What Is a Microdermabrasion Facial? Everything You Need to Know

Quick Answer: A microdermabrasion facial is a non-invasive skin treatment that removes dead skin cells from the surface to reveal a smoother, brighter complexion. At Express Med Spa, we use Nano Tip Microdermabrasion with the CytoPen S2 device, a crystal-free, suction-free option with zero downtime. Single sessions start at $99. Book online or call (877) 363-3772.

What Is Microdermabrasion?

A microdermabrasion facial is one of the most popular professional skin treatments available today. It works by removing the top layer of dead skin cells to improve texture, brightness, and tone without surgery or downtime. Most clients notice a visible difference after a single session.

At Express Med Spa, we use a next-generation version of this treatment called Nano Tip Microdermabrasion, performed with the CytoPen S2 device. It delivers the same smoothing and brightening results as traditional methods but without crystals, suction, or irritation, making it a strong choice for sensitive skin and first-time facial clients.

This modern approach is ideal for clients dealing with uneven skin tone, age spots, or early texture concerns who want results without the recovery time that comes with deeper treatments.

Types of Microdermabrasion

There are a few core methods:

• Crystal Microdermabrasion: Sprays fine crystals onto the outer layer while using suction to exfoliate and clean.
  
• Diamond-Tip Microdermabrasion: Uses a diamond-coated wand with suction to manually exfoliate the surface. This method can be enhanced with the application of glycolic acid for deeper resurfacing.
  
• Nano Tip Microdermabrasion (what we use): Utilizes a needle-free, crystal-free cartridge on the CytoPen® to gently polish the skin—no suction, no scratching, and no redness.
  

Nano Tip technology offers the same smoothing, brightening results as traditional techniques but is non-invasive and irritation-free, making it perfect for those with delicate or rosacea-prone skin.

Benefits of Nano Tip Microdermabrasion

When performed regularly, this advanced form of skin treatment offers a wide range of microdermabrasion benefits:

1. Smoother Skin Texture
   Buffs away rough patches and dry flakes, leaving your skin soft and even. Nano Tip microdermabrasion helps to gently exfoliate your skin by polishing the outer layer of dead cells without irritation.
   
2. Brighter Complexion
   Removes dull surface cells to restore your skin’s natural glow and help improve the appearance of tired, uneven skin.
3. Improved Hydration
   Enhances product absorption, so your serums and moisturizers work better to hydrate the skin more deeply.
4. Minimized Pores
   Refines and clears out enlarged or congested pores, which can be caused by common skin concerns like oil buildup or pollution.
   
5. Fewer Fine Lines and Wrinkles
   Gently encourages skin renewal and collagen activity over time, helping reduce the appearance of fine lines through consistent treatment.
   
6. Fades Pigmentation and Acne Scars
   Softens the appearance of mild scarring and sun damage. For certain skin types, we may recommend incorporating ingredients like mandelic acid for enhanced results.
   
7. No Downtime
   You leave glowing—not red or flaky. Wear makeup the next day if needed for best results.

Who Should Skip Traditional Microdermabrasion?

While most skin types can benefit from exfoliation, not every microdermabrasion method is the right fit. Traditional crystal or suction-based techniques may not be appropriate if you have:

• Active skin infections or inflamed acne
• Recent chemical peels or laser treatments
• Fragile or extremely sensitive skin
• Active rosacea or eczema flares

For clients in any of those categories, Nano Tip Microdermabrasion is typically the gentler path forward because it removes the suction and crystal spray that cause irritation. If you are managing highly reactive skin or rosacea, our AquaFacial for sensitive skin may also be worth discussing during your consultation. Our licensed esthetician Kaitlin Knapp can walk you through which option fits your skin goals and current condition.

What Happens Before Your Facial?

At Express Med Spas, your experience is customized from start to finish:

• Consultation – We assess your skin type, goals, and skin concerns.
  
• Cleanse & Prep – We remove makeup, oils, and buildup to prep your skin.
  
• Discuss Your Goals – We explain how the treatment works and suggest optional add-ons like brightening or hydrating serums.
  

What Does Nano Tip Microdermabrasion Do?

It’s not just about glowing skin—it’s also a functional treatment that supports long-term skin health by:

• Gently exfoliating the skin without irritation
  
• Boosting circulation for a rosy, healthy tone
  
• Stimulating collagen production for smoother skin over time
  
• Helping skincare penetrate deeper and work more effectively
  
• Reducing signs of dullness, early aging, and surface discoloration
• Promoting even skin tone and brighter skin
  

Post-Treatment Care and Results

After your session, your skin will feel fresh, clean, and ultra-smooth. Here’s what to expect:

• No redness or peeling
  
• Hydrated glow that can last days
  
• Minimal aftercare:
  
  • Wear SPF daily
    
  • Avoid active ingredients like retinol for 48 hours
    
  • Skip heavy exfoliation or sun exposure

Working with a qualified skin care professional ensures your skin receives the best aftercare guidance and avoids unnecessary stress.

