At Home Microdermabrasion
Now that I am in my mid thirties, I have been forced to actually think about a proper skincare regimen. Of course, I know I am supposed to cleanse, exfoliate and moisturize daily, and of course I know that I should never ever ever go to bed with makeup on, but knowing and doing are two totally different things. I recently made a vow to treat my skin and my body better. My first order of business was to find out what on earth I should be doing with my skin outside of the basics of cleansing and moisturizing, and microdermabrasion kept coming up. Microdermabrasion is a mini-procedure that involves the skin being "sandblasted" by little crystals that remove the top layer of dead skin cells. This process helps to promote the production of new, healthy cells.
Although sandblasting your face may not sound appealing, think of all of the benefits that microdermabrasion may have for your aging skin. It can help clean your pores and help to prevent future breaks outs. It also stimulates collagen growth which will help to even out your skin's texture and appearance.
We asked prominent New York City dermatologist Dr. Ariel Ostad about the ins and outs of microdermabrasion. Earlier this summer, he helped us navigate through the seas of sunscreens, so we felt he would be a great resource in learning more about microdermabrasion. According to Dr. Ostad, pretty much anyone can benefit from microdermabrasion, unless you suffer from rosacea, which can be aggravated by the procedure and may cause more redness.
And, if you are wondering if you should go to a dermatologist for this procedure or try an at home kit, Dr. Ostad says that office-based microdermabrasion treatments use state-of-art technology that aids in the exfoliation of dead skin cells and has the rejuvenating effect of stimulating collagen and the tightening of the skin. He added that in office microdermabrasion treatments offer a deeper exfoliation due to their higher power than any at home scrub or exfoliating device could manage to do.
In an ideal world, we would all be able to go to the dermatologist as suggested by Dr. Ostad, but for many of us, at home microdermabrasion kits are a more practical and affordable option to take advantage of the many benefits of microdermabrasion.
Here are 4 at home microdermabrasion kits that will help you to get better looking skin. One of the kits is my personal favorite!
Olay Regenerist Microdermabrasion Kit | starts at $22.94The Olay Regenerist Microdermabrasion System has two steps that work together to give you a combination of a microdermabrasion and mini-peel treatment. While it may sound harsh, it's gentle enough to use up to two times a week for noticeable results. It gently smooths your skin's texture and activates surface cell exfoliation. It also conditions the skin leaving it feeling soft and smooth.
Mary Kay TimeWise Microdermabrasion Kit | starts at $55A friend of mine, who has flawless skin, recommended that I try Mary Kay's TimeWise Microdermabrasion set. This is my pick for a great at-home microdermabrasion kit. I use it twice a week and have seen a noticeable change in the the look and feel of my skin. My complexion has never looked better and brighter. This kit uses professional grade exfoliating crystals to reveal more radiant, healthy looking skin. You replenish with a rich serum, containing vitamins, antioxidants and anti-irritants which leaves your skin looking and feeling fresh and new.
Neutrogena Advanced Solutions At Home MicroDermabrasion System | starts at $125The Neutrogena microdermabrasion kit is one of the more expensive at home kits. Its microdermabrasion cream has Aluminum Oxide Crystals which is the ingredient responsible for exfoliating the top layers of facial skin. There is also an applicator, which is not included in most at home kits.
L'Oreal Dermo-Expertise Refinish Micro-Dermabrasion Kit
| starts at $14.79For less than $15, this at-home microdermabrasion treatment will exfoliate the surface layer of the skin to reveal renewed, refreshed, younger-looking skin. The professional grade Aluminum Oxide Crystals help to smooth the skin's surface, refine pores and even-out skin tone. It even has a creamy formula, that gently soothes skin. This kit also includes post treatment therapy which enhances the benefits of the microdermabrasion and helps prevent future sun damage and signs of premature skin aging.
If you think that it is painful, you may want to think again. Dr Ostad said that the biggest misconception is that microdermabrasion is very painful, but he says that it is actually very comfortable and pleasant. He recommends it to all of his patients as the best way to keep dead skin cells from accumulating and helping to keep skin tone even. I personally do at-home microdermabrasion twice a month, and while I am not sure that I would call the experience pleasant, it doesn't hurt and I love the results!
