Warding off the signs of aging is easier with a consistent skincare regiment; regular  exfoliation, daily cleansing and toning, along with the occasional skin rejuvenation treatment can keep skin looking its best. Microdermabrasion is just one facial rejuvenation procedure that can help decrease fine lines and wrinkles and also boosts collagen to create a more youthful look. However, with an average cost of $120 - $150 per session, the costs of your antiaging regiment can quickly add up.

Home microdermabrasion kits offer an alternative, more budget-friendly solution to keep up with your skin regiment. Is a home microdermabrasion kit the best solution for your lifestyle? Consider these benefits and drawbacks of the latest over-the-counter skin solution:  

Key Benefits of Home Microdermabrasion Kits  

Since it’s up to you (or a friend) to perform the treatment sequence, learning what to expect at each stage can help keep your skincare regiment on track.  Many home microdermabrasion kits such as Microdermx, Dermanew and Epidermix II include a step-by-step guide that helps you prepare for the effects of the treatment at each stage of skin renewal. 

Key benefits of home microdermabrasion kits include:  

Lower price ranges – common brands such as Neutrogena, Olay Regenerist and L’Oreal Refinish cost between $25 - $60 per kit, while brands at the beauty counter such as Youthful Essence and Clinique may be as much as $120.

Quick and simple treatment plan – home microdermabrasion treatments are designed with potent topical formulas at each stage of the process, but rarely take longer than an hour for the entire application.

Powerful resurfacing tools – home microdermabrasion kits that contain resurfacing tools (not sponges or washcloths) offer the most long-term benefits because they can effectively ‘scrub’ away dead skin cells and smooth out the skin’s surface instantly. 

Deep pore cleansing – if you don’t select a high-end home microdermabrasion kit, you can still benefit from a deep exfoliation and pore cleansing.  In some cases, this can be the equivalent of a facial treatment at a spa. Fading of superficial scars and blemishes – home microdermabrasion kits can help resurface the skin to leave it clear of blemishes and scars. 

Achieving completely clear and smooth skin may require multiple treatments, but most people will notice a visible difference within a few weeks.  

Drawbacks of Home Microdermabrasion Kits  

While home microdermabrasion kits offer several benefits for aging or discolored skin, most are not as powerful as a professional treatment at a spa or cosmetic surgeon’s office. Other drawbacks of using home microdermabrasion kits include:  

Potential for skin irritation – each kit comes with its own set of lotions, creams and serums to promote the exfoliation and healing process.  Sensitive skin types may experience redness, excessive dryness or discomfort with some of these products.

Refill costs – home microdermabrasion kits made with sponge applicators and removable treatment heads may require refills on a regular basis. In some cases, the extra costs to sustain results can add up to the cost of a professional treatment.

Potential for more breakouts – home microdermabrasion kits made with aluminum oxide crystals are designed for deep exfoliation. Unfortunately, some people may experience excessive dryness, clogged pores and more breakouts from the abrasive treatment.  

Bottom Line: Maintaining a healthy skin routine is just one wrinkle-fighting strategy that can help you hold onto those days of youth. Home microdermabrasion kits may be a valuable treatment between treatments at the cosmetic surgeon’s office, and can help you maintain the results of a professional treatment for an extended period of time. An at-home session is convenient and lower in cost, but you won’t be able to achieve dramatic results without the microdermabrasion machines found at the medspa or cosmetic surgeon’s office.  

Learn more about microdermabrasion and skin rejuvenation in our information guide, or consult with a cosmetic surgeon in your area to find out how microdermabrasion can help you steer clear of wrinkles, fine lines and other signs of aging.