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.

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