You’ve probably heard of microdermabrasion. It’s a skin care treatment that gently exfoliates to remove the outer layer of the skin, helping to reduce the appearance of sun damage, scarring, discoloration, and fine lines.
A dermatologist or esthetician typically performs microdermabrasion in a clinical office or med spa. It can be considered pricey when compared to other types of skin care treatments, so it may not be a preferred choice for some people.
At-home skin care devices are a cost-effective and convenient alternative, although they may not provide the same results you can get at a dermatologist’s office. But if you’re looking for an at-home alternative, the Trophy Skin MicrodermMD, a system for at-home microdermabrasion, may be a good option to try.
Keep reading for more information about this product and to see if it’s right for you.
MicrodermMD is a home microdermabrasion system created by Trophy Skin. The system uses a handheld device that claims to provide professional results from home. It plugs into a wall outlet and features an LCD screen to select your settings.
The handheld device is shaped like a small wand with an interchangeable tip at the end. It includes three tips:
- Standard Diamond Tip
- Extraction Tip
- Infusion Tip
To use the MicrodermMD, you gently drag the tip along the skin in short strokes. This takes about 5 minutes.
The MicrodermMD offers deep exfoliation that helps improve skin texture and tone to give skin a youthful glow. It smooths out rough and uneven skin, unclogs pores, and brightens areas of discoloration and dullness.
Trophy Skin also claims the device improves product absorption when you apply a serum or treatment after each use.
Pros
- provides deep exfoliation
- extracts clogged pores
- improves product absorption
- smooths and brightens the skin
- cost-effective alternative to in-office treatments
- uses a real diamond tip
- includes 3 tips
- offers 3 treatment modes and 8 suction levels
- LCD screen shows easy-to-follow routines
- can be used on the face and body
Cons
- higher-price upfront investment
- must replace filter after each use
- may have to purchase replacement tips and filters as needed
- higher price point in comparison with similar products
MicrodermMD is for anyone looking for an at-home alternative to professional microdermabrasion treatments.
Its exfoliation and anti-aging benefits make it a great choice for those dealing with dullness, roughness, discoloration, fine lines, wrinkles, sun damage, clogged pores, and uneven texture.
The device is also a choice for anyone who wants to improve the absorption of their serums and skin care products.
If you have any medical or skin conditions, Trophy Skin recommends checking with your doctor first.
The device comes with a handheld wand and LCD screen. The tip of the wand makes contact with the skin. The LCD screen is used to adjust the settings. Choose between eight suction levels and three treatment modes.
The tip of the wand is interchangeable and can be changed depending on the benefits:
- Standard Diamond Tip exfoliates the skin.
- Extraction Tip unclogs pores.
- Infusion Tip improves product absorption.
The system also includes a cleaning brush, power adapter, and 100-pack of filters.
A magnifying mirror is included for looking at your skin up close and watching the MicrodermMD at work.
It measures 11 x 8 x 10 inches. The component comes in three color choices: white, blush, and mint.
MicrodermMD retails for $299 but is often on sale for less than $200.
You can purchase MicrodermMD directly from the manufacturer’s website.
It’s also available on Amazon.com and select online retailers.
MicrodermMD is easy to use. Follow these steps for at-home use:
- Be sure to start with a clean face to prevent dirt, sebum, and makeup from clogging the filter.
- Plug the device in and turn it on.
- Ensure a new filter is in place and choose between the three interchangeable tips.
- Using the LCD screen, choose between Manual and Automatic mode. The latter is recommended for beginners. There is also a Sensitive Mode for sensitive skin.
- Watch the screen as it guides you through a microdermabrasion routine that spans the face, neck, and chest. The screen will direct you when, where, and which direction to use the device. Hold your skin taut as you drag the tip across it.
After using MicrodermMD, follow up with a serum to soothe the skin after exfoliation.
Trophy Skin recommends using the system on a weekly basis or up to two or three times per week.
Like any skin care product, whether MicrodermMD offers skin care benefits for you can depend on a number of factors, such as preexisting skin conditions. Many people who have used the system claim that it has worked for them.
While MicrodermMD likely will not work to get rid of deep wrinkles and active acne, it does provide gentle exfoliation that smooths and brightens the skin. Regular exfoliation with MicrodermMD removes dead skin cells and unclogs pores, making skin feel softer and helping your skin care products absorb better.
Like in-office microdermabrasion, MicrodermMD uses suction and a diamond tip to rejuvenate skin. Microdermabrasion uses a larger wand to remove the top layer of skin, while MicrodermMD works on a smaller level.
Trophy Skin is so confident in the effectiveness of this product that they guarantee it works. The device is backed by a 60-day money back guarantee and 1-year limited warranty.
MicrodermMD has thousands of customer reviews across various platforms. While some reviews are mixed, the majority are positive.
Some users found the device comparable to their in-office treatments. “The suction is as good as any I’ve had at spas. The diamond tips feel the same as spas,” writes Susan on Amazon, noting that she invested in the Precision Tip and recommends it to others.
Many users weren’t sure what to expect but were pleasantly surprised. Amazon user Jess writes that “this is magic” and her skin is like “baby skin” after just one use. She was impressed with the amount of dead skin she removed with the device, citing how smooth her skin feels.
