitivity to light, especially sunlight.
How long is the recovery?
In most cases there is no recovery time at all. Even if side effects show up, they usually clear within a few days, and your skin will be ready for the next session within a week. (9)
How much does microdermabrasion cost?
According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the average cost of a single microdermabrasion session is $137. Prices move around based on a few things: the number of sessions you need, the experience of the dermatologist or skincare specialist, the type of microdermabrasion, and your location.
Keep in mind that your health insurance will not cover it unless it is part of your treatment plan. (10)
Can microdermabrasion be done at home?
Plenty of online stores sell home microdermabrasion kits, and some spas and salons offer the procedure.
If you are going to do it outside a medical setting, it is a good idea to check with a dermatologist first. They can confirm the procedure suits your skin, make sure you are not setting yourself up for serious side effects, and show you how to handle any that do come up. (11)