Contrary to dermabrasion (which requires a professional dermatologist), microdermabrasion literally 'skims the surface' and can either be done by a professional or by you. Microdermabrasion can even be done effectively with ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen cupboard.

Today, we're going to do our own microdermabrasion. The best part? It's hardly going to cost a thing! The worst part? It comes with a few precautionary warnings.

'Sanding off' a Few Layers

Microdermabrasion works by removing a few of the topmost layers of skin (stratum corneum).

It could be described as a 'pumped-up' version of exfoliating that stimulates cell growth and makes the skin particularly receptive to moisturisers.

Be sure you are stocked up on face oil and soothing skin mists/hydrosols (or moisturising sheet masks) before you begin.

Microdermabrasion can be done regularly and is beneficial for most skin types.

However... done incorrectly (or too often), the skin can become overly sensitive and damaged. Also, removing layers of skin means it is going to need extra sun protection afterwards.

NOTE: It's optimal to stay completely out of the sun for a few days after microdermabrasion.

Microdermabrasion Isn't For Everyone

Not all skin types benefit from microdermabrasion! If you have sensitive skin or are struggling with acne, ask a professional about microdermabrasion before trying this. Also, if you have a tendency to rosacea, microdermabrasion is NOT recommended for you.

And now that I've given you a few precautionary warnings, let's get busy!

Everything You Need Right At Home

The ingredients for this procedure are as common as you please, and probably already sitting in your kitchen cupboard – aloe vera juice (or gel) and baking soda (INCI: sodium bicarbonate).

Used correctly, baking soda is effective at microdermabrasion. Paired with aloe gel, application is easier and the skin is less likely to become irritated.

Now, before you start scrubbing away at your face and congratulating yourself on saving a pile of money at the spa, keep in mind that it is far too easy to irritate and damage the skin with this treatment, so be nice to your fabulous face and GO SLOW – don't overdo it!

(OK, that's the last warning I'm going to throw at you - promise)

The LisaLise Microdermabrasion Method

Wash your face with your preferred cleanser
Place 2 teaspoons of aloe vera gel* (or juice) in a small bowl
Mix approximately half teaspoon of sodium bicarbonate into the aloe vera gel until you have a smooth paste
Apply the paste to face and massage EVER SO GENTLY with an EVER SO LIGHT TOUCH using small circular motions. Move slowly, working outwards from the nose. Avoid the eye area.
Stop massaging after about 60 seconds.
Remove the paste by rinsing thoroughly. Use only water - do not use a wet cloth to remove. I'm sure you've seen the commercials where the lady splashes water on her face to rinse and you never see where all the extra droplets go or how big a mess the bathroom is afterwards. Rinse like that.
Let your skin air dry.

* you could replace this with a hydrosol of your choice

Proceed immediately to

The LisaLise Secret-To-Microdermabrasion-Success-Skin-Loving-Moisture-Drench-Routine

Mist your face generously with hydrosol
Apply a moisturising sheet mask and let sit for 5-15 minutes (OR apply a generous dollop of (water based/gel) face serum and massage the face gently for a few minutes)
Remove the sheet mask
Pat the skin lightly - the gel/serum from the mask should be fully absorbed
Apply 12-15 drops of face oil and gently massage into the skin
Finish with a final mist of hydrosol

Followup Moisturising

In the following days, your skin is going to be thirsting for more skin-drenching goodness and will therefore thrive on repeat performances of the LisaLise Secret-To-Microdermabrasion-Success-Skin-Loving Moisture Drench Routine (I really must figure out a shorter name for this procedure).

Enjoy!

How Often

This DIY microdermabrasion method can be done every 6-8 weeks for a total of 3 sessions/times. After 3 sessions, take a 3-4 month rest period before starting again.