How to Prepare for a Microdermabrasion

Medically reviewed by Luba Lee, FNP-BC, MS

Last Updated: February 5, 2023 References

Microdermabrasion is a cosmetic procedure to remove imperfections and make your skin look younger and healthier. A mechanical device gently removes the uppermost layer of skin, allowing new, healthier skin to grow in its place. The procedure is typically done on an outpatient basis in the office of a cosmetic surgeon or dermatologist, though some spas and salons also offer it. Treatments take about an hour and recovery time is virtually nonexistent. To ensure you get the most out of your treatment, you will need to choose the right provider, consult them regarding your health history, and prepare carefully in the week leading up to your procedure.

Part 1

Part 1 of 2:

Learning About the Procedure and Choosing a Provider

1
Know what to expect during the treatment. The procedure will start with the doctor using a deep cleaning gel or foam to remove any make up, dust, or natural oils from your skin.^{[1]
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Research source} A device will be applied to your face to abrade the uppermost layer of skin, i.e. rubbing it away via friction. This takes 30 – 40 minutes for the face and about 20 minutes for the neck. Afterwards, a moisturize will be applied.^{[2]
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Trustworthy Source
American Academy of Dermatology
Professional organization made of over 20,000 certified dermatologists
Go to source} There are two types of device:^{[3]
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Research source}
- The more common has a tip that shoots out tiny, rough aluminum oxide crystals that abrade your face before being vacuumed back up along with dead skin cells. It works something like a miniature sandblaster.
- The other type has an applicator that applies a fine diamond tip to scrape the skin from your face before the dead cells are sucked up in a vacuum.
2
Decide if the procedure is right for you. Microdermabrasion is gentle, non-invasive, and proven to make skin look younger and smoother. It can be used to treat a dull complexion, uneven skin tone or texture, age spots, acne scars, sun-damaged skin and wrinkles,^{[4]
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Research source}^{[5]
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Trustworthy Source
American Academy of Dermatology
Professional organization made of over 20,000 certified dermatologists
Go to source} though it has limited effectiveness in combating serious acne or hyperpigmentation (patches of dark skin).^{[6]
X
Trustworthy Source
PubMed Central
Journal archive from the U.S. National Institutes of Health
Go to source} You may not be a good candidate for microdermabrasion if you have:^{[7]
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Research source}
- Active rosacea
- Fragile capillaries or vascular lesions (appearing as red splotches on the skin)
- Active acne
- Warts
- Eczema
- Dermatitis
- Open sores
- Psoriasis (patches of thick, scaly skin)
- Lupus
- Uncontrolled diabetes
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3
Learn the costs. The average cost of a procedure in the United States is $143,^{[8]
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Research source} but it may be as low as $15 – $40 in India and other Asian countries. Multiple sessions — usually between 5 and 16 — are required to achieve desired results.^{[9]
X
Trustworthy Source
American Academy of Dermatology
Professional organization made of over 20,000 certified dermatologists
Go to source} Many doctors offer financing plans to make the treatment more affordable for their patients.
4
Decide where you will have the procedure performed. Microdermabrasion is performed by plastic surgeons and dermatologists, and also in spas and salons. Aestheticians at spas and salons may perform effective microdermabrasion, but these providers are unregulated, so you will minimize your risks by choosing a doctor.^{[10]
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Research source} Doctors can examine your skin to be sure that microdermabrasion is safe for you. To pick a doctor:^{[11]
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Research source}
- Talk to your friends. A referral is the best way to find a good clinic.
- Ask your physician for a recommendation.
- Read online reviews, but be careful. Reviews may be posted by clinic employees.
5
Schedule a consultation. You should have a consultation before scheduling your procedure to make sure you are comfortable with the facility, that microdermabrasion is safe for you, and to ask the doctor any questions you might have, such as:^{[12]
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Trustworthy Source
American Academy of Dermatology
Professional organization made of over 20,000 certified dermatologists
Go to source}
- Are you certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery or the American Board of Dermatology?
- How many treatments will be needed?
- What are the possible side effects?
- Is the procedure safe for me?
- Do you have any before-and-after photos?
- How much will it cost? Do you have payment plans?

