Microdermabrasion is becoming an increasingly popular treatment for acne patients. Although microdermabrasion is not specifically designed to treat acne it has a proven track record of being effective at reducing acne lesions.



Microdermabrasion works against acne in two ways. The exfoliation of the top layer of skin unclogs pores which are a major cause of acne. By unclogging the skin pores through exfoliation, microdermabrasion releases the acne-causing bacteria from underneath the skin's surface so it can work it's way out naturally.

Microdermabrasion relies on the use of tiny crystals to abrade against the surface of the skin and perform the exfoliation. The most popular microdermabrasion crystals used are aluminium oxide crystals and sodium bicarbonate crystals. Both of these have anti-bacterial properties which mean when they are blasted onto the skin they kill the bacteria on the face, further reducing the likelihood of acne returning.

However, when talking about microdermabrasion results against acne, it's important to remember that acne has many different types and causes. Therefore the effectiveness of microdermabrasion as an acne treatment varies between individuals. While some acne patients may see improvements after only one microdermabrasion treatment, others may need several treatments to obtain any benefits.

People with severe pustular acne should not undergo microdermabrasion procedures because this is likely to make it worse. Pustular acne is when the skin is extremely red, swollen and sensitive. In such cases any type of abrasion against the skin is likely to hurt and cause scarring. It's best to wait for the acne to subside slightly before performing microdermabrasion.

Some people experience a temporary surge in acne spots immediately after microdermabrasion. Although this looks worrying, it is actually a good thing because the spots are being purged from your face. Whereas the acne causing bacteria had previously been trapped under the skin, microdermabrasion releases it and the temporary increase is a sign that the bacteria are coming out. After a few days the spots should begin to disappear leaving the skin acne free.

Both professional microdermabrasion treatment and home microdermabrasion kits can be used for treating acne. Home kits have the advantage of being cheaper and more convenient, although results with professional microdermabrasion are quicker and longer lasting.