Microdermabrasion is a common type of facial usually performed by a dermatologist or an esthetician to reveal a fresh layer of skin on the face. It uses tiny exfoliating crystals, which are sprayed on the skin, to ameliorate dull skin, brown spots and age spots; however, its not effective on scars, stretch marks or wrinkles. It works on all skin types and colors, causing no color changes or scarring, and most people recover from the procedure within 24 hours. Most providers charge a set fee for microdermabrasion services, so there are few factors to account for when budgeting this treatment. The major variables are the length of the session, which can range from half an hour to more than an hour, and complementary services, such as a massage.
Microdermabrasion can be done as often as every week, but many clients have it done monthly after the first few sessions. To get the best results, for example, people may have three weekly sessions to reduce the appearance of acne scars or spots, then make monthly appointments to maintain the look of their skin.
Providers may offer 30-minute or 60-minute sessions. For example, Sacré, a spa in San Francisco, charges $75 for a 30-minute targeted microdermabrasion session and $175 for a 60-minute organic microdermabrasion session; a package of six 60-minute sessions can be purchased for $600.
Longer sessions are sometimes available and may include extra services. Skin Care in San Francisco charges $170 for a 75-minute session, which includes hydrating treatments, an oxygen mist and a massage.
A few providers offer several microdermabrasion options. For instance, Fiona Medical Spa in Framingham, Massachusetts, has either 30-minute or 45-minute standard sessions or microdermabrasion with a peel, which cost $100 or $150. These sessions are also combined with either red or blue light therapy and oxygen therapy for additional skin rejuvenation; red light therapy is intended to reduce wrinkles and shrink pores, while blue light therapy can kill the bacteria that causes acne.