Review of the Personal Microderm Home System
Joanna, the Home Microdermabrasion Expert reviews the PMD System
While Youthful Essence has been one of my favorite home microdermabrasion kits for years, I've recently heard of a new product called Personal Microderm System (sold by SkincareRX).
Everyone knows that I've been a keen fan of both office and personal microdermabrasion since 2005 and make it my mission to try new home kits which show great potential. So when reviews of the personal microderm microdermabrasion system started popping up on beauty blogs around the Internet, I thought it's time to try it for myself and see whether it really compares to the many other home tool kits I've been using over the years.
Here's how I got on with it.
I did have reservations about trying this particular dermabrasion system, I must admit. Partly because most of the in depth reviews I've read were from women who had received the product for consideration and the reviews were consistently positive. And partly because of its extraordinary claims.
The Personal Microderm System is a small hand-held machine which does the exfoliation for you and unlike most of the other products on the market it can be used time and time again, with just the exfoliation discs needing to be replaced once in a while.
Go to Official Personal Microderm System Website
As you may already know, I am used to paying for personal microdermabrasion kits which are used once and I don't usually pay over $50 or $60. So the thought of spending around $180 on a home dermabrasion kit made my eyes water. Then I thought of how much I have spent over the years on microdermabrasions (both home treatment and office sessions) and I did the maths on how much I would save in the long term if it really worked. This, together with the good reviews from other women convinced me to bite my lip and get the credit card out.
The system claims to improve skin-tone and texture, and reduce signs of aging such as age spots and fine wrinkles. I also found quite a few reviews from people with acne scarring who found that it did improve their skin very effectively. I have now been using it for around 4 months and here are the results.
How Does Personal Microderm System Work?
The system costs $179 (you can buy the system from SkincareRX). Bearing in mind that this is the most I have ever spent on a home dermabrasion kit, I was looking for some spectacular results. The box included:
- The unit itself (around the same size as an ladyshave).
- Electric cord
- 1 x cap which fits over the larger discs
- 1 x cap which fits over the smaller discs
- 1 x reusable filter
- 5 exfoliating discs
- Instruction CD
The exfoliating discs fit onto the unit and they use the same material (aluminium oxide crystals) as the top-of-the-range professional systems used in clinics -- another factor which persuaded me to give this a try. These discs are the only part of the system which need to be replaced on a regular basis (usually every 3 treatments) and cost around $15 for a pack of six. So the on-going costs are fairly low. The great thing is that these discs come in three sensitivity levels and two sizes:
- Blue - the most gentle exfoliating disc for sensitive skin
- Green - for a deeper exfoliation
- Red - for serious exfoliation. I have not tried these as they are probably too harsh for many people's skin, including mine.
- The discs come in large and small sizes - the larger discs are for areas such as the body and cheeks and the smaller discs are suitable for areas such as the nose and forehead.
How To Use The PMD Kit
Following the instructions, I used the system once a week. I started with the most sensitive disc and made sure that I did not apply too much pressure in the early treatments. This way you can slowly build up the exfoliation without damaging the skin. The official video recommends that you do a skin test the first time you try the system on a small patch of skin, so that you can see whether you have sensitive skin.
Using this home microderm tool kit was a little tricky at first, but after a couple of treatments you start to really get the hang of it, whether you've tried other kits before or not. Some people say that you can see improvements immediately but many others, including myself, found that it took a good 2 or 3 sessions before I could really say that I noticed a difference.
It takes around 15 to 20 minutes maximum per treatment. Here's what I do:
- Cleanse and dry my face thoroughly and make sure that my hair is in a pony-tail.
- I tighten the area to be exfoliated with my fingers, switch the machine on and exfoliate. It is important to keep the skin tight because this means that as well as exfoliating, this product uses a suction technique to encourage the flow of blood and collagen towards the surface. The key is not to over-exfoliate and to keep the unit moving, otherwise you can damage your skin.
- I cover my cheeks, chin and forehead with the larger discs then switch to a smaller disc for the nose area and any others areas where the bone structure prevented a good suction action. As recommended by the manufacturer, I am always very careful to avoid the delicate eye area as this could cause damage.
- After exfoliation, I wash my face again to get rid of the dead cells and use a toner to neutralise the PH balance. I wait five minutes to let the toner dry, then apply a generous amount of skin renewal serum - the manufacturers recommend Boske Molecular Repair or M2 Skin Refinish although they do say that other brands will work too.
- I then apply sunscreen (I do this as standard anyway after any microdermabrasion treatment).
- Lastly, I am always careful to hand-wash the filter inside the machine (you just take off the cap and disc to get to it) to stop dead skin from getting into the vacuum unit. It only takes a couple of minutes you just run it under warm water.
