Hello! Does anyone out there combine microdermabrasion treatment with chemical peels? What are your thoughts?

I definitely recommend combining the two! I would only say 1 pass of microderm though...that gives just the right amount of exfoliation to allow easy penetration of the chemical peel. I've noticed fabulous results on clients and myself by using this method. It's gentle, not too aggressive, and won't cause any unnecessary inflammation, which of course can lead to hyperpigmentation!

I have been in the business for over 15 years and have always combined an appropriate percentage of a peel solution and have excellent results! I have a medical grade microdermabrasion machine. However, be aware of the type and sensitivity of your clients skin and use it with caution!

Don't you think mixing chemical and mechanical exfoliation is perhaps redundant?

I was always wondering this myself. How do you determine when it's too much and when it isn't ? I'm not doing micro myself, but at some point I'm thinking of starting.

I was always told peel before micro because the peel can be less predictable- but after doing research I think it is the other way around- do the micro, then the peel so the peel can penetrate deeper. When I have done this I have always made sure the client was on active homecare, and that they have worked up to this. I feel like the peeling process (if they do peel) does not last as long. I have had this done once and I really enjoyed the smooth feeling days after.

Here in Colorado, doing double exfoliation is out of our scope of practice (unless you're working with a physician). So no, I don't do micro + peel. However, I have done ultrasonic followed by peel, only if I know the client's skin well. It may seem redundant, but if the client hasn't been taking care of their skin you can get a better peel application/penetration if you pre-exfoliate the surface.

I've been getting a combination peel/microdermabrasion done on the keratosis pilaris on my arms for over 6 months now using PCA SKIN's Smoothing Body Peel Treatment. You'd never know I had KP at all if you saw my arms now! I definitely recommend combining!

I've always done peel then microderm....I think it can be done either way and both delivery wonderful results.

It depends on what you want to achieve. I believe if you want results under the skin, perform microdermabrasion first. On the other hand, perform a peel first if you want to work on top of the skin (as in acne). It all depends on what you want to fulfill.

I too like microdermabrasion prior to chemical exfoliation. The physical exfoliation will allow for a deeper and more even penetration of the acid. PCA teaches these protocols in their Medical Modalities Class. I have used the combination of microdermabrasion (or dermaplaning) and PCA Peels for lightening hyperpigmentation and reducing fine lines and wrinkles with very reliable and consistent results that clients are very happy with. It's not a treatment combination for clients new to skin care treatments. I would recommend each treatment be done separately to establish a baseline prior to combining them.

Before I perform a chemical peel I almost always perform at least a light exfoliation- I want those clients to see the results that they are paying for