Katarzyna Kordus

A survey of the motives for selecting the types of microdermabrasion and the opinion on their effectiveness in cosmetology practice

Microdermabrasion is one of the most popular methods of skin exfoliation in beauty salons. At present, three variants of microdermabrasion are used: diamond, corundum and hydradermabrasion. They differ in the type of abrasive material, principle of application, and intensity. The motives driving Polish cosmetologists at choosing a particular type of microdermabrasion for their practice had not yet been studied. Aim: To study the frequency of using particular types of microdermabrasion among cosmetologists, and their opinions regarding the differences in mode of action, effectiveness and safety of particular techniques that may determine their choice. Material and methods: A questionnaire survey of 100 Polish cosmetologists who perform at least one type of microdermabrasion. Results: The most frequently used method of exfoliation was the diamond microdermabrasion, as indicated by 94 out of 100 respondents (94%). Using hydrodermabrasion was admitted by 17% respondents, and corundum microdermabrasion by 15%. Among other techniques of skin exfoliation, cavitation (92%), chemical peeling (78%), and herbal peeling (21%) were used by the respondents. Of the microdermabrasion techniques, study participants rated corundum microdermabrasion as most effective, followed by diamond microdermabrasion, while hydradermabrasion was considered least effective. Major motives for selecting diamond microdermabrasion for their practice as indicated by the cosmetologists were: big demand of customers ease of application and profitability, for hydradermabrasion sanitary advantages, safety and ease of application, while for corundum microdermabrasion – sanitary advantages, effectiveness and attractiveness to the customers. Conclusions: The technique of skin exfoliation most frequently used by Polish cosmetologists is diamond microdermabrasion. Corundum microdermabrasion is the least popular technique in spite of its highest effectiveness as perceived by the users.