I was extremely careful not to over-do the exfoliation on my first treatment -- I have heard of some people who suffered from very dry skin and even peeling after their treatment and I wanted to avoid this. I have now had four treatments and I agree with those who found a gradual improvement rather than a dramatic one. I am now at the stage where I can really see a difference in the brightness and texture of my skin. It is tempting to apply too much pressure but you really do have to hold back as you can actually break the skin if you are too heavy-handed.
What Does the PMD System Achieve?
This home kit is quite unusual in that it is suitable for the face and other areas of the body such as the hands, elbows and feet. SkincareRX claims it achieves the following:
- Reduce signs of aging such as age spots, fine lines and wrinkles
- Improve the texture and brightness of the skin
- Reduce surface scars such as acne
Despite the good reviews, I was quite skeptical about using the product. It does feel like a big commitment due to the price of the unit and, understandably, I was worried that it would not work. So I was very relieved (and very pleased) when I saw the good results.
The Personal Microderm System does cost more up-front so you have to look at it as an investment and be committed to using it on a regular basis, but you should start to see an improvement after a couple of sessions. Other reviews on beauty blogs that I have read are actually pretty much in line with my own findings. I have also come across quite a few reviews from ladies with acne scarring who say that it has helped them. The great thing about it is that you can also use it on other parts of the body, which makes the price far easier to swallow.
Read more on Personal Microderm System from SkinCareRX
Bottom Line
The PMD kit sold by SkincareRx is a device which uses aluminium oxide crystals to remove dead skin cells, reducing age spots and imperfections and resulting in younger looking skin. One of the key strengths is that it uses the same technology that is used in clinics, so that you can benefit from the same professional results at a fraction of the price. But does it live up to its promises?
- It's an innovative product in that it provides a long-term skin care solution, unlike many other microdermabrasion systems which are designed to be used just once. If used in conjunction with a resurfacing or skin renewal cream, the kit is extremely effective in delivering a smoother and fresher skin-tone as well as tackling problem areas such as acne and age spots.
- Unlike many other types of microdermabrasion treatments, it can be used on other parts of the body too, including elbows, hands and feet, making it much more versatile than other products.
- At around $180 is it also the best microderm system? it does not come cheap, plus you have to buy a cell renewal cream on top of that for best results -- but when comparing costs to other microdermabrasion systems, you have to remember that most other kits on the market are one-time use only. Taking this into account it works out much more cost-effective than its competitors on a medium to long-term basis.
Why Use This Home Microdermabrasion Kit?
Although it can be hard to part with your favourite tried and tested microdermabrasion treatments such as Youthful Essence, the Personal Microderm kit does offer value for money and incredible flexibility to tailor your treatment plan to your own personal skin type and requirements:
- Although you have the high upfront cost of the product, it does work out much cheaper than other products in the long run -- but only if you stick with it.
- The fact that you can also use it on your hands, feet and elbows is an added bonus. Many of us do neglect these areas of our body but they need exfoliation just as much, if not more, than our face.
- The different levels of exfoliation provided by the differently coloured discs means that you can adapt your skincare routine just how you want.
- Not only does it exfoliate your skin, removing the dead cells, but by using suction it also brings the blood supply and collagen towards the surface of the skin, thus enhancing the results.
- This system uses the same aluminium oxide crystal technology that professionals use so this at-home microdermabrasion kit saves you time and money.
Here's what results you can expect to achieve?
- It makes the skin feel much softer and smoother - Rather than the immediate results seen with other types of microdermabrasion treatments, the effect is more gradual and builds up over time, leaving a healthy glow.
- It reduces age and sun spots (on the hands as well as the face), and evens out other blemishes and imperfections.
- Many users report that it works very well in reducing the level of acne and acne scarring if used regularly over time.
- One of the key differences between this kit and other single-use treatments is that many users expect instant results. With the Personal Microderm System, the results build up over time, so some patience is required, although the majority of users agree that it is worth the wait as their skin tone improves with each treatment.
Downsides
Whereas most other dermabrasion kits are used monthly, this home kit should be used once a week for best results, so it does mean that you need to invest a little more time in your skin rejuvenation routine. However, once you've been using it for a few weeks, it does feel like the results get quicker and personally, I don't see this aspect to be a major problem as the enhanced results are worth it.
I am not surprised that the Personal Microderm System is becoming so popular and receives so many great reviews. It may not be cheap but it offers great value for money and delivers what it advertises if used regularly and according to the instructions.
Advertised Results of this Product: Effective at dealing with age spots, skin discolorations and other imperfections; delivers a smooth and even complexion.
What Does the Personal Microderm System Achieve?
