A recent article published in Stat Pearls stated that microdermabrasion (MDA) is a minimally invasive epidermal resurfacing procedure used to treat uneven skin tone/texture, photoaging, striae, melasma and scars, including acne scars. It is widely available and one of the most common nonsurgical cosmetic procedures performed in the United States.

MDA was first introduced in 1985 by Marini and Lo Brutto as a less aggressive alternative to chemical peels and dermabrasion. The MDA procedure can be performed in the outpatient settings – medical office or medical spa, by a trained clinician, aesthetician, medical assistant or a nurse, without the use of anesthesia.

The authors elaborated that during the MDA procedure, abrasive crystals are propelled against the skin under the control of a handheld vacuum system. The crystals cause gentle mechanical abrasion over the skin, removing the stratum corneum layer. Thereafter, new epidermis forms with enhanced cosmesis. This technique is considered safe for all Fitzpatrick skin types and complications are minimal. Furthermore, studies have also shown improved skin permeability, and enhanced delivery of transdermal medications dosed on an area of the skin treated with MDA.

Source: StatPearls. 2020 Jan.