These At-Home Microdermabrasion Kits Will Give You That Post-Facial Glow
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These At-Home Microdermabrasion Kits Will Give You That Post-Facial Glow
Microdermabrasion is a popular skincare procedure that exfoliates and removes the superficial layer of dry, dead skin cells to yield smooth, bright, glowing skin, says Dr. Michele Green, a cosmetic dermatologist in NYC. And best of all, it involves no discomfort, downtime, or recovery. The downside? It can be a pricey procedure.
Here's a bit of good news, though: You don't have to pay a premium for the professionals to do it—there are a number of at-home microdermabrasion machines, kits, and products that compare to the in-office treatments the rich and famous treat themselves to. While there's nothing quite like the results you'll see from stronger in-office visits like Fraxel, Thermage, Velashape and Clear and Brilliant, says Green, at-home devices have come a long way.
"Dermabrasion kits developed for at-home use often include an exfoliating scrub that contains some sort of abrasive material much like in-office machines use crystals," says Dr. Stacy Chimento, a board-certified dermatologist in Miami. "These home kits are, at their core, facial scrubs that remove dead skin paired with a device equipped for mild suction."
Though not quite as powerful as professional treatments, it's imperative that you exercise caution when using at-home microdermabrasion kits. Always follow directions for use carefully and use the devices sparingly (max once per week), says Dr. Shari Sperling, a board-certified dermatologist in New Jersey. "Microdermabrasion, if done incorrectly, can cause tears and abrasions to the skin. Additionally, the crystals can get into the eyes and cause cornea abrasion," says Green. And if you have extremely sensitive skin or a skin condition like rosacea, Green suggests leaving the work to a board-certified dermatologist.
If you think you're ready to give one of the machines or potent scrubs a try, dermatologists say these microdermabrasion products are the safest, most effective on the market today.
Hearst Owned - 2/11
Microdermabrasion System
Neutrogena
ulta.com
$26.99
A winning drugstore pick that provides gentle exfoliation to help clear and shrink pores. "If you are acne-prone, this is one of the best tools you can get for at-home use," says Green.
Ulta - 3/11
Personal Microderm With Hand and Foot Kit
PMD
sephora.com
$159.00
This device is great for beginners, since it provides the user with clear and very detailed step-by-step instructions, says Green. It's worth noting that nearly every dermatologist we spoke to recommended this machine for its ability to leave skin glowing.
Sephorao - 4/11
ReVit Microderm Device
Silk'n
macys.com
$62.00
"The most important thing to look for with these kits is the vacuum aspect of the system to ensure that there are elements of both exfoliation and suction," says Dr. Erum Ilyas, a board-certified dermatologist in Philadelphia. This ensures you'll adequately remove all those dead skin cells from the surface—your ticket to smoother, brighter skin. Though moderately priced, this one is very effective, she says.
Macy's - 5/11
Micro-Exfoliating Scrub
SkinCeuticals
SkinCeuticals
$31.00
If you're not comfortable wielding a machine, Dr. Diane Madfes, a board-certified dermatologist in NYC, says some of the more potent scrubs can also provide benefits of microderm exfoliation. This one, which contains silica to cleanse pores and soften skin, is suitable for all skin types and can be used with a wash cloth or mechanical brush for added exfoliating power, she says.
DermStore - 6/11
Sonic Refresher Wet/Dry Microdermabrasion System
Michael Todd Beauty
ulta.com
$99.00
This at-home tool, recommended by Ilyas, features three separate diamond tips, so you can alter your treatment based on your skin type. It also gently mists skin to rehydrate a parched complexion, leaving a nice, dewy glow in its wake.
Ulta - 7/11
Diamond Microdermabrasion Machine and Suction Tool
Microderm GLO
amazon.com
$199.99
To treat skin concerns like fine lines, wrinkles, or blemishes, try this easy-to-use tool, says Lesley Reynolds, co-founder of the Harley Street Skin Clinic. Though lightweight and compact, it delivers professional-grade performance that clears pores and leaves skin softer and smoother, she says.
Amazon - 8/11
Microdermabrasion Body
Dr. Brandt Skincare
sephora.com
$44.00
This body exfoliator contains the same professional-grade crystals that many of the machines have on the tip of their wands for physical exfoliation, says Peterson Pierre, a board-certified dermatologist at the Pierre Skin Care Institute in Los Angeles. It also features lactic acid for a gentle chemical exfoliation, as well as jojoba oil to moisturize, chamomile to soothe, and aloe vera to quell inflammation.
Sephora - 9/11
Pro Polish Micro- Dermabrasion Device
Lancer Skincare
qvc.com
$99.00
A diamond-encrusted exfoliating tip combined with powerful vacuum suctioning and a 180-degree swivel head makes this tool a highly effective one, says Ilyas. Just take note—because the suction is so powerful, some reviewers find it too aggressive for their skin.
QVC - 10/11
MicrodermMD
Trophy Skin
lovelyskin.com
$299.00
Though the priciest option, nearly ever dermatologist we spoke to touted this as a safe, reliable at-home microdermabrasion machine. "It's the closest thing to an in-office treatment," says Pierre. It comes with a diamond tip instead of the more standard aluminum oxide crystals and has variable suction that allows you to customize your treatment. It even features a sensitive mode for beginners.
LovelySkin - 11/11
Good Genes All-In-One Lactic Acid Treatment
SUNDAY RILEY
sephora.com
$85.00
Not quite as powerful as a machine, but still effective in removing the top layer of dead skin cells, says Dr. Jacob Steiger, a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon. This enables other skincare products to penetrate the skin 20 times deeper, maximizing their benefits, he explains. For best results, use it at night followed by toner, serums, and moisturizer.
Sephora