 
It seems natural to think stronger suction gives better results, but with microdermabrasion that is not always true. Suction strength is only one part of the treatment. Results also depend on the number of passes, how fast the handpiece moves, how long it stays on the skin and how thick or sensitive your skin is.
One study found that crystal flow and treatment time affected the outer skin layer more than suction alone. That is why professional microdermabrasion at PURE Medical Spa is adjusted to your skin instead of turned up to the strongest setting every time.
Key Takeaways
- ✓Suction is one of several settings that shape the treatment.
- ✓Time on the skin, passes and abrasive flow matter just as much.
- ✓Thin or sensitive areas need gentler settings to avoid irritation.
- ✓For a visit tuned to your skin, book a consultation.
How Does Microdermabrasion Work?
The treatment gently exfoliates the stratum corneum, the outermost layer of the skin. Depending on the system, it uses crystals or an abrasive tip with vacuum suction, and the loosened surface cells are drawn away through the handpiece. It may be considered for:
- ✓Dull looking skin.
- ✓Uneven surface texture.
- ✓Mild fine lines.
- ✓Enlarged looking pores.
- ✓Superficial acne related texture.
- ✓Rough or congested skin.
Microdermabrasion is a surface treatment, and it does not need to feel aggressive to work. The science is explained further in the real science behind microdermabrasion.
Why Suction Strength Is Only One Factor
A controlled study of microdermabrasion settings found that the amount of stratum corneum removed was strongly affected by crystal flow rate and exposure time, while suction pressure had a weaker effect under the conditions tested. Dermatology reviews add that intensity depends on passes, handpiece movement, abrasive output, operator pressure and vacuum strength together.
| Setting | What it changes |
|---|---|
| Suction | How firmly the skin is held against the tip. |
| Passes | How many times each area is treated. |
| Speed and time | How long the tip works on one spot. |
| Abrasive flow or tip | How much surface is polished away. |
| Your skin | Thickness and sensitivity set the safe range. |
What This Means for Your Visit
Stronger suction alone does not define a better treatment. A skilled provider balances every setting for your skin and your goal.
PURE MEDICAL SPA CHICAGO
Gentle Settings, Glowing Results
Every microdermabrasion visit is tuned to your skin.
Can Stronger Suction Be Too Aggressive?
Yes. More intensity is not always more effective, and thin or delicate areas need gentler settings. Excessive mechanical stress can increase the chance of:
- ✓Redness and tenderness.
- ✓Temporary irritation.
- ✓Bruising.
- ✓Increased sensitivity.
- ✓Barrier disruption.
A trained provider changes the settings during the visit based on how your skin responds. If you also use a home exfoliating tool, read professional microdermabrasion after at home device use.
Benefits of Customized Microdermabrasion
A properly adjusted treatment improves the look and feel of your skin without unnecessary irritation. Benefits include smoother feeling skin, a brighter complexion, removal of surface buildup, more even looking texture and little recovery time for many people. For dull skin, a lighter approach may be plenty, while texture goals may need a different plan.
What About Fine Lines, Pores and Acne Scars?
Microdermabrasion can soften the look of mild surface lines, but it will not erase deep wrinkles. It can improve the overall look of texture around pores, although pore size depends on several factors. For acne scars, it helps mainly with superficial texture, and deeper or indented scars often need another approach such as microneedling. Learn more in microneedling for enlarged pores and VI Peel for visible pores.
Microdermabrasion at PURE Medical Spa
During your consultation, your skin is assessed before the intensity is chosen, and the treatment is adjusted during the visit as your skin responds. Judge your results by smoothness, brightness and texture rather than by how strong the suction felt. Men with beards can read microdermabrasion for men with facial hair, and see what to expect before and after microdermabrasion.
Supporting Your Skin After Microdermabrasion
Keep skincare simple and follow your provider’s instructions. PURE often discusses SkinMedica HA5 Hydra Collagen for hydration, ALASTIN Regenerating Skin Nectar for post procedure care and ALASTIN HydraTint Pro Mineral SPF 36 for daily sun protection. Avoid strong exfoliating acids or scrubs right after treatment unless your provider recommends them.
Visit PURE Medical Spa Across Chicagoland
PURE Medical Spa welcomes you at five convenient clinics in Chicago and the suburbs. Ask our team which location offers microdermabrasion and pick the visit that fits your schedule.
PURE Medical Spa Gold Coast (N. Dearborn), Chicago
875 N Dearborn St, Suite 300, Chicago, IL 60610
Book OnlineCall or Text 312.312.7873Naperville 331.283.0440
Frequently Asked Questions
Does stronger suction improve microdermabrasion results?
Not necessarily. Research suggests that exposure time, crystal flow, number of passes and handpiece technique can matter as much as, or more than, suction alone.
Is stronger microdermabrasion better for skin?
No single strength suits everyone. Treatment intensity should match your skin type, treatment area and cosmetic goal.
How strong should microdermabrasion suction be?
There is no universal setting. Your provider adjusts suction for the device, skin thickness, sensitivity and how the area responds.
Can microdermabrasion suction damage skin?
Excessive intensity can cause irritation or injury, which is why thinner areas need reduced suction and lower intensity.
What microdermabrasion pressure is right for sensitive skin?
Sensitive skin usually needs a more conservative approach, chosen by the treating professional after assessing your skin.
BOOK YOUR VISIT
Smooth Skin, Perfectly Tuned
Book a microdermabrasion consultation at a PURE clinic near you.
Safety note: Microdermabrasion may not be appropriate over active infections, open wounds, significant inflammation, severe acne lesions or an impaired skin barrier. Tell your provider about prescription skincare, recent procedures, strong exfoliants and past reactions, and seek medical attention for severe pain, significant swelling, blistering, spreading redness, drainage or worsening discoloration. This article is educational and does not replace a medical assessment.
References
- National Library of Medicine: Andrews SN, et al. Optimization of microdermabrasion for controlled removal of stratum corneum
- National Library of Medicine: Bhalla M, Thami GP. Microdermabrasion: reappraisal and brief review of literature
