Is Microdermabrasion Safe for Sensitive Skin? Here’s What You Need to Know

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August 15, 2025

Young and mature women with clear, glowing skin standing against an olive background, representing skincare, spa treatments, plastic surgery, facelifts, and microdermabrasion.Does your skin flush at the lightest touch or sting from new skincare products? Sensitive skin can make you cautious about anything labeled “exfoliation.” Yet, smoother, brighter skin often comes from removing old, dead cells. So, is microdermabrasion a gentle friend or a foe for delicate complexions? Let’s shine some light on the truth.

At Chevy Chase Dermatology, Dr. Margaret Sommerville blends medical expertise with aesthetic artistry to deliver advanced skin care. A board-certified dermatologist trained at George Washington University Medical School, Dr. Sommerville completed her dermatology residency at the University of Michigan and the University of Missouri. With over fifteen years in private practice, she’s renowned for personalized treatments that respect the skin’s natural beauty. 

Why Sensitive Skin Needs Extra Care During Microdermabrasion

People with sensitive skin often worry about redness, irritation, or breakouts from abrasive treatments. Microdermabrasion exfoliates the outer layer of skin to help reduce dullness, fine lines, and mild pigmentation. However, not all methods are the same. Here’s what makes the difference:

  • Crystal vs. Crystal-Free: Traditional devices use crystals that may irritate delicate skin. Crystal-free options, like sapphire tips, reduce friction and minimize airborne particles.
  • Pressure Control: Skilled providers can adjust the device’s pressure for lighter exfoliation, preventing discomfort.
  • Cooling and Hydration: Some systems combine gentle exfoliation with soothing botanical extracts to calm inflammation.
  • Sterility and Technique: Practices like those at Chevy Chase Dermatology emphasize the use of sterile, high-quality tools and precise techniques for safer outcomes.

Understanding these nuances helps sensitive skin patients avoid unnecessary reactions while still enjoying rejuvenating benefits.

Benefits of Sapphire Microdermabrasion for Sensitive Skin

Many patients with sensitive skin feel excluded from treatments like microdermabrasion. Yet, sapphire technology offers significant benefits due to its gentle approach. At Chevy Chase Dermatology, Dr. Sommerville uses genuine sapphire granules for careful exfoliation without harsh scratching. Patients love how this method refreshes skin without leaving it red or raw. Consider these advantages:

  • Reduced irritation: Sapphire tips glide smoothly and avoid the scratching often caused by crystal devices.
  • Minimal downtime: Patients typically resume activities immediately, without redness or flaking.
  • Custom treatments: Dr. Sommerville tailors pressure and duration for each patient’s skin type.
  • Botanical infusion: Post-treatment application of soothing plant extracts helps sensitive skin heal and glow.
  • Improved skin texture: Even delicate skin can achieve smoother texture and refined pores with consistent sessions.

These gentle features make sapphire microdermabrasion a viable option for those who were previously advised to avoid exfoliation.

Experience Gentle Rejuvenation with Microdermabrasion

Sensitive skin deserves thoughtful care, and modern microdermabrasion makes beautiful results possible without harsh side effects. Call 301-656-7546 to discover how sapphire microdermabrasion can help you achieve a radiant glow with confidence.


Category: Microdermabrasion


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