Diamond-Tip, Crystal, or Hydrodermabrasion: Which Exfoliating Facial Is Right for You?
What Is Dermabrasion—and Why Was It Developed?
Dermabrasion has been around since the 1950s, originally created for medical use to treat scarring and deep wrinkles. Fast-forward to today, and we’ve got way more refined, gentle versions like microdermabrasion and hydrodermabrasion—developed in the 1980s and ‘90s—for smoother, clearer skin without the downtime.
All types of dermabrasion work by sloughing off the outermost layer of skin to
Improve texture
Unclog pores
Help your skincare products work harder
The 3 Main Types of Dermabrasion Facials:
💎 Diamond-Tip Microdermabrasion
How it works:
A wand with a diamond-coated tip exfoliates your skin while a vacuum suctions away debris. Sort of feels like a cat licking your face.
Best for:
Normal to oily skin
Dull texture
Fine lines
Mild acne scarring
Light hyperpigmentation
Pros:
✅ Less irritating than crystals can sometimes be
✅ Good for delicate areas
Cons:
❌ Not hydrating
❌ May not go deep enough for thick or scarred skin
Recommended Series:
Normal skin: Every 2–4 weeks (4–6 sessions)
Acne-prone: Weekly/biweekly initially
Mature skin: Every 2–3 weeks (4–6 sessions)
Not Recommended If You Have:
Active acne
Rosacea flare-ups
Open wounds
Recent chemical peels
✨ Crystal Microdermabrasion
How it works:
Fine crystals (usually aluminum oxide) are sprayed onto the skin, then vacuumed off to exfoliate.
Best for:
Thicker, textured skin
Deeper acne scars
Sun damage
Stubborn pigmentation
Pros:
✅ Deeper exfoliation
✅ Powerful resurfacing for rough skin
Cons:
❌ Can feel a little more intense
❌ Not ideal for sensitive skin or around the eyes
Recommended Series:
Oily/thick skin: Weekly or biweekly (6–8 sessions)
Acne scars: Biweekly (6–12 sessions)
Pigmentation: 4–8 sessions with SPF diligence
Not Recommended If You Have:
Sensitive or inflamed skin
Active breakouts
Asthma (crystals can become airborne)
💧 Hydrodermabrasion (Wet Microdermabrasion)
How it works:
Uses water and customized serums to exfoliate, hydrate, and nourish the skin all in one go.
Best for:
Dry or sensitive skin
Dehydration and dullness
Congestion/blackheads/non-inflammed acne
Uneven skin tone
Pros:
✅ Very gentle and hydrating
✅ No downtime
✅ Safe for rosacea-prone skin (non-active phase)
Cons:
❌ Doesn’t go as deep for thick scarring
❌ More subtle results—best with consistency
Recommended Series:
Dry/sensitive skin: Every 3–4 weeks (4–6 sessions)
Maintenance: Monthly
Congested skin: Biweekly to start
Not Recommended If You Have:
Active acne
Severe rosacea flare-ups
Broken or open skin
Allergies to specific serum ingredients
For all Dermabrasion Treatments: What Results Can You Expect?
After just one session, most clients notice:
✅ Smoother skin
✅ Brighter complexion
✅ Better product absorption
✅ More flawless makeup application
For long-term improvements like fading pigmentation or smoothing texture, we recommend a series of 4–6 treatments spaced appropriately for your skin type.
Dermabrasion Cheat Sheet:
Skin Type or Concern Best Dermabrasion Type
Sensitive or Dry Skin Hydro
Normal Skin Diamond-Tip
Thick/Scarred Skin Crystal
Congested Skin Hydro or Crystal
Dark Spots/Aging Crystal or Diamond Tip
Rosacea (Non-flare) Hydro
Post-Treatment Tips:
🌞 SPF, always. Your skin will be more vulnerable post-exfoliation.
💦 Hydrate inside and out. Water and a good moisturizer are key.
🧴 Skip strong actives for 2–3 days. Let your skin rest and repair.
🗓️ Stick to your schedule. Consistency = visible results.
Final Thoughts:
There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to dermabrasion—but that’s the beauty of it. Whether your skin is thirsty, thick, or just feeling a little “meh,” there’s an exfoliating facial that can get you glowing.
Want help choosing the right option? Send me text or email. No pressure. Just honest skin advice based on where you’re at and where you want to go.
Let’s glow.
