microdermabrasion

noun

mi·​cro·​derm·​abra·​sion ˌmī-krō-dər-mə-ˈbrā-zhən 

: a cosmetic procedure for the skin that involves the mechanical abrasion and removal of all or part of the stratum corneum (as by a high pressure spray of granular crystals) and is used to rejuvenate the skin and to treat skin blemishes or imperfections (such as scars or wrinkles)

Examples of microdermabrasion in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Start by using the microdermabrasion function to clean out congested pores before moving on to use the sonic function. —Neha Tandon, Glamour, 7 Aug. 2024

Hyaluronic acid fillers came in second, followed by skin-resurfacing treatments (like peels, lasers, and microdermabrasion). —Elizabeth Siegel, Allure, 25 June 2024

The esthetician will thoroughly clean the skin using microdermabrasion to release excess dirt in our pores, apply enzymes for further cleaning and softening, extract blemishes, and end with a facial mask. —Celeste Polanco, Essence, 13 June 2024

The levante is the easterly blow favored by windsurfers that causes heavy swells, casts apocalyptic clouds, and gives shins an unwanted microdermabrasion. —Lydia Bell, Condé Nast Traveler, 29 May 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1993, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

microdermabrasion

noun

mi·​cro·​derm·​abra·​sion ˌmī-krō-ˌdər-mə-ˈbrā-zhən 

: a cosmetic procedure for the skin that involves the mechanical abrasion and removal of all or part of the stratum corneum (as by a high pressure spray of granular crystals) and is used to rejuvenate the skin and to treat skin blemishes or imperfections (such as scars or wrinkles)

During a professional microdermabrasion treatment, skin is blasted with jagged-edged crystals, usually aluminum oxides, that are applied with a wand, which also has a suction mechanism to pull away dead skin cells.

—Jessica Ramakrishnan, The Chicago Tribune