At-Home Microdermabrasion Kits That Make Skin Glow, According to Derms

Try as we might, sometimes our skin wins in the struggle against a healthy complexion. And while we would love to make an in-office appointment to handle our beauty woes, there are times when that isn't possible. Enter at-home beauty treatments. The topic at hand? Microdermabrasion, an easy way to remove surface skin cells, and reveal newer skin underneath. At-home microdermabrasion kits are one of the latest trends to help keep our skin clear and our minds at ease.

"Microdermabrasion temporarily improves skin texture and fine lines by a physical exfoliation and often added suction," says Dr. Rachel Nazarian. "At-home microdermabrasion is a perfect tool that helps keep skin glowing by gently lifting dead, dull skin cells from the outermost skin layer. By removing this layer, microdermabrasion also allows topicals to penetrate more deeply and increase their efficacy," adds dermatologist Dr. Jennifer Herrmann.

We asked Herrmann and Nazarian for their thoughts on microdermabrasion, how the treatment works, and their favorite kits to use.

Keep reading to learn more on doing microdermabrasion at home.

How Microdermabrasion Works

"Home devices typically polish and buff the skin using a stream of fine crystals or a diamond tip, and some systems may also have suction to vacuum loose skin cells from the face—but they penetrate very shallowly in comparison to in-office tools. Plus, some at-home kits have reusable tips, which if not cleaned well can introduce bacteria into the skin" says Herrmann. "In-office tools have more power and can penetrate more deeply, if desired, and their tips are also sterilized to maximize safety."

Nazarian notes that many people do professional grade microdermabrasion one to two times monthly to keep their skin looking glowy and smooth. "The professional version is much more effective, under safer conditions, than home versions, but home versions are a good option to keep professional treatments fresh and extend their results," she says.

Frequency of Microdermabrasion at Home

Herrmann recommends that home-based microdermabrasion, should be done once to twice a week, as it can help topical products better penetrate the skin, while providing a coveted glow. However, she also advises to not get too addicted to that post-kit sheen. "Although the glow that's achieved after removing the outer layer of dead skin cells can be addicting, it's important not to overdo it," Herrmann notes. "Too many weekly uses can leave skin raw, red, and more susceptible to allergens. Remember to use a good moisturizer after treatments, too, to help keep skin protected."

Is Microdermabrasion Suitable for All Skin Types?

According to Nazarian, most skin types "can handle home microdermabrasion or another physically exfoliative device once a week." "It’s important to remember not to be too aggressive with either pressure or vacuum when using these devices. Your skin is an incredibly delicate organ and prone to inflammation if handled too aggressively," she says. "People with rosacea and active acne should avoid anything that increases inflammation and can increase risk of scarring."

As for potential risks, aggressive settings and high vacuum suction can cause small blood vessels to break, which can cause delicate facial tissue to tear. "The outermost layer of skin is being targeted by microdermabrasion, which makes it a potential treatment for even sensitive skin (when done properly), but also makes it a very subtle treatment," says Nazarian. "Many people need multiple treatments to appreciate results, and results are always temporary."

Best At-Home Microdermabrasion Kits

Since at-home microdermabrasion can be new territory for most people, it's best to consult a dermatologist with your pick before using it and to remember to pair this routine with a regular office visit. "Look for devices and products that have the finest grade exfoliating features," says Nazarian. "It should feel almost smooth with only a minor amount of texture. Anything that feels too rough or bumpy is typically too aggressive for skin."

Trophy Skin MicrodermMD at Home Microdermabrasion Beauty System $100.00

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If you're new to at-home kits, this is a great place to start. "This device is high quality, compact, and easy to use with an automatic guide," Herrmann says. "Its diamond tip is of high quality, but there's only one. Some other devices have multiple tips that are meant to be used on tougher or more sensitive skin types." Nazarian also recommends the pick, but cautions use for those with delicate skin.

Kendal Kendal 3 in 1 Professional Diamond Microdermabrasion Machine $270.00

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"This is really one of the most powerful at-home devices and has multiple diamond tips, wands, and filters," Herrmann notes. This device is easy to use, so it's also a great choice for beginners.

PMD Personal Microderm Hand and Body Kit $160.00

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A favorite of both Nazarian and Herrmann, this PMD device is compact, making it perfect for travel. "The device uses small aluminum oxide crystal-coated disks that spin and scrub away dulling dead cells," Herrmann adds. "It has multiple disks that are perfect for many skin types and body areas."

Appolus Premium Diamond Microdermabrasion Device Kit $59.00

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"This is another great, compact kit with multiple parts," Herrmann says of the spa-grade device that works on all skin types. It contains two diamond tips and five vacuum options to target more.

Microderm GLO Mini Diamond Microdermabrasion System $60.00

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This device is ergonomic and small, making it ideal for travel or minimal bathroom storage space. a four-minute treatment is all you need to get started.