Is At-Home Microdermabrasion Gonna Ruin My Face?

K, so as much as I love and trust my gentle, nice little skincare routine, I sometimes wish I could just scrub away all my blackheads and shrink my pores overnight instead. But since that's literally impossible (seriously, don't try—you'll just destroy your face), I've been considering a more realistic alternative: microdermabrasion, an in-office or at-home treatment that deeply exfoliates your skin to leave your face softer and brighter over time. And if you're currently in the same semi-confused boat as I was, I've got you covered because I found out everything there is to know about the treatment below, along with the best at-home microdermabrasion devices and products to try on your own. But first, let's consult a pro...

Meet the expert:

• Morgan Rabach: MD, dermatologist, and co-founder of LM Medical in NYC, Dr. Rabach specializes in cosmetic dermatology and the elimination of acne scars.

What is microdermabrasion?

"Microdermabrasion is an exfoliating treatment that takes off the outer layers of dead skin to improve your skin's texture, pore size, and pigmentation," says Rabach. "It's also a great option for people who already have healthy skin but are looking to fade their sun damage."

The in-office microdermabrasion tools your dermatologist might use can differ, but the treatment is generally performed with a handheld exfoliator that either blasts your skin with super-fine crystal particles or buffs it with a diamond-coated tip. The result? Smoother, brighter, and more even-looking skin.

Is microdermabrasion good for your skin?

Yes and no, depending on your skin type. I know the treatment sounds a little intense, but microdermabrasion is usually safe and well-tolerated by most skin types—that is, unless you've got ultra-sensitive skin, active acne breakouts, or conditions like eczema, rosacea, or keratosis pilaris, says Dr. Rabach. I know; I'm sorry. Even though scrubbing off your skin may seem like a "logical" fix for zits, flakes, and bumps, it'll only make these inflammatory skin conditions much worse, so please don't try it.

Does at-home microdermabrasion work?

Here's the thing: At-home microdermabrasion is never going to be quite as effective as an in-office treatment—sorry, but derms have access to ultra-powerful devices (plus a lifetime of skilled training) that you just can't replicate over the counter. BUT! That doesn't mean you don't have effective options, though, since there are a number of devices and skincare products that'll help you achieve similar results at home.

The only caveat? You need to make sure you're suuuper careful when trying microdermabrasion on yourself—follow your directions to a T and don't overdo it. "Using an at-home microdermabrasion device too often may take off too many outer layers of skin, leaving skin burned and raw," warns Dr. Rabach, "all of which can lead to hyperpigmentation and scarring." So, you know, not good, but also fully avoidable if you actually listen to your skin and follow directions.

Our picks of the best at-home microdermabrasion tools in 2022:

• Best on Amazon: Microderm Glo Mini Diamond Microdermabrasion and Suction Tool
• Best for clogged pores: Spa Sciences Mio Diamond Microdermabrasion Resurfacing System
• Best for sensitive skin: Foreo Luna 3 for Sensitive Skin
• Best for beginners: Trophy Skin MicrodermMD Sensitive
• Best drugstore: Neutrogena Microdermabrasion System

With all this in mind and a sneak peek of the content ahead, keep reading for what you really came here for: the entire list of the best at-home microdermabrasion tools and products ahead.