Pros
According to the numerous reviews on the Internet, the PMD System is very effective in reducing the appearance of blemishes and imperfections, including acne scarring, as well as making the skin smoother and healthier-looking. Some users report seeing the benefits from the very first treatment although many agree that it takes a few treatments for the full effects to be seen and that the benefits become more apparent the longer it is used. Many users also find it extremely effective at improving the texture on other parts of the body, particularly the hands.
Cons
It is expensive and you run the risk of wasting money if you decide not to continue with it for any reason -- this is a long-term product after all. A few users reported medium to severe dryness and/or peeling.
What Do People Say About It?
Personal Microderm System Reviews from Consumers
- The vast majority of reviews I've read were very positive. My experience with the product has also been a positive one. Many reviewers said that they had reservations about using the product as they were worried that it would be too abrasive, but most felt that their fears were not justified in the end. One woman wrote that "With each treatment, I love the Personal Microderm more and more. I can see a difference in my skin, from the diminishing age spots and freckles to the wrinkles. This system has given me confidence in my skin. I am loving the way my skin feels and looks! ".
- Some women saw an improvement in the tone and texture of their skin from the first treatment, but others said that it took two or three treatments to really see the benefits. So best to be patient.
- Although there is a relatively high up-front cost, many reviewers said that it was worth the price, with one woman writing " It is more of an investment, but trust me, it'll do wonders for your skin.".
- Many reviewers suffering from acne noticed a dramatic improvement in their condition - " I noticed a significant lightening of my acne scars on my cheeks, and I can only imagine with continued usage, what benefit it could have on my skin ".
In a Nutshell
| Overview | ||
|---|---|---|
| What Is It? | Personal Microderm System is a home microdermabrasion system from Age Sciences. | |
| How Much Does It Cost? | Around $180 | |
| Rating from Reviews |
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| Where To Buy It From? |
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| How To Use It | ||
|---|---|---|
| Professional or Personal Kit? | Personal kit (home kit) | |
| Does The Manufacturer Offer Training? What's this? | An instructional CD is supplied with the system, which is also downloadable from their website. | |
| Can Be Used On |
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| How Many Steps Does It Involve? | 5 | |
| How Frequently Can You Use It? |
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| How Long Does It Last For? | Regular treatments are recommended | |
| What To Do After Treatment? |
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| Can You Use Makeup After Treatment? What's this? |
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| Safety & Risks | ||
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| When To Avoid It? |
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| Is It Safe To Use? |  |
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| Side Effects What's this? | Dry skin in some cases, skin can be broken if too much pressure is applied | |
| Can It Irritate Your Skin? What's this? | Skin can be broken if too much pressure is applied | |
| Can It Cause Scarring? What's this? | Skin can be broken if too much pressure is applied, causing a scab to form | |
| Can It Cause Skin Damage? What's this? | |
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| Can It Cause Acne Breakouts? What's this? |  |
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| Can It Cause Bruising? What's this? | |
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| Does It Leave Your Skin Red? What's this? | |
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| Does It Make The Skin Age? What's this? | |
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| Results | ||
|---|---|---|
| How Long Does It Take To See Results? | Sometimes immediately, generally two to three treatments | |
| Is It Effective? | |
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| How Long Do Results Last? What's this? | Ongoing treatment | |
| Does It Help? | ||
|---|---|---|
| Remove Acne Scars? What's this? | |
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| Erase Wrinkles And Fine Lines? What's this? | |
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| Get Rid Of Blotchy Skin? What's this? | |
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| Minimize Enlarged Pores? What's this? | |
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| Eliminate Freckles? What's this? | |
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| Treat Hyperpigmentation? What's this? | |
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| Remove Sun Spots? What's this? | |
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| Even Out Skin Tone? What's this? | |
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| Remove Age Spots? What's this? | |
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| Get Rid Of Stretch Marks? What's this? | |
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| Stimulate Collagen Production? What's this? | |
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| Get Rid Of Blackheads? What's this? | |
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| Unclog Pores? What's this? | |
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| Get Rid Of Whiteheads? What's this? | |
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| Improve Complexion? What's this? | |
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| Restore Dull Skin? What's this? | |
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| Make Skin Smoother? What's this? | |
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| Remove Tattoos? What's this? | |
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| Remove Vergetures? What's this? | |
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| Can You Use System On | ||
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| Rosacea What's this? | |
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| Active Acne What's this? | |
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| Eczema What's this? | |
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| Psoriasis What's this? | |
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| Keratosis What's this? | |
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| Lupus What's this? | |
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| Severe Skin Disorders and Infections What's this? | |
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| Broken or Abraded Skin What's this? | |
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| African American Skin What's this? | |
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| Sensitive Skin What's this? | |
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| Dry Skin What's this? | |
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| Acne-Prone Skin What's this? | |
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| Can You Use The Product After | ||
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| Retin-A What's this? | |
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| Ingredients | ||
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| Sponge What's this? | |
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| Cloth What's this? | |
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| Applicator What's this? (changeable parts) |
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| Crystal Cream What's this? (type of crystals used) |
Aluminum oxide crystals |
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| Brush What's this? | |
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| Vacuum System What's this? | |
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| Pre-care Products What's this? | |
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| Post-care Hydrating Cream What's this? | |
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| Post-care Nurturing Cream What's this? | |
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| Post-care Calming Cream What's this? | |
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| Other Kit Contents What's this? | Unit, power cord, reusable filter, instructional CD, starter kit discs, cap for face, cap for body | |
| Manufacturer | ||
|---|---|---|
| Who Makes It? | Age Sciences | |
| Where Is Age Sciences Located | US | |
| How Long Have Age Sciences Been Making A Home Microderm Kit? | N/A | |
| Specialized In Microdermabrasion Only? | No. Yes |
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| VIP Or Expert Endorsement | |
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| Available In | U.S. - other countries not known | |
| Before And After Pictures | |
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| Microderm Kit Pictures | |
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| Do They Send Out Samples? | Unknown | |
The Official Product Presentation
- Introduction to the Personal Microderm system
- What Professionals are Saying
- What People are Saying
- Why it Works
- Save Time and Money
- What Will It do for Me?