Others are more critical. One customer review states that the product damaged their skin, and they experienced burning after use. Several reviews also warn that their device stopped working after several months or years.
The device has more than 924 5-star reviews on the manufacturer’s website and 246 5-star reviews on Amazon. It received 33 1-star reviews on Amazon and 30 1-star reviews on the manufacturer’s website.
Trophy Skin has had multiple complaints reported to the Better Business Bureau regarding shipping and refund issues but no reviews.
Trophy Skin has responded to several critical reviews offering customer support to fix the issues.
Microdermabrasion has many side effects. In-office treatments can cause swelling, irritation, or redness. At-home treatments may have similar results. Most users report that the device was well tolerated, but some users have experienced side effects like irritation and redness.
“This product has a diamond-tipped wand and several operating modes, making it a safe at-home option, when used appropriately,” says board certified dermatologist Ife J. Rodney, MD, FAAD. “When trying any microdermabrasion device, it’s important to start at a low speed or ‘Sensitive’ mode first. This decreases the risk of redness, irritation, and scarring of your skin.”
She also recommends using the device sparingly to avoid over-exfoliation. “Removing layers too quickly can lead to irritation and skin damage,” she says.
Applying a moisturizer immediately after each use can also help reduce side effects and restore your skin barrier.
If MicrodermMD isn’t for you, you may have success with treatments that a dermatologist or esthetician performs. Similar treatments include microdermabrasion, microneedling, and chemical peels.
Microdermabrasion is most similar. Like MicrodermMD, it involves a handheld wand with a crystal tip that gently exfoliates the outermost layer of the skin. Seeking professional treatments instead of doing it yourself at home reduces the risk of side effects and error.
Microneedling is a cosmetic procedure that uses small needles to create wounds in the skin. This prompts the skin to heal itself and create more collagen and elastin, resulting in a more youthful appearance.
Chemical peels are another alternative as they involve exfoliation to remove layers of the skin. They use chemicals instead of physical exfoliation, so they’re more advanced. They can penetrate deeper into the skin, so skin requires more recovery time and may experience more irritation and redness. Chemical peels are likely more effective.
At-home skin treatments should not be taken lightly. It’s tempting to attempt to treat yourself at home, but this can worsen your existing issues if not used correctly.
Anyone experiencing active acne or other skin conditions like eczema, or who’s pregnancy should consult their doctor prior to using at at-home microneedling device. This device may not be recommended for use alongside prescription-strength medications, such as Accutane or blood thinners.
Microdermabrasion can cause side effects like swelling, irritation, and redness. Call a doctor if you experience side effects that don’t subside or improve.
If you have ongoing skin issues, consider scheduling a visit at your dermatologist’s office.
UltradermMD | Silk’n ReVit Microdermabrasion Device | Nuvederm Microderm GLO | Fancii CLARA 4-in-1 Pore Cleanser | |
Price | $299 | $99 | $289.99 | $99 |
Key feature | LCD screen displays easy-to-follow routines | uses vacuum stimulation to remove blackheads | backed by a lifetime warranty | built-in hot and cold compress and LED light therapy settings |
Tips | 3 tips | 3 tips | 2 tips | 8 tips |
Levels/modes | 8 suction levels and 3 treatment modes | 2 suction modes | 2 modes | 5 suction strengths |
Getting started with MicrodermMD is simple.
You can order the device on Trophy Skin, Amazon, or via another authorized retailer. It includes everything you need to get started, but you may need to order additional tips, serums, and filters as needed.
Follow the instructional materials included with the device. When the device powers on, the LCD screen displays visual instructions to follow.
Wash your face before using MicrodermMD and have a serum ready to use following the treatment. Trophy Skin recommends using one of their topical serums with the device.
Where on my body can I use MicrodermMD?
MicrodermMD is intended for use on the face, neck, and chest. A larger tip is available for use on the entire body. The tip is small, so using it on large areas of the body may be time-consuming.
How often should I use MicrodermMD?
You should use MicrodermMD on a weekly basis. You can use it up to two or three times per week.
Do dermatologists recommend MicrodermMD?
Dermatologists recommend microdermabrasion, but in-office and at-home treatments can differ. The dermatologist we spoke to found the device safe when used properly.
Microdermabrasion is highly recommended by dermatologists and estheticians and has been shown to be an effective treatment for rejuvenating skin. For best results, it’s recommended to get microdermabrasion done on a monthly basis. This can be time-consuming and expensive.
At-home microdermabrasion can be done in minutes and is more cost effective. However, it may not be as effective as professional equipment.
The MicrodermMD system offers gentle exfoliation at home. This can improve the appearance of skin tone and texture and improve the absorption of skin care products. While it may not be for everyone, it receives positive feedback from some users and dermatologists.
Lacey Muinos is a health, wellness, and beauty writer based in Southern California. She holds a BA in English. Her work has appeared in digital publications like Livestrong, Verywell, Business Insider, Eat This Not That, and others. When she’s not writing, Lacey is likely pursuing her other interests: skin care, plant-based cooking, pilates, and traveling. You can keep up with her by visiting her website or her blog.