Microdermabrasion is one of those cosmetic procedures that most people have heard of, but don't really know much about. Even if your skin-obsessed friend swears by it, or you've seen it listed on spa menus, the procedure is still one of those best discussed with a dermatologist.
Allow us to clear up any misconceptions. Microdermabrasion is a procedure that exfoliates and removes the superficial layer of dry, dead skin cells. According to licensed medical aesthetician Maria Barry at Union Square Laser Dermatology, microdermabrasion machines can buff and polish the skin using a stream of fine crystals or a diamond tip. Some systems have suction to vacuum loose skin cells from the face.