How to Prepare for Your Microdermabrasion Appointment

Getting the most from your session starts a few days before you arrive. In the 48 hours leading up to your appointment:

• Avoid retinol, AHAs, BHAs, and other active exfoliants
• Skip sun exposure and tanning beds
• Do not wax or use depilatory creams on the treatment area
• Come with a clean, makeup-free face if possible (your esthetician will cleanse before treatment)
• Stay well hydrated in the days leading up to your session

If you have had a recent chemical peel, laser treatment, or injectable procedure, let our team know when you book. We will schedule your appointment at an appropriate interval so your skin gets the full benefit of each treatment. For clients who receive regular facial spa services, microdermabrasion pairs well as a monthly maintenance step between deeper treatments.

How Long Do Results Last?

You’ll see a visible difference after one session—but for lasting skin improvements, we recommend:

• Every 3–4 weeks for maintenance
  
• 1–2 days before an event for an instant glow
  
• 4–6 sessions for deeper texture or pigment concerns

Consistent treatments with Nano Tip microdermabrasion allows for cumulative benefits that go beyond surface-level improvements.

Are There Any Side Effects?

Nano Tip Microdermabrasion is one of the gentlest resurfacing options available. Most clients experience:

• No redness, flaking, or tightness
  
• Immediate smoothness and clarity
  
• No risk of bruising or broken capillaries (common with suction-based options)

However, it’s still important to be aware of potential side effects of microdermabrasion—though rare with Nano Tip, sensitivity or temporary dryness may occur in some cases.

How Much Does It Cost?

At Express Med Spas, we offer transparent, affordable pricing:

• Single Session: Starting at $99
  
• Add-Ons: $15 for brightening or hydrating serums
  
• Packages Available: Ask about 3- or 6-session bundles to save
  

Nano Tip Microdermabrasion is available at all four Express Med Spa locations serving the Chicagoland area. You can book at our Frankfort location near New Lenox and Mokena, our La Grange location minutes from Western Springs and Hinsdale, our Shorewood location off Route 59, or our Mount Greenwood location on Chicago’s South Side. Online booking is available at all four locations and walk-in consultations are welcome.

Key Questions to Ask Before Your Facial

To get the most out of your appointment, consider asking:

• Is Nano Tip right for my skin type?
  
• How often should I come in?
  
• Can I combine this with peels or microneedling?
  
• What should I do (or not do) after treatment?
  

Our team is here to guide you with expert, personalized advice.

Microdermabrasion vs. Chemical Peels: Which Is Better?

The right treatment depends on what your skin actually needs, not just which one sounds more intensive.

Nano Tip Microdermabrasion works at the surface level. It is the better fit for clients who want to improve texture, reduce the look of clogged pores, and restore glow, especially those with sensitive skin who need zero downtime. Results are visible after one session and build over a series.

Chemical peels penetrate deeper. They are better suited for stubborn pigmentation, moderate acne scarring, or early fine lines that surface exfoliation alone cannot address. If hyperpigmentation or dark spots are your primary concern, a peel targeting dark spots may be a stronger starting point. Chemical peels can involve 3 to 7 days of skin shedding depending on the depth of the treatment.

Many clients rotate or combine both. A microdermabrasion session before a peel can help the chemical penetrate more evenly. We can help you build the right treatment sequence for your goals during a complimentary consultation at any of our four Chicagoland locations.

Dermabrasion vs. Microdermabrasion: What’s the Difference?

Dermabrasion is a more intense, surgical-level treatment. Our Nano Tip Microdermabrasion is gentle, modern, and ideal for everyday skin maintenance.

Is Nano Tip Microdermabrasion Right for You?

If you are looking for smoother skin texture, a brighter complexion, improved product absorption, and zero recovery time, Nano Tip Microdermabrasion can be a strong fit. It works well for sensitive skin, first-time facial clients, and anyone preparing for an event who wants a same-week result without the risk of irritation.

It may not be the right starting point if you are working through deeper scarring or significant pigmentation concerns. In those cases, your licensed esthetician may recommend layering microdermabrasion with a medical-grade peel or discussing whether microneedling is a better primary treatment for your goals.

Not sure which direction to go? A free consultation takes about 15 minutes and gives you a clear answer. Our esthetician will assess your skin, ask about your goals, and tell you exactly what she would recommend, with no pressure to book anything on the spot.

FAQs

Ready for Glow-Boosting Results Without Harsh Side Effects?

Nano Tip Microdermabrasion at Express Med Spa is a technology-backed, gentle, and results-driven treatment for anyone who wants visible improvement without stress or downtime. It is available at all four of our Chicagoland locations, and first-time clients can start with a complimentary consultation to make sure it is the right fit for their skin.

Book your appointment online or call us at (877) 363-3772. Same-week availability is often open at multiple locations.