Back in January I had microdermabrasion done for the first time. If you’re unfamiliar, microdermabrasion is a procedure that that essentially sands off the top layer of the skin on your face (sounds pretty fun, right?)
I received this complimentary from my dermatologist, as her office has a skin care center across the hallway. I had a good amount of questions about it so I wanted to share more about my experience once I had my second appointment.
Why I got it done :
When speaking with my dermatologist about the fine lines on my forehead she recommend I use Refissa – a prescription cream to that will help with the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles over time. She offered to have me try my first microdermabrasion free, and had me schedule it a few weeks after I was consistently using the cream. (Sidenote – Refissa and other similar creams are meant to be used every 2-3 nights, not every night) Microdermabrasion can also help with dull complexion, uneven skin tone or color, age spots, dark spots from acne and melasma. (You can see more here)
So, what’s the point of microdermabrasion?
It is a non-invasive way to exfoliate your skin. Removing the top layer of your skin allows all good moisturizing creams and serums to penetrate deeper and work better.
What does a treatment like this normally cost?
From my research a microdermabrasion appointment generally costs between $75 and $200.
What is the appointment like?
The appointments are quick, both of mine so far have lasted about 30 minutes. First they prep your skin – I specifically didn’t wear makeup so she wouldn’t have to remove it. They then use a tool (either a diamond tip handpiece or a crystal emitting handpiece) to exfoliate then suction the dead skin cells off your face. It wasn’t painful, but it also wasn’t the most comfortable thing I’ve ever done. Afterward they apply a moisturizer and a sunscreen.
My bare skin right after the appointment.
What does your skin look like after? Are there are restrictions?
The photo above is my skin right after the appointment, as you can see its slightly red. Your skin is very susceptible to sun after so PROTECT IT! Sunscreen sunscreen sunscreen. Otherwise I was able to go right to the gym, but the sweat did burn my face a bit as she said it would. You are advised to not used any retinol or topical acne medication for 1-2 days afterward and to avoid prescription retinoid products for 3-7 days following the treatment.
What I learned from the esthetician:
I’m a total newbie to all things skincare so I found Jen to be really helpful. A few things she told me:
- Sunscreen is number 1!
- She actually told me about a derm who wears driving gloves all year round because your hands get a ton of sun exposure and show age easily.
- Dry skin ages worse than moisturized skin – SO MOISTURIZE. Because of this people with acne and oily skin actually age better than those with dry skin.
- She recommended avoiding toners because the alcohol base dries out your skin
- As well as avoiding scrubs (apricot ones, etc)
Is it worth it?
As I mentioned, my first appointment was comped and my second was discounted, so at those prices – absolutely. I definitely liked having it done, and my skin did feel amazing afterward, but I would not pay out of pocket to have it done as frequently as they suggest (every 4-6 weeks). I will probably go back and have it done at least one more time this year, but there are a handful of other procedures I’m curious about and want to try (like dermaplaning!).
Where I went – My derm is Dr. Green at Dermatology Center of Grand Rapids, and I see Jen across the hall at the Center for Skincare Excellence. Local ladies- I have had very positive experiences with both and really like the idea of seeing someone my derm recommends versus going to any salon. (I’m sure plenty of salons are amazing but…)
Moral of today’s story – Exfoliate, Moisturize, Sunscreen.
Anyway, hopefully that was somewhat helpful and answers any questions you might have. Thanks for stopping by today!
xo, Maddy
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