- Results
- Training Video
- There are also testimonials from clients and white papers on the technical aspects of the process
There are several videos available on the SkinCareRX official website, including:
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I Have Micro Derm Abrasion On Scarring?
A: By removing the top layer of skin, micro dermabration evens out skin texture and helps remove superficial scarring. Deeper scars needs more invasive non-surgical techniques, like deep chemical peeling or laser facial resurfacing.
Q: Microdermal Abrasion Is It Recommended For Stretch Marks?
A: Stretch marks appear on your skin as uneven skin tone and texture. By exfoliating the outermost layer of the skin, microbrasion machine evens out skin tone and texture, thus reducing or totally removing stretchmarks.
Q: Does Microderma Make Hyperpigmentation Less Noticeable?
A: Microdermal abrasion tool works on hyperpigmentation. The micro-crystal flow abrades the top layer of the skin where unevenly pigmented skin cells are stuck. Several doctor-performed microdermabrasia sessions are required to even out skin tone and get rid of hyperpigmentation.
Q: What Does Microdermabration Do For Your Face?
A: By resurfacing the top layer of the skin, home microdermabrasia does help the skin. After a full treatment of 6-12 sessions, most people notice significant improvement in skin tone and texture. The face looks younger, feels smoother, and has fewer superficial scars, fine wrinkles, enlarged or clogged pores. More severe skin imperfections require more invasive procedures like laser or chemical peeling. Self microderm abrasions is also not as effective as specialist microdermation.
Q: Is Microderm Safe While On Accutane (Isotretinoin)?
A: Micrdermabrasion is not recommended for patients taking Accutane. This acne treatment works by reducing the amount of oil produced by the skin's sebaceous glands which reduces the skin's ability to recover after body or facial exfoliation. Having microdermal abrasion while on Accutane may cause permanent scarring. This applies to OTC systems and clinic treatment.
Q: What Does Microdermabration Do On Whiteheads?
A: By exfoliating the top layer of the skin, micro dermabration product cleans deep into the pore and removes excess oil and dirt that clog pores - which causes whiteheads. Most whiteheads are removed while the more stubborn ones become less noticeable.
Q: Can Micro Abrasion Be Used For Tattoo Removal?
A: You can use microdermabrasian on tattooed skin with no risk or side effects. This skin resurfacing technique is too mild to remove tattoos.
Q: Does Micro Pearl Abrasion Microdermabasion Work?
A: The Home microdermabrasian cream from Micro Pearl Abrasion is effective for some people and isn't for others. There are many happy customers who say that Micro Pearl Abrasion creams does make their face feel smother and look young. On the other hand, there are some unhappy people who say the kit is either too harsh, causing them skin irritation and breakouts, or not very effective in reducing superficial scars and fine wrinkles. The only way to find out if the kit is effective for you is to try to obtain a free sample and test the formula on your skin.
Q: What Do You Need For Microdermabasion?
A: Professional microbrasion requires a consultation with the specialist who is going to perform it. After that, everything will be taken care of by the medical staff, all you have to do is show up for treatment. At-home micro dermal abrasion kits need to be used according to indications. You may also need a cleansing gel to be used before the exfoliation, a nourishing cream to be applied after the peel and some SPF lotion for the following few weeks.
Q: What Is The Difference Between Microderm Abrasion And Resurface?
A: Laser skin resurfacing is more invasive and also more effective on deeper skin imperfections. Microdermabration gives better results on superficial scars, lines and stretch marks.
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