Does microdermabrasion work?

Microdermabrasion improves appearance by removing the outer layer of skin. The most common form of microdermabrasion exfoliates skin by applying small crystals to the skin and simultaneously vacuuming the crystals and dead skin cells from the area. Less commonly, a diamond-tipped wand is used for exfoliation.

Microdermabrasion, an in-office procedure, generally takes less than 30 minutes and has no recovery time, though skin may be pink and feel sunburned for 24 hours after the procedure. To relieve the feeling of tightness and extend the effects of microdermabrasion, one should moisturize often, use sunscreen and avoid excessive sunlight for a few days after the procedure.