Microdermabrasion (often referred to as Microderm) is a cosmetic procedure popular in day spas, doctors' practices, and medical spas in which the stratum corneum (dead outermost surface of the skin) is partially or completely removed by light abrasion. Different methods include mechanical abrasion from jets of zinc oxide or aluminum oxide crystals, fine organic particles, or a roughened surface. Particles are removed off through the wand/handpiece through which the abrasive particles come ^[1] The term dermabrasion itself refers to the more severe medical procedure carried out under general or light anesthesia.

Microdermabrasion is used to remove sun-damaged skin and to remove or lessen scars and dark spots on the skin. The procedure is not very painful and requires no anaesthetic. Microdermabrasion can be used medically for scar removal when the scar is raised above the surrounding skin, but is less effective with sunken scars. There is very little, if any, evidence that microdermabrasion stimulates collagen formation. Microdermabrasion can also be used for treatment of acne, but must be repeated periodically to be effective. Microdermabrasion should not be used on patients who have taken the medication Accutane (Isotretinion) in the previous twelve months.

In the past, microdermabrasion was carried out using abrasive crystals. However, in the last decade, it has become more common to use a wand with a roughened surface. This procedure requires no medical oversight and is commonly used in conjunction with facial spa treatments. These days there are a multiplicity of machines available for microdermabrasion.

The growth of the microdermabrasion treatment industry has led to innovations and there are currently a few different microdermabrasion systems available. In terms of professional microdermabrasion systems there are two choices:

1. Crystal microdermabrasion
2. Diamond microdermabrasion

Crystal microdermabrasion systems are the traditional treatment of choice and rely on tiny crystals that are blasted onto the skin to perform the exfoliating process. Although the crystal microdermabrasion system is still widely used, the introduction of alternatives has led to a trend away from this treatment system.

Diamond microdermabrasion systems operate without the need for crystals. The exfoliation process occurs when a diamond tipped head makes contact with the skin and abrades against it. In both crystals and diamond microdermabrasion systems the dead skin cells are sucked away from the face.

Home microdermabrasion systems are an increasingly popular alternative to professional treatments. These are cheap and very easy to perform, and although not as powerful as professional systems, can produce good results over time. There is a great deal of competition in the home microdermabrasion systems market with most of the big cosmetics and skin care brands launching their own home systems.

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