Microdermabrasion: Benefits, Side Effects, Results and Recovery
Updated: 6 days ago
Written and medically reviewed by Dr. Baraa Alnahhal, MD · Last reviewed: October 2026 · How we review
Quick Answer: What is microdermabrasion?
Microdermabrasion is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure that gently exfoliates the uppermost layer of skin using tiny crystals or a diamond-tipped wand. It can make fine lines, age spots, enlarged pores, mild acne scars, stretch marks and sun damage less noticeable. Sessions take about 30–40 minutes, need no numbing, and most people need several treatments. [1]
What the research says
Skin texture and tone improved within a short series of sessions. In a clinical study of 16 women treated once a week for six weeks, fine wrinkles, dullness, pigmentation and large pores improved significantly by the third session, with further gains by the sixth and no significant safety or tolerance problems. (Spencer et al., Dermatologic Surgery, 2006) [3]
In a head-to-head test, most patients preferred a mild chemical peel. In a randomized split-face trial of 10 patients given six weekly treatments, 7 preferred a 20% glycolic acid peel, 1 preferred microdermabrasion and 2 had no favorite; investigator ratings showed no clear difference between the two, and neither caused serious side effects. (Alam et al., Dermatologic Surgery, 2002) [4]
For stretch marks, microdermabrasion alone was the least effective option tested. In a randomized trial of 68 patients, platelet-rich plasma injections, alone or combined with microdermabrasion, improved stretch marks significantly more than microdermabrasion alone, and all three approaches were well tolerated. (Ibrahim et al., Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2015) [5]
Key takeaways
Microdermabrasion removes only the top layer of skin, so it suits mild, surface-level concerns rather than deep scars or wrinkles. [1][6]
A session lasts about 30–40 minutes, needs no anesthetic, and you can go home right away. [1]
Most people need one to four treatments a month, then monthly sessions to maintain results. [1]
Microdermabrasion has no serious risks; possible side effects include redness, dryness, flaking, bruising and more sun sensitivity. [1]
People with active acne, eczema, psoriasis, frequent cold sores or changing moles should talk to a provider first. [1]
Microdermabrasion at a glance
Feature | What to expect |
Type of procedure | Minimally invasive, physical exfoliation |
Areas treated | Face, neck, back, hands or chest |
Session length | About 30–40 minutes |
Numbing needed | No |
Downtime | None; mild redness or sensitivity for up to 24 hours |
Typical schedule | 1–4 treatments a month, then monthly maintenance |
Who performs it | Dermatologist, plastic surgeon or licensed aesthetician |
Sources: [1]
What is microdermabrasion?
Microdermabrasion is a cosmetic skin procedure in which a provider uses a special instrument to gently sand away the uppermost layer of your skin. It can be done on the face, neck, back, hands or chest. [1]
Removing that worn outer layer does three things:
Microdermabrasion is very common. It regularly ranks among the five most popular nonsurgical cosmetic procedures. [1]
How does microdermabrasion work?
Microdermabrasion works by physically loosening dead and damaged cells from the skin's surface and vacuuming them away in the same step. Your provider uses one of two techniques. [1]
Both techniques remove only the uppermost layer of skin and vacuum the debris away.
Technique | How it works | A simple comparison |
Crystal microdermabrasion | Tiny crystals are sprayed through a tube to knock off dead cells; the same tube vacuums up the crystals and debris | Like a very gentle sandblaster |
Diamond microdermabrasion | A diamond-tipped wand buffs off the top layer and vacuums up the debris | Like a very gentle electric sander |
Unlike deeper resurfacing, microdermabrasion only removes the uppermost part of the epidermis. It speeds up the skin's natural shedding process rather than wounding the deeper layers. [6]
What skin concerns can microdermabrasion improve?
Microdermabrasion can make several mild, surface-level skin concerns less noticeable and leave skin feeling smoother. [1]
Concern | What microdermabrasion can do | Related guide |
Age spots | Soften the look of flat, sun-related dark spots | |
Enlarged pores and blackheads | Clear surface buildup so pores look smaller | |
Fine lines and wrinkles | Smooth fine surface lines | |
Mild scars, especially from acne | Make shallow scars less visible | |
Discoloration and uneven tone | Even out patchy skin color | — |
Stretch marks | Lessen their appearance | |
Sun damage | Improve rough, dull, sun-exposed skin |
Set realistic expectations for scars and stretch marks. Reviews of acne scar treatments rate the evidence for microdermabrasion as weaker than for lasers, chemical peels and microneedling. [7] For stretch marks, one randomized trial found microdermabrasion alone less effective than platelet-rich plasma. [5]
For more on safe ways to fade dark spots, see the American Academy of Dermatology's guide to age spots and dark marks.
