Microdermabrasion as acne treatment

Jordana S. Gilman, MD answers: Microdermabrasion for adult acne on oily skin?

I have had light-moderate acne my whole life, and now I have little red scars on my face. I am considering Microdermabrasion to get rid of the scars, but will it irritate my oily skin? I have heard too that it can clear acne. What's true and what's not?


Jordana S. Gilman, MD
2 months ago

Microdermabrasion can be helpful in treating the type of acne that consists of clogged pores, blackheads and whiteheads, and skin-colored bumps.  By removing the top layers of skin and unclogging the pores with the vacuum-action of the wand, acne is improved.  However, if you have red bumps or deeper cysts, you may experience some irritation or flaring of your acne.

The redness that you describe sounds like leftover inflammation after the acne bumps have cleared.  This does not typically go away with  microdermabrasion.  It usually clears on its own with time and sun avoidance, but a retinoid cream and/or pulsed dye laser treatment can help.  Using a retinoid cream may also help treat your acne prevenet new breakouts.

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