Have you ever tried microdermabrasion, why or why not? Leave a comment below.
At home microdermabrasion. Don't knock it till you try it!
Special thanks to Dr. Ariel Ostad, 897 Lexington Avenue, NY, NY, 212-517-7900
Check out at home microdermabrasion kits at any price point!
Under $10 | Under $75 | Under $100
Next: Annoyed by stretch marks? Fight back!
More from AOL Shopping:
5 Things To Buy Right Now For Fall
Longchamp Bags
Denim From A - Z
UGGs
Neutral Makeup For Fall
Comments page 1 of 2
Neutral
Diane said 8-24-2010 @8:43PM
Silly Junk! There is no Microdearmabrasion Cream in the world that can provide a medical dermabrasion. You can not get the even abalation of a true mechanical Medical Microdermabrasion. Save your money and every so often have a ExcellaDerm Microdermabrasion Treatment from your physician or skin care professional. Sorry I have tried the mentioned products. It is all junk!
replyNeutral
Pat Easterday said 8-24-2010 @8:54PM
Has the editor tried Beauticontrol's Microderm Abrasion?
replyNeutral
carole said 8-24-2010 @9:00PM
Now and then I use Olay two step, very easy, derma crystals, massage lightly for a bout 45 seconds, then put on the activator enough to make it turn white and massage lightly for about a minute, rinse off good. Skin feels silky
replyHighest Rank
Pat Long said 8-24-2010 @9:31PM
One of my very favorite Mary Kay products! Ask your consultant for a sample :)
replyHighest Rank
Lola said 8-24-2010 @9:56PM
I am in my mid-thirties and I have been struggling with acne prone skin and dark pigmentation for years. I have tried many products and decided to do some research on microdermabrasion. Once I did my research I realized that it was something I would not be able to continuously maintain because of the cost; so I decided to try the over the counter kits first and I chose the Nuetrogena. There was a slight burning at first but after about three uses, my skin adjusted. It's an alright product however, I believe it's meant for people with less skin issues than I. I later visited a dermatologist and for $150 a pop every 4 weeks, I have it done in the office and I love it. Whenevr I have it done, my face feels so fresh and clear and smooth and after a few days that dead skin peels away and reveal radiance. My dark blemishes appeared to have lightened considerably. The only draw back to the treatments are the expense if your not rich which I'm not. Whenever I have a bit extra though, I am off to the dermatologist but in the meantime, I am still trying out the different over the counter kits.
replyNeutral
lucie said 8-24-2010 @11:57PM
I am in my late thirties and have come across so many different types of skin as a Mary Kay Consultant. May I suggest that you set up a complimentary facial and let us show you just how amazing the products can be and stay well within your budget.
Highest Rank
Lisa Runo said 8-24-2010 @9:56PM
Mary Kay is indeed a high-quality, easy-to-use product. I have very sensitive skin and I am able to use this product without irritation. It does leave your skin feeling & looking wonderful, and for those of us who can't afford to visit a dermatologist, it's the way to go!
replyHighest Rank
Judy Ahlberg said 8-24-2010 @10:16PM
Yes, the Editor is correct! I've used the Mary Kay Microdermabrasion for at least 2 years and get lots of compliments on my 60+ yr old skin. It is simple to use - I do it as part of my bed time routine. Don't forget the good cleanser and a moisturizer twice a day too - they are available with spf too for added sun protection. BTW, I've used the Microdermabrasion on the tops of my hands with wonderful results too. You know the hands are always a give away to a woman's age.
replyNeutral
Mallory said 8-25-2010 @12:15PM
Oh my goodness I completely agree! I am personally a Mary Kay consultant so my opinion may be biased however all of my customers LOVE the Mary Kay Microdermabrasion along with their personalized skin care regimen! The Mary Kay Microdermabrasion Set helps to reduce the size of pores which is a huge difference that many of my customers personally love about it. It leaves your skin with a great healthy glow along with all of the other benefits mentioned above. I would love to talk to anyone who is interested in learning more about this amazing product so feel free to email me at malloryreynolds@marykay.com.
