Microdermabrasion has long been hailed as a powerful anti aging treatment as it buffs away fine lines and wrinkles from the skin to create a smooth appearance. Microdermabrasion works by clearing out blocked pores and sloughing away the top layer of skin. Some skin experts suggest that microdermabrasion may be a valuable treatment for acne, and can even be used in conjunction with other skincare treatments and solutions. 

If you’re one of the millions of acne sufferers looking for immediate results, microdermabrasion may be a valuable treatment for clearing up acne breakouts, reducing the size of the pores and even triggering healthy skin cell production.

How Microdermabrasion Can Target Acne Problems

Microdermabrasion is a two-part process that helps remove dead skin cells and then triggers the production of collagen – a natural compound that promotes skin elasticity – deep within the skin’s surface.  After the outer layer of dead skin cells is removed with the suction device, an abrasive wand made with fine crystals is applied to the skin to slowly buff away the top layer. The circular motion used to slowly buff away the top layer of skin results in the steady breakdown of existing pimples, cysts and nodules. 

While this light trauma can trigger a mild breakout at first, the skin will calm down within a few hours and take on a smoother appearance. Microdermabrasion can be combined with other skincare treatments such as chemical peels to kill bacteria and prevent future breakouts from deep within the skin’s surface. 

Chemical peels quickly sink into the skin’s layers to literally burn off the cells under the dermal layer; after a few days, these dead skin cells are then pulled up to the skin’s surface and eliminated through the pores. Acne sufferers can benefit from mild to medium chemical peels, and combining these with microdermabrasion can help clear up the skin for the long-term.

Key Benefits of Microdermabrasion for Acne

Pimples, papules and pustules that make up an acne breakout can be difficult to control, and may be indications that the skin cells are not strong or healthy enough to remove dirt and oil from the body naturally. 

Microdermabrasion can help heal existing pores and cells affected by acne by removing the dead skin cells that often cause congestion of the skin. Eliminating the layer of dead skin cells in itself can be a powerful healing treatment for acne, and the result is a healthier, smoother appearance.

Other key benefits of microdermabrasion include:

• Removing existing acne scars
• Toning up and tightening the skin for a more youthful appearance
• Reducing fine lines and wrinkles around the mouth and eyes
• Improving the texture of the skin
• Increasing collagen production deep within the skin’s surface
• Reducing the number of breakouts by making the skin healthier overall

Microdermabrasion is not a cure-all for acne, and some people may need a series of treatments in order to see noticeable results. Since this facial rejuvenation treatment triggers collagen production, it may help improve the rate of cell turnover and keep the skin looking tight, toned, buff and smooth for months after treatment.

Learn more about acne treatments and microdermabrasion in our information guide, or consult with a cosmetic surgeon or dermatologist in your area to find out how this treatment may benefit you.