Who should avoid microdermabrasion or talk to a provider first?
People with active skin conditions or changing skin growths should talk to a healthcare provider before having microdermabrasion. Check first if you have: [1]
Acne, or you take medication for acne
Frequent skin rashes such as contact dermatitis
Frequent cold sores
Moles, freckles, skin tags or other growths that change size or shape, or that bleed
If you have very sensitive skin or a chronic skin condition, a dermatologist can tell you whether microdermabrasion is safe for you or whether another option fits better. [1]
What happens during a microdermabrasion appointment?
A microdermabrasion appointment starts with a consultation and ends with you going home the same day. [1]
What to expect from your first consultation to keeping your results.
Before the procedure
A dermatologist, plastic surgeon or licensed cosmetologist or aesthetician can perform microdermabrasion. They will review your health history and your goals, and they may take "before" photos of the area. [1]
This is the time to ask:
Are there any risks for me?
How many treatments will I need?
What results can I realistically expect?
Will my skin be red or very sensitive afterward? [1]
During the procedure
You don't need a topical or local anesthetic. Microdermabrasion usually isn't painful, but you may feel scratching, stinging, suction or vibration on your skin. Treatment usually lasts about 30 to 40 minutes. [1]
What are the side effects and risks of microdermabrasion?
Microdermabrasion is a safe cosmetic procedure without serious risks, but some people notice short-term side effects. [1]
Side effect | What to know |
May last a few days after treatment | |
Discoloration | Treated skin may look discolored or darker |
Dryness and flaking | Common as the skin renews |
Sun sensitivity | Treated skin burns more easily, so wear sunscreen every day |
Need for repeat sessions | Most people need several treatments to see their full result |
Sources: [1]
What is recovery like after microdermabrasion?
Recovery after microdermabrasion is quick: you can go home right after the procedure and return to your day. [1]
Your skin may be a little red, swollen or sensitive for up to 24 hours. Your provider may give you a cream to calm the irritation. [1] Because treated skin is more sensitive to sunlight, apply sunscreen every day. [1]
How many microdermabrasion sessions do you need, and how long do results last?
Most people need between one and four microdermabrasion treatments each month to reach their goal, followed by monthly sessions to maintain the results. [1]
Your skin will feel softer and smoother after the first session, but results build gradually and vary from person to person. Your provider will check how well your skin heals after the first treatment before deciding when you can have the next one. [1]
Microdermabrasion improves how your skin looks, but it does not stop skin cells from aging. Once you reach the result you want, ask your provider how often to repeat treatment to keep it. [1]
How does microdermabrasion compare with a chemical peel and dermabrasion?
Microdermabrasion is the gentlest of the three: it physically rubs off only the top layer of skin, while a chemical peel exfoliates more deeply with chemicals and dermabrasion goes deeper still. [1][6]
How deep each treatment reaches into the skin.
Microdermabrasion | Chemical peel | Dermabrasion | |
How it works | Physical exfoliation with crystals or a diamond tip | Chemical solution exfoliates the skin | Aggressive mechanical sanding |
Depth | Uppermost layer only | Deeper than microdermabrasion | Through the epidermis into the dermis |
Bleeding | No | Depends on peel depth | Yes |
Recovery | Minimal | Varies with peel depth | Longer than microdermabrasion |
Best suited to | Dull skin, fine lines, mild scars and spots | Brightening and exfoliating skin | Deep scars and wrinkles; some precancerous growths |
In the one randomized split-face trial comparing them directly, most patients preferred a mild glycolic acid peel to low-intensity microdermabrasion, although investigators saw no clear difference in results. [4] Learn more in our guides to chemical peels and dermabrasion.
When should you call a doctor after microdermabrasion?
Call your healthcare provider if the treated area is bleeding, blistered, or swollen for longer than a day or two after microdermabrasion. [1]
What should you ask your provider before microdermabrasion?
The right questions help you decide whether microdermabrasion fits your skin and goals. Consider asking: [1]
Am I a good candidate for microdermabrasion?
Can I try an at-home microdermabrasion kit?
Does microdermabrasion work better on light or dark skin?
Would another treatment, such as a chemical peel or microneedling, work better for me?
You can also read the American Society of Plastic Surgeons' patient guide to microdermabrasion before your appointment.
