Microdermabrasion is a popular non-invasive and non-chemical cosmetic procedure. It can be performed by a dermatologist in an office, an esthetician at a spa or by you at home. Professionals will likely use one of two methods. A Parisian peel is where they spray tiny crystals onto the skin's surface using a small device shaped like a wand or pen. The dead skin cells and crystals are vacuumed off. The other procedure is called a diamond peel. A diamond tipped, stainless steel wand is rubbed over the skin. Again the debris is vacuumed off. At home kits contain creams with tiny crystals which are rubbed on the skin. Depending on the particular system you'll be using either your hands or some sort of cloth or sponge. The cream is then rinsed off after use.

Microdermabrasion works like most other exfoliation treatments, only deeper. It resurfaces the skin by taking off the top layer of skin. This allows a healthy new layer to emerge. In professional treatments, the vacuuming required to remove the debris has added bonuses. The suction not only helps increase blood flow, but also stimulate elastin and collagen production. Manually rubbing the skin as required when using at home kits can also increase blood flow.

As a treatment for acne scars, microdermabrasion can help reduce the appearance of scars. Skin may be brighter and more even-toned. Your pores might be smaller. Any fine line and wrinkles present could be diminished. Age spots can also be treated with this method. This is great for those of you who are looking for something stronger than old-fashioned exfoliation techniques. Invasive and more expensive treatments that usually require more downtime aren't always good options for many of you either. At home treatments are a great alternative if you need something more budget-friendly. The fact that microdermabrasion is sort of middle of the road, makes it one of the top acne treatments.

There are, of course good points and bad points.

The pros: The treatment is non-invasive and has no harsh chemicals. There is very little downtime. When done properly, it is also painless. You skin will also be smoother and brighter. The suction created from vacuuming the debris helps increase blood flow and stimulate collagen and elastin in the skin. (Collagen provides strength and firmness, while elastin provides flexibility.) This procedure non-invasive and costs less than laser treatments and dermabrasion.

The cons: Those with current acne and/or sensitive skin must take extra care to avoid flare-ups. It definitely should not be used by those with severe acne. Micrdermabrasion will aggravate these issues. It won't work for deep acne scars. Sometimes skin will get worse before it gets better. Each treatment requires several sessions. It's not a cure, so maintenance will most likely be required. Otherwise you may have to start all over.

When it comes to finding the best place to go for treatment, you'll have to conduct your own research. I can however, give you the top home microdermabrasion kits.