Part 2

Part 2 of 2:

Preparing for Your Appointment

1
Talk to your doctor if you have taken tretinoin for acne in the past 6 months. Tretinoin (Atralin, Refissa, Tretin-X) is used to treat severe acne. Use results in an increased risk of scarring after microdermabrasion treatment. You will need to wait at least six months after your last usage before undergoing microdermabrasion.^{[13]
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Trustworthy Source
American Academy of Dermatology
Professional organization made of over 20,000 certified dermatologists
Go to source}
2
Using any topical solutions that your doctor recommends as part of your microdermabrasion treatment. Some physicians ask patients to use a special type of skincare product prior to microdermabrasion to ensure the surface of the dermis is in top condition at the time of the treatment. These solutions are often available through the doctor's office where the procedure is performed. If not, be sure to fill your prescription early so that you can start using the solution on time.
3
Avoid facial treatments in the week before your appointment. Because microdermabrasion works by peeling away a layer of skin, any treatments that leave your skin more sensitive can lead to discomfort or other complications. Be sure to discuss any treatments you may have recently had with your doctor.^{[14]
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Research source} Treatments to avoid include:
- Facials
- Waxing
- Tweezing
- Electrolysis
- Laser treatments
- Injections of collagen or BOTOX
- Chemical peels
4
Stay out of the sun. Sun can damage your skin and make it more sensitive, so you’ll want to avoid sun exposure as much as possible, especially in the week before your treatment.^{[15]
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Research source} Even when not preparing for microdermabrasion, you should always apply sunscreen when going outside for more than a few minutes, even on overcast days.
5
Kick the smoking habit as preparation for microdermabrasion. You want your skin as healthy as possible before the treatment, and cigarette smoke inhibits blood circulation in the skin. You’ll want to stop smoking for at least the week before your procedure, and for better, long-lasting results and healthy skin (not to mention a reduced risk of cancer), you should stop smoking altogether.^{[16]
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Research source}
6
Stop taking NSAIDs at least one week before the procedure. If the drugs are over the counter, simply stop. If they are prescribed, consult your doctor first. These anti-inflammatories increase the risk of bleeding or facial rashes as a result of the procedure.^{[17]
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Research source} NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatories) include:
- Aspirin
- Ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil)
- Naproxen (Aleve)
- Celecoxib (Celebrex)
- Diclofenac (Cambia, Cataflam, Voltaren-XR, Zipsor, Zorvolex)
- Mefenamic acid (Ponstel)
- Indomethacin (Indocin)
- Oxaprozin (Daypro)
- And the following: aceclofenac, etodolac, etoricoxib, fenoprofen, flurbiprofen, ketoprofen, ketorolac, meclofenamate, meloxicam, nabumetone, piroxicam, sulindac, and tolmetin.
7
Discontinue use of exfoliating creams and topical acne medications three days prior to your appointment. Most topical medications use acids to peel away outer layers of skin. They will leave your skin more sensitive, leading to potential discomfort.^{[18]
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Research source} Discuss any products you are using with your doctor before microdermabrasion. Do not use:
- Alpha hydroxy acid products containing glycolic or lactic acid
- Salicylic acid products
- Retinoids (Retin A, Renova, Differin, Tazorac)
- Benzoyl peroxide
8
Talk to your doctor if you have a history of cold sores or fever blisters. Microdermabrasion can occasionally lead to a reoccurrence. To avoid this your doctor can prescribe antiviral medication to take before your treatment.^{[19]
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Trustworthy Source
PubMed Central
Journal archive from the U.S. National Institutes of Health
Go to source}
9
Clean your face before your appointment. Instead of soap, use a syndet bar (a cleaner that uses a synthetic detergent) or a lipid-free cleaner to clean your face and neck.^{[20]
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Research source} These cleaners help to preserve moisture in your face much better than soap. Look for cleaners that contain glycerin, cetyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol, sodium laurel, or sulfate.^{[21]
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Trustworthy Source
PubMed Central
Journal archive from the U.S. National Institutes of Health
Go to source}
10
Reschedule your appointment in the event of a sudden breakout of acne, a boil or any other rash on the face the day before your treatment. To avoid possible adverse effects, you want your skin to be as healthy as possible going into the treatment.

Expert Q&A
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Question

Can I sun bathe on holiday following a microdermabrasion treatment?

Luba Lee, FNP-BC, MS
Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner
Luba Lee, FNP-BC is a Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and educator in Tennessee with over a decade of clinical experience. Luba has certifications in Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), Emergency Medicine, Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), Team Building, and Critical Care Nursing. She received her Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) from the University of Tennessee in 2006.

Luba Lee, FNP-BC, MS

Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner

Expert Answer

Support wikiHow by unlocking this expert answer.

No, it is best to avoid sunbathing after microdermabrasion treatment. It is recommended to avoid the direct sunlight immediately after and apply sun-block if headed outside.