Microdermabrasion Guide For Spas
If Clients are asking for treatments that rejuvenate their skin, it may be time to add microdermabrasion to your list of skin care treatments. Microdermabrasion is a non-invasive manual skin exfoliation treatment that is far lower risk than laser resurfacing or chemical peels. Recovery is much faster too. Read on to learn about the benefits of microdermabrasion and why you might consider including it into your spa menu.
What Is Microdermabrasion?
Our skin is made up of the dermis (inner layer) and the epidermis (outer layer). The outer layer of the skin contains our concerns, like wrinkles, dark spots or dull texture. Microdermabrasion exfoliates the outer layer of the skin to reduce these skin issues and give us a brighter-looking complexion.
The two types of microdermabrasion include crystal microdermabrasion and diamond microdermabrasion. As Verywellhealth.com explains, crystal microdermabrasion is when microcrystals are used to remove dead skin cells and rejuvenate the skin. Crystals are shot from a small tube onto the skin and then vacuumed back up. In comparison, diamond microdermabrasion uses a device with a diamond-coated wand to exfoliate before suctioning away dead cells from the surface of the skin.
The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) estimates that the procedure takes 20 minutes for the neck and 30–40 minutes for the face. Some even offer this treatment for the body, so the treatment times can vary. Microdermabrasion is usually performed in a series of six treatments, two to three weeks apart.
Either method of microdermabrasion should improve a Client’s skin so that it is smoother, with fewer acne scars and reduced wrinkles. Let’s dive deeper into the benefits.
Benefits Of Microdermabrasion
This quick and painless resurfacing treatment exfoliates dead skin cells and stimulates blood flow and collagen growth. The increased blood flow carries more oxygen to the skin, creating a youthful-looking complexion. This treatment also helps to fade spots, fine lines and acne scars, with the effects lasting for a month. However, the results depend on the age of the Client and how well their skin reacts to the treatment.
Because microdermabrasion is a non-invasive treatment, there is no down-time needed for recovery. It’s considered very safe for the skin, face and body.
You can offer microdermabrasion to Clients that are concerned with:
- Dark spots
- Melasma
- Scars
- Uneven skin texture
- Dull complexion
- Fine lines
- Stretch marks
Who Should Not Get This Treatment?
Avoid microdermabrasion if the Client has irritated skin, acne or active breakouts. If the Client has had recent invasive procedures or cosmetic injectable treatments, it’s best to avoid this treatment.
How Much Should You Charge For Microdermabrasion?
How much should you charge from microdermabrasion? According to statistics from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the average cost of microdermabrasion is $167 per treatment. Prices should be based on the expertise and qualifications of the person performing the treatment and the type of microdermabrasion procedure performed.
What Is The Process Of A Microdermabrasion Treatment?
Step 1: Consultation
The first step in the process is to have a consultation with your Client to discuss their skin issues, previous skin treatments and the products they are using.
Step 2: Cleaning
The treatment must be performed on clean skin. Even if the Client has said they have cleansed, you can perform a cleanse when they arrive on their face to ensure all the dirt, grime and makeup have been removed properly.
Step 3: Eye Covering
Provide the Client with sunglasses to protect their eyes from bright lights during the process.
Step 4: Perform The Treatment
The microdermabrasion hand-held device will remove the top layer of the skin and get rid of dead skin cells. Work in sections of the entire face, neck or other area being treated. This should help establish a health-looking complexion.
Step 5: Moisturizer
After treatment, the skin can appear red and irradiated. Apply a moisturizer to the Client’s skin to calm and protect the area. You can tailor this to their individual skin type too.
Aftercare Instructions For Clients
- Avoid waxing 48 hours before or seven days following a treatment.
- No laser hair removal/IPL treatments can be performed on the face or treated area.
- After the treatment, do not use sun beds or swim in heavily chlorinated water for at least two weeks.
- After the procedure, refrain from using irritating facial products like alpha hydroxy acids, retinoid products or fragranced creams and lotions.
- Avoid chemical peel treatments a few weeks before and after treatment.
- Common side effects include slight swelling, redness or sunburn-like symptoms that may last a few days.
Aftercare Products
Our Product Support Representatives have recommended some gentle products that you can use before and after microdermabrasion. Suitable for all skin types, you can cleanse the skin with the Stone Crop Gel Wash to wash away impurities from your complexion.
A moisturizer for all skin types is the Arctic Berry Peptide Radiance Cream. This cream has a blend of four antioxidant-rich plants and lingonberry seed oil to help to replenish the skin’s moisture.
If you'd like to apply a soothing mask, the Stone Crop Masque is suitable for all skin types. Stone crop is a hydrating and nourishing ingredient that will even out the look of skin tone and texture.
Note: This article is intended for licensed and certified spa professionals only. Before offering any of these treatments to your Clients, it is the responsibility of all spa professionals to ensure they are trained and certified in the relevant spa treatments, prioritize the safety and well-being of their Clients and adhere to the guidelines outlined by their professional licensing and certification.
Have you incorporated this treatment into your spa? Share your experiences with us in the comments below and join the conversation on social media. You can also find out how to become an Eminence Organics Spa Partner here.