Conclusion
Microdermabrasion is a quick, low-downtime way to exfoliate dead and damaged skin and reveal a smoother, brighter surface. It works best for mild concerns such as fine lines, age spots, enlarged pores and light scars, and results build over several sessions. Side effects are usually mild, but daily sunscreen is essential afterward. Aging is a natural process, and treatment is a personal choice, not a requirement. If you have sensitive skin, a chronic skin condition or a changing mole, speak with a dermatologist before booking.
Thinking about your next step? Explore our acne scars guide and chemical peels guide to compare your options, then bring your questions to a board-certified dermatologist to build a plan that suits your skin.
FAQ
Is microdermabrasion painful?
Microdermabrasion usually isn't painful and doesn't require numbing cream or local anesthetic. You may feel a scratching, stinging, suction or vibrating sensation during the session. [1]
How long does a microdermabrasion session take?
A microdermabrasion session usually takes about 30 to 40 minutes, and you can go home right afterward. Mild redness or sensitivity may last up to 24 hours. [1]
How many microdermabrasion treatments will I need?
Most people need one to four microdermabrasion treatments a month to reach their goal, because results build over time. Monthly sessions afterward can help maintain the results. [1]
Is microdermabrasion safe?
Microdermabrasion is a safe cosmetic procedure without serious risks. Possible side effects include bruising for a few days, dry or flaky skin, discoloration and increased sun sensitivity. [1]
Can microdermabrasion get rid of acne scars?
Microdermabrasion can make mild scars, especially acne scars, less noticeable, but it removes only the top layer of skin and is not designed for deep scars. Evidence for atrophic acne scars is weaker than for lasers, chemical peels and microneedling. [1][7]
Is microdermabrasion better than a chemical peel?
Microdermabrasion isn't better or worse than a chemical peel; the two work differently. Microdermabrasion physically rubs off the top layer of skin, while a chemical peel uses chemicals to exfoliate more deeply. [1]
What is the difference between microdermabrasion and dermabrasion?
Dermabrasion is more aggressive than microdermabrasion and is used for deeper scars and wrinkles. Dermabrasion causes bleeding and needs more recovery time, while microdermabrasion does not cause bleeding. [1]
Who should not get microdermabrasion?
People with acne or on acne medication, frequent rashes or cold sores, eczema, psoriasis, or moles and growths that change or bleed should talk to a provider before microdermabrasion. [1]
How long do microdermabrasion results last?
Microdermabrasion results are temporary because skin keeps renewing itself. Many people schedule maintenance sessions to keep their results, and your provider can suggest a schedule.
Do I need sunscreen after microdermabrasion?
Yes. Your skin is more sensitive to the sun after microdermabrasion. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen every day and avoid tanning while your skin heals.
Related Reading
Dermalinfusion (DiamondGlow Facial): Benefits and Results explains dermalinfusion (DiamondGlow).
CO2 Laser Resurfacing: Uses, Procedure, Recovery and Risks explains CO2 laser resurfacing for skin.
References
Cleveland Clinic. Microdermabrasion: What It Is, Benefits, Results & Side Effects. Cleveland Clinic. Last updated July 12, 2023. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/25124-microdermabrasion
American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Microdermabrasion. American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Accessed October 31, 2026. https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/microdermabrasion
Spencer JM, Kurtz ES. Approaches to document the efficacy and safety of microdermabrasion procedure. Dermatol Surg. 2006;32(11):1353-1357. PMID 17083587. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1524-4725.2006.32305.x
Alam M, Omura NE, Dover JS, et al. Glycolic acid peels compared to microdermabrasion: a right-left controlled trial of efficacy and patient satisfaction. Dermatol Surg. 2002;28(6):475-479. PMID 12081674. https://doi.org/10.1046/j.1524-4725.2002.01144.x
Ibrahim ZA, El-Tatawy RA, El-Samongy MA, et al. Comparison between the efficacy and safety of platelet-rich plasma vs. microdermabrasion in the treatment of striae distensae: clinical and histopathological study. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2015;14(4):336-346. PMID 26147455. https://doi.org/10.1111/jocd.12160
Alkhawam L, Alam M. Dermabrasion and microdermabrasion. Facial Plast Surg. 2009;25(5):301-310. PMID 20024871. https://doi.org/10.1055/s-0029-1243078
Kim EY, Wong JH, Hussain A, et al. Evidence-based management of cutaneous scarring in dermatology part 2: atrophic acne scarring. Arch Dermatol Res. 2024;316(1):19. PMID 38059974. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00403-023-02737-9
Disclaimer
This article is for general educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always ask a qualified healthcare provider about any skin concern or cosmetic procedure. If treated skin bleeds, blisters or stays swollen for more than a day or two, contact your provider.
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