Buy now, pay later — Affirm · Afterpay · Klarna
Complexion Co. monogram Complexion Co. Book Now

Learn

Microdermabrasion

Resurface • Smooth • Refine

The basics

What Is It?

Microdermabrasion is a professional form of physical exfoliation used to remove built-up dead cells from the outermost surface of the skin.

It allows us to create controlled resurfacing without using a chemical exfoliant.

The technique

How Does It Work?

A professional handpiece passes across the skin while providing controlled exfoliation and suction.

This removes superficial buildup and leaves the skin’s surface feeling smoother and more refined.

The intensity and number of passes can be adjusted depending on your skin and the treatment area.

The experience

What Does It Feel Like?

Think gentle polishing + light suction.

You may feel:

  • A slightly rough polishing sensation
  • Gentle suction
  • Mild warmth afterward

It shouldn’t feel like your skin is being aggressively scraped.

Concerns

What Can It Target?

Microdermabrasion may be appropriate for:

  • Dullness
  • Rough texture
  • Surface buildup
  • Uneven-looking texture
  • Certain types of congestion
  • Dry or flaky surface buildup
  • General skin resurfacing

Where we use it

Face + Body Uses

Microdermabrasion can be incorporated into both facial and selected body treatments.

Depending on the concern, it may be used on areas such as the:

  • Face
  • Neck and décolleté
  • Back
  • Arms
  • Other appropriate body areas experiencing roughness or buildup

Our approach

How We Use It at Complexion Co. Skin Studio

Microdermabrasion is one of several exfoliation methods available to us.

We may choose it when your skin would benefit from physical resurfacing rather than—or sometimes strategically alongside—another form of exfoliation.

We consider your skin barrier, sensitivity, current products, recent treatments, and treatment goals before deciding how much exfoliation your skin needs.

Stronger exfoliation isn’t automatically better exfoliation.

Candidacy

Who May Not Be a Candidate?

Microdermabrasion may need to be avoided or modified for clients experiencing certain conditions, including:

  • Active inflammatory acne in the treatment area
  • Open or broken skin
  • Active infection
  • Significant irritation or sunburn
  • Highly compromised skin barrier
  • Certain inflammatory skin conditions
  • Recent resurfacing procedures
  • Use of certain medications or prescription topical products

We’ll evaluate your skin before treatment.

Afterward

What to Expect Afterward

Many clients notice that their skin immediately feels smoother and softer.

Temporary effects may include:

  • Mild redness
  • Slight tightness
  • Temporary sensitivity
  • Mild dryness

Your skin may also be temporarily more sensitive to other products and sun exposure, making proper aftercare and SPF especially important.

Frequency

How Often Is It Used?

Microdermabrasion may be used as an occasional resurfacing treatment or incorporated into a progressive treatment plan.

How frequently we use it depends on your skin, treatment goals, and the other exfoliation methods being performed.

Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Does it hurt?

It shouldn’t. Most clients describe it as a slightly scratchy polishing sensation with suction.

Will my skin peel afterward?

Typically not. You may experience mild dryness or flaking depending on your skin and complete treatment.

Is it the same as a chemical peel?

No. Microdermabrasion physically exfoliates the surface. Chemical peels use acids or other exfoliating agents to create controlled chemical exfoliation.

Can it help texture?

It can be an excellent option for certain types of superficial roughness and buildup.

Do I need to request it?

No. We’ll determine whether physical exfoliation is appropriate during your skin assessment.

Packages

Looking for More Than One Treatment?

If you’re working toward longer-term improvement in texture, dullness, congestion, or uneven-looking skin, microdermabrasion may be incorporated into a corrective treatment package when appropriate.

Book with us

Ready to Book?

Book your face or body treatment and we’ll determine whether microdermabrasion is the right exfoliation method for your skin.

Have Questions Before Booking?

Have sensitive skin, use retinoids or prescription skincare, or recently received another resurfacing treatment?

Contact us or schedule a consultation so we can determine the appropriate place to start.

← All Learn Guides

Book an Appointment
Book an Appointment