Aluminum oxide crystals have been the most commonly used agent in microdermabrasion treatments for years. A wand is used in this type of treatment to abrade the skin, and a vacuum is then used to remove the dead skin cells, dirt, and used crystals.
It is important to note that there are a few different agents used in various treatments, including diamonds, aluminum oxide, and baking soda crystals. Aluminum oxide microdermabrasion is more effective than sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) treatments because aluminum oxide crystals are harder and are able to penetrate more deeply into the skin. Diamonds are stronger than crystals, therefore people with severe skin conditions can benefit by using diamond peel microdermabrasion. However, crystal treatments work fine for most mild cases of acne and other skin problems.
A special hand held tool containing the agent is used on the skin in order to draw the impurities out. These devices have been used in the microdermabrasion industry for the last three decades.
An increasing number of people are using this type of treatment for many reasons. Not only is it helpful, it is also safe. It is not a drug and no harmful chemicals are used. Users do not have to worry about harmful side effects such as allergies or inflammation. Nevertheless, aluminum oxide microdermabrasion is not perfect, and there are a few problems that can arise. Sometimes the crystals themselves are not the cause of the problem so much as the device. A defective device might leave stray crystals behind, which can cause problems. Users need to make sure that no crystals are left behind after the treatment.
A home microdermabrasion peel kit using aluminum oxide crystals can remove an average of 25 microns from the surface. Since the market is growing, more companies are now working on improved kits in order to stay ahead of the competition.
The cost of a large bag of aluminum oxide crystals is around $75. While the device itself can last a long time, new crystals need to be reordered on a regular basis.
As mentioned above, there are a few disadvantages of aluminum oxide microdermabrasion. In addition to regularly buying more crystals, users with sensitive skin might experience irritation and itchiness. In such a case, sodium bicarbonate needs to be used since it is a softer agent. In cases where aluminum oxide is not enough, diamond tips should be used. It all depends on the individual patient’s skin type and severity of the problem.