Microdermabrasion does many wonders to the skin. One of the most noticeable differences is how smooth your skin will be afterwards. The treatment helps to get rid of dead skin cells, promote cellular production, and at the end you are left with a smooth and radiant complexion.
It is also extremely beneficial as an anti-aging treatment. If you’re looking to fight aging, microdermabrasion helps to:
- Reduce fine lines and wrinkles,
- Decrease the appearance of age spots and hyperpigmentation, and
- Boost collagen production.
The other benefit that makes microdermabrasion so popular is its effectiveness in helping to clear acne. It is a comprehensive alternative procedure to treating acne as well as preventing future breakouts.
Back in the day, traditional crystal microdermabrasion was widely used as an exfoliator to produce clear, radiant skin. As technology advanced, dermatologists then came up with a new technique: diamond microdermabrasion. It has become the more popular option, but it also has its pros and cons.
In this blog post, we will discuss the difference between Crystal and Diamond Microdermabrasion in detail. Read on to learn about the pros and cons, so it can help you decide which procedure is most suitable for your skin concern and condition.
What is Crystal Microdermabrasion?
Crystal Microdermabrasion is the traditional form of exfoliation used since the 1990s. It used to be the only method for exfoliation which many spas’ and medical clinics’ clients were dependant on. The machine creates a vacuum-like sensation against the skin by drawing in air through a hand-held stainless steel or glass wand.
How does it work?
The most common crystals used in the handheld device are aluminium oxide crystals. It emits the aluminum oxide crystals on the skin and vacuums up these used crystals along with any dirt and dead skin cells off of the skin.
Aluminum oxide crystals are one of the hardest minerals due to the irregular shape and abrasive texture. For those with sensitive skin, crystal microdermabrasion can therefore be abrasive and too harsh on the skin, putting it at risk of skin inflammation.
It is recommended for those with sensitive skin and rosacea should avoid crystal microdermabrasion and opt for the diamond microdermabrasion instead.
Advantages of Crystal Microdermabrasion
Here are some advantages of Crystal Microdermabrasion:
- Effective for deep exfoliation in the pores of the skin
- Crystals are hypoallergenic and non-toxic
- Treatment will not cause adverse reactions and requires little to no downtime
Disadvantages of Crystal Microdermabrasion
Here are some factors that need to be considered before opting for Crystal Microdermabrasion:
- Abrasive nature of the crystals can be too harsh on the skin and cause possible inflammation
- Leftover crystals on the skin can be difficult to remove and clean up
- High dependency on the machine requires a timely maintenance of the machine itself
What are the results?
Crystal microdermabrasion is highly dependent on the machine, meaning keeping up with the maintenance of the machine itself is very important. The state of the machine will affect the machine's ability to vacuum dead skin cells which in turn affects the overall effectiveness.
While crystal microdermabrasion is effective at doing its job, it is slowly being phased out in most spas and medical clinics. More commonly it is now replaced by modern techniques that are also more cost effective and reliable, such as Diamond Microdermabrasion.
What is Diamond Microdermabrasion?
Diamond microdermabrasion has become increasingly popular over the last 10 years and is the newest form of exfoliation to date. It is commonly known as the crystal free or diamond tipped machine.
How does it work?
Similar to Crystal Microdermabrasion, it removes dirt and dead skin cells through suction and filter. The debris from the outer layer of the skin is vacuumed and filtered so the client can actually see the result from the exfoliation.
The diamond-tipped wand is easy to use and very precise. It can exfoliate even the tight spots around the nose, mouth and eyes without leaving particles on your face. Diamond microdermabrasion is not as abrasive as crystal microdermabrasion, making it safe and suitable for all skin types.
Advantages of Diamond Microdermabrasion
Here are the advantages of Diamond Microdermabrasion:
- Effective and precise exfoliation in hard-to-reach areas such as around the nose, mouth and eyes
- No particles are left on the skin, leaving a clean and damage-free surface
- Treatment will not cause adverse reactions and requires no downtime
Disadvantages of Diamond Microdermabrasion
Here are the disadvantages of Diamond Microdermabrasion:
- Bacteria can become stuck within the tips if the machine is not cleaned properly
- High dependency on the skill of the professional. The professional’s skill determines the effectiveness of the treatment
What are the results?
The effectiveness of diamond microdermabrasion depends on the skill of the professional operating the machine. A trained professional has to apply the right pressure and technique to effectively guide the diamond-tipped wand in specific areas that need exfoliation. Therefore, it gives more control over the course of the treatment.
Most spas and medical clinics nowadays prefer diamond microdermabrasion over crystal microdermabrasion simply because it is easier to use and allows for better control. The chances of irritation and inflammation are smaller as it does not use abrasive crystals, and therefore it is suitable for all skin types and conditions.
Which one is best for you?
Between Crystal and Diamond Microdermabrasion, which one would work the best for your skin depends on your personal preference. In general, diamond microdermabrasion is most preferred among clients because you can see the difference in person. You can see the dirt and dead skin cells filtered off from your skin and knowingly believe that your treatment is working.
On the other hand, if you have been using Crystal Microdermabrasion for a long time, it is a worthwhile investment for prolonged clear and radiant skin. It is important to keep in mind that the effectiveness of microdermabrasion, whether it is crystal or diamond, increases over a series of treatments.
If you are still contemplating about the two microdermabrasions, contact us for a free skin consultation and we'll be happy to assist you.
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