replyNeutral
Robin said 8-24-2010 @10:13PM
I am 50+ and my skin does not look it. I LOVE Mary Kay products, especially the microdermabrasion kit. It leaves my skin feeling soft, smooth and looking great. I am also a Mary Kay independent sales rep. I encourage you to try the Miracle Set. Mary Kay has a great line of anti-aging skin products.Your skin will thank you and you will love your reflection in the mirror!!!!!!
replyNeutral
Robin said 8-24-2010 @10:19PM
Lola,
replyPlease try Mary Kay microdermabrasion. no burning, reasonably priced. Let me know if you don't have a consultant in your area.
Neutral
Sheri said 8-24-2010 @10:38PM
I just love the Mary Kay Microdermabrasion set, I am a Mary Kay Consultant, and if anyone needs my help just let me know. We have alot of great products, I love all of the products I use, thats why I became a consultant . I want to help everyone out with their skin care. You should try the product you will love your skin when you do.
replyNeutral
DJ said 8-24-2010 @10:53PM
"I skin" microdermabrasion kit from "Sally's Beauty Supply" works like the $125 Neutrogena kit you mention here at a l-o-t less cost than that! I don't know how much they are n-o-w, but several years ago I bought this plus a "micro-crystal" refill that lasted forever (it seemed) for less than $50.00! F-A-B-U-L-O-U-S results! BONUS...they send great coupons frequently also if you "join" their "Beauty Club" for a mere $5.00 per year! I've discovered LOTS of great "beauty things"---on the "CHEAP" there!!!
replyNeutral
Jennifer said 8-24-2010 @11:03PM
Beauti Control's microderm abrasion was the first in-home microderm, it is high quality at a great value price.
replyNeutral
Jennifer said 8-24-2010 @11:07PM
If anyone is interested in trying Beauti Control's microderm I would love to give you more information, please let me know!
replyNeutral
Rosemary said 8-24-2010 @11:07PM
I have been using Clinique's Exfoliating Scrub twice a week for many years. Recently I attended a wedding and an esthetitian there thought I was 35. I am 55! She wanted to know if I had plastic surgery! I keep it in the shower so it's easy to remember to use it. If you buy it when they have their "gift" promotions, you get an added makeup/skin care bonus.
replyNeutral
Italy said 8-25-2010 @6:15AM
Clinique, Clinique, Clinique for life!! ""What do you say about products that have kept my skin "Ageless" I have used Clinique since it first came to the dept stores - I am a Redhead that Menopause had NO downside - I used Clinique and my skin stayed the same from the start many years ago to now - The 3 step program for #2 - and add the regular scrub 1 or 2x a week and you get ageless skin for life. People always stop me and ask "what do you use on your skin" - I always reply "Clinque of course" For Xmas and Birthdays my gifts to everyone is always Clinique 3 step and the scrub - So may I say this to Clinique "Thank You and don't change a thing"""
Highest Rank
Lori said 8-24-2010 @11:19PM
I love the Mary Kay set. I haven't been using it long but I have had great results. It is a bit gritty but I think it feels pretty good actually. I'm in my 40's so I am always on the lookout for new skin products and Mary Kay has been the best so far.
replyHighest Rank
LG said 8-24-2010 @11:45PM
YOU CAN GET AN EXCELLANT KIT AT SALLYS BEAUTY SUPPLY, VERY INEXPENSIVE, WORKS GREAT!! THEIR NEW LINE IS I-SKIN
replyNeutral
Robin Lewis said 8-24-2010 @11:52PM
Want a FREE sample of the Mary Kay Microdermabrasion kit ? Register on my website, in the comments section put "microdermabrasion kit sample"
replyhttp://www.marykay.com/rlewis15. If you want to purchase a set it's onlyt $55 plus tax and shipping is FREE! 100% satifaction guarantee or your money returned. It's great for reducing pore size, fight teenage and adult acne, evening skintone, smoothing out scars and reducing wrinkles by removing those dead skin cells. You will get about 35 treatments in just one kit!