Microdermabrasion and Mechanical Exfoliation
What this domain tests
This domain covers mechanical exfoliation methods-crystal and diamond-tip microdermabrasion, dermaplaning, scrubs, and brushes-plus device setup, pass technique, vacuum control, and contraindications. Exam items often ask you to choose a safe pressure and number of passes for a given skin type.
Core rules
- Crystal systems spray aluminum oxide or sodium chloride crystals and vacuum them away; diamond systems use an abrading tip and vacuum. Both create controlled superficial injury.
- Use lower vacuum and fewer passes on thin, sensitive, or rosacea-prone skin; avoid bony areas, the eyelids, and active lesions.
- Typical protocols use one to three passes in one direction, with a second pass perpendicular; overlapping too much increases abrasion.
- Dermaplaning uses a sterile blade at a low angle to remove vellus hair and stratum corneum; it is not for active acne, bleeding disorders, or undiagnosed lesions.
- Contraindications include active infection, recent isotretinoin, fragile capillaries, keloid history, sunburn, and areas with open skin.
Worked example
A client with photoaging and mild texture requests a strong scrub. She has telangiectasia on the cheeks. Plan diamond microdermabrasion at low vacuum, one pass on the cheeks and two on the forehead, avoiding the nose and bony prominences. The reasoning: visible vessels mean fragile capillaries; higher vacuum or extra passes could cause purpura.
Traps
More pressure is not better. Do not use microdermabrasion over active acne or cold sores. Clean and disinfect the handpiece and vacuum reservoir per manufacturer instructions; do not treat an area just waxed or chemically peeled.