During the winter, my skin tends to get dry and dehydrated. That’s the time for extra strength exfoliation, which is essentially what microdermabrasion is. So I made an appointment at Finesse Day Spa, one of my favorite day spas in New York City. I get the standard crystal microdermabrasion (watch the You Tube video below to see how the process works), where tiny crystals are blasted onto the skin to exfoliate layers of dead skin cells, scar tissue, fine lines and acne marks.
A newer technique is diamond microdermabrasion, which uses a diamond tipped instrument instead of crystals, but I haven’t tried it yet. And there are a number of home microdermabrasion products on the market, but for the best results I’d go to a professional.
What I love most about microdermabrasion is that you see the results almost immediately, especially when it comes to reducing fine lines. It’s not painful, although you may feel mild irritation or stinging in more sensitive areas of your face. At Finesse Day Spa, extraction removal comes with the 60-minute micro session ($120-$140). Not all microdermabrasion sessions include extractions but I love to get my pores unclogged.
To keep my skin glowing even in the dead of winter, my Finesse aesthetician, Anetta, suggested I come in every six to eight weeks for micro or a European facial. She also imparted the following skincare tips:
1) Never use products containing alcohol on your face. Alcohol dries the skin.
2) Salicylic acid products can also cause dryness, but glycolic acid products soothe the skin.
3) Eat salmon. The essential fatty oils are good for the skin.
4) Drinking wine in moderation (no more than one 5 oz. glass per day) won’t damage your skin. Actually, red wine contains antioxidants that prevent cellular damage in the body.
5) Exfoliate and moisturize. Dermalogica offers an assortment of products suited for all skin types, from sensitive and acne-prone to sun-damaged and dry.
6) Microdermabrasion and Dermalogica’s Daily Microfoliant help eliminate pesky in-grown hairs under the chin.
Image credit: Finesse Day Spa


[...] That’s the time for extra strength exfoliation, which is essentially what microdermabrasion is. So I made an appointment at Finesse Day Spa, one of my favorite day spas in New York City. I get the standard crystal microdermabrasion … Micro Derm Abrasion News [...]
I think microdermabrasion is great! For an at-home option you should check out the microdermabrasion cream from Garden Girl, a natural skin care company. It’s packed with natural ingredients and you can see results in just a couple of uses. Plus, it has an eco-friendly refill option and very affordable. You can find them online at http://www.gardengirlskincare.com.
[...] I need radiant skin. – Hot Mama Daily [...]
[...] That’s the time for extra strength exfoliation, which is essentially what microdermabrasion is. So I made an appointment at Finesse Day Spa, one of my favorite day spas in New York City. I get the standard crystal microdermabrasion … Micro Derm Abrasion News [...]
Oh I so needed this post…my normally worry free, no makeup required face is not reacting well to this cold weather! It has broken out in a rash of tiny bumps on my forehead and cheeks! My cheeks are red as well. I’m going to try these tips and products(Thanks Jessica!)