Microdermabrasion–known as microderm for short–is a series of procedures in which dead surface skin is removed, partly or fully, by light abrasion. And cosmetic makers have produced several kits for home use, which means you do not have to pay for costly spa sittings and you may spend less time in the dermatologist’s office.
The best at-home microdermabrasion kits serve specific purposes. They fall into four categories: complexion, pores, skin tone, and skin surface. You should know your skin type and your exact need before you buy an at-home microderm kit, and you should beware of particular skin sensitivies or skin allergies.
Complexion kits ($20-$75, normally) are considered the least effective because, while they apply to dull, blotched skin and improve the overall appearance, they are little more than a good facial and are believed to have little in common with actual microdermabrasion. Some brands of complexion kits include L’Oreal Refinish, Olay Regenerist Peel, Clinique, Epidermx II, and Dr. Brandt.
Pores kits ($45-$85) attack clogged pores, blackheads, whiteheads, and enlarged pores, and are considered somewhat better than complexion kits because they are easier to peel. Some brands of pore kits include Microdelivery Peel, Estee Lauder, Lancome Resurface C, and Mary Kay.
Skin tone kits ($14-$75) have a better peeling effect and are usually used to attack hyperpigmentation, irregular skin tone, age spots, and sun spots. Some brands include Neutrogena, Ponds, Microdermx, and Micro Pearl Abrasion.
Skin surface kits ($40-$130) are thought to be the nearest you can come to a professional procedure with an at-home microderm kit. These can help you fade superficial scars (acne, for example), fine lines and wrinkles, and skin bumps. Brands include Youthful Essence, Dermanew, Dermapower, and Visage Naturel.
Most of the companies mentioned have at-home microderm kits for the face and perhaps the neck, but very few (Neutrogena and Dermanew are two) have full-body at-home microderm kits. In fact, some product reviewers caution against the misleading character of the term, “body microdermabrasion”–you can use it from the neck down but not over your face, where their particularised formulae can cause skin damage on your face. Facial microabrasion has the opposite effect: because it is less aggressive, they will have little to no untoward effect on your arms, chest, or back.
Be sure to follow the instructions carefully. Some at-home microderms you can apply with your bare hands, others require or at least recommend a soft cloth or sponge. Dermanew and Youthful Essence kits come with somewhat advanced tools, while other kits that seem mere scrubs often get surprising results according to several reviewers.