Chemical Peels
Deeper exfoliation for more significant skin concerns.
Reveal fresher, brighter skin with microdermabrasion, a gentle yet effective exfoliation treatment that removes dead skin cells and stimulates cell renewal.
6+ Treatments
45-60 Minutes
24 Hours
Very Low
Not Required
From £65
Does your skin look dull and tired no matter how much sleep you get or water you drink? That greyish, lacklustre complexion isn't your imagination—it's the buildup of dead skin cells sitting on the surface, blocking your skin's natural radiance. While your expensive serums struggle to penetrate this barrier, microdermabrasion removes it entirely.
Microdermabrasion is a mechanical exfoliation treatment using a crystal system to remove accumulated dead skin cells. The procedure buffs away the dull surface layer while suction removes loosened debris. Results are immediate—brighter, smoother skin with enhanced product absorption.
Microdermabrasion is one of the most straightforward yet effective skin treatments available at Mode Laser Skin Clinic. It's been a staple of professional skincare for decades because it works—delivering immediate, visible results with virtually no downtime. If you've been underwhelmed by home exfoliation products or are looking for a gentle introduction to professional skin treatments, microdermabrasion is an excellent place to start.
Understanding How Microdermabrasion Works:
Your skin naturally renews itself every 28 days or so, with new cells forming in the deeper layers and gradually migrating to the surface. But as these cells reach the surface and die, they don't always shed efficiently. They accumulate, creating a dull, rough layer that makes your skin look tired and prevents skincare products from penetrating effectively.
Microdermabrasion physically removes this dead cell layer through controlled exfoliation. Kathryn uses a wand that sprays crystals onto the skin under controlled pressure which abrades the skin surface while suction removes the loosened dead skin cells. Removing the dead skin cells reveals fresher, brighter skin.
What Microdermabrasion Can Improve:
• Dull, tired-looking skin — The most common reason clients book microdermabrasion. By removing the dead cell layer, your skin's natural radiance shines through immediately.
• Rough, uneven texture — If your skin feels bumpy or rough, or if makeup sits badly, microdermabrasion smooths the surface for a more refined texture.
• Congested pores and blackheads — The suction component helps extract debris from pores, while regular treatments prevent the buildup that leads to congestion.
• Fine lines and early aging signs — While not as dramatic as some treatments, regular microdermabrasion stimulates mild collagen production and keeps skin looking fresher.
• Superficial hyperpigmentation — Very light pigmentation in the uppermost skin layers can be improved, though deeper pigmentation needs laser treatment.
• Minor acne scarring — Surface-level scarring may improve with repeated treatments, though deeper scars benefit more from micro-needling or peels.
• Product absorption — After microdermabrasion, your skincare products can finally penetrate properly, making them work more effectively.
What Microdermabrasion Cannot Do:
It's important to have realistic expectations. Microdermabrasion is a surface treatment, which means:
• It cannot treat deep wrinkles or significant aging
• It won't remove deep acne scars
• It won't dramatically improve deep pigmentation
• It's not a substitute for chemical peels or laser when deeper treatment is needed
For these concerns, Kathryn may recommend alternative or complementary treatments. Microdermabrasion excels at maintenance and mild improvement—it's the 'keep things looking good' treatment rather than the 'dramatic transformation' treatment.
Single Treatment vs. Treatment Course:
Microdermabrasion can be approached in two ways:
• Single treatments — Perfect for a one-off glow boost before an event, or as an occasional refresh when your skin needs it. Many clients book sporadically whenever their skin looks dull.
• Treatment courses — For specific concerns like texture improvement, mild scarring, or persistent dullness, a course of 4-6 treatments spaced 2-4 weeks apart delivers cumulative results.
• Monthly maintenance — Many clients make microdermabrasion part of their ongoing skincare routine, booking monthly treatments to maintain consistently bright, smooth skin.
Combining Microdermabrasion with Other Treatments:
Microdermabrasion plays well with other treatments:
• Before chemical peels — Microdermabrasion removes the surface barrier, allowing peel acids to penetrate more evenly
• Before facials — Enhances product absorption during facial treatments
• Between laser sessions — Maintains skin between more intensive treatments
• With LED therapy — Light therapy penetrates more effectively on freshly exfoliated skin
Kathryn at Mode Laser Skin Clinic can advise on the best treatment combinations for your goals.
Why Professional Microdermabrasion Beats Home Tools:
You can buy home microdermabrasion devices and scrubs, but professional treatment offers several advantages:
• Stronger, more effective exfoliation — Professional equipment removes more dead skin than home devices safely can
• Adjustable intensity — Kathryn can increase or decrease intensity based on different areas of your face and your skin's sensitivity
• Proper technique — Even exfoliation across the entire face without missing areas or over-treating sensitive zones
• Integrated skincare — Professional treatment includes proper cleansing, exfoliation, and finishing products
• Expert assessment — Kathryn can identify concerns you might miss and recommend appropriate treatments
Kathryn's Approach to Microdermabrasion:
With 20+ years of skincare experience, Kathryn has performed countless microdermabrasion treatments. She adjusts technique based on your skin type, concerns, and sensitivity—there's no one-size-fits-all approach. Whether you're after a quick glow-up before an event or want to establish a regular maintenance routine, she'll tailor treatment to your needs.
Individual sessions provide immediate improvement. For ongoing skin maintenance, monthly treatments are popular. For specific concerns, 4-6 sessions may be recommended.
No. Most clients find it comfortable, describing a scratching sensation and mild suction. It's often compared to a cat's tongue licking your face.
No significant downtime. You may have mild redness for a few hours but can apply makeup and continue your day normally.
Yes. Microdermabrasion pairs well with chemical peels, facials, and other skin treatments. It can enhance product penetration.
Often yes, as the intensity can be adjusted. However, very sensitive or reactive skin may be better suited to other treatments.
If any of these sound familiar, this treatment could be right for you.
Skin looks dull and tired even after a good night's sleep
Microdermabrasion removes the dead cell layer hiding your natural radiance
Rough, uneven texture that makes makeup sit badly
Professional exfoliation creates a smooth canvas for makeup application
Congested pores and recurring blackheads
Treatment unclogs pores and helps prevent future congestion
Want a quick skin refresh with no downtime
Walk in on your lunch break, leave with glowing skin ready for the world
Kathryn will assess your skin, discuss your concerns, and recommend whether a single treatment or a course would be most beneficial. She'll explain what results to expect.
No special preparation needed. Arrive with clean skin—no makeup. Avoid harsh exfoliants for a few days before treatment.
A diamond-tip wand is passed over your skin with gentle suction. You'll feel a scratching sensation—often compared to a cat's tongue! Treatment takes 45-60 minutes including cleansing and moisturising.
Your skin may be slightly pink for a few hours. You can apply makeup and continue your day immediately. Your skin will feel smooth and refreshed.
Immediate improvement—your skin looks brighter and feels smoother straight away. For ongoing results, monthly maintenance treatments are popular. A course of 4-6 treats specific concerns.
Not sure if microdermabrasion is enough for your concerns? Even if home exfoliation hasn't helped, professional treatment works at a different level. Without proper assessment, you won't know whether gentler or deeper treatment would be more effective. Kathryn will assess your skin during a free consultation and recommend accordingly.
The moment your treatment ends, you'll notice the difference. By removing the layer of dead, dull cells that's been sitting on your skin's surface, microdermabrasion reveals the fresher, more luminous skin hiding underneath. Many clients at Mode Laser Skin Clinic describe their post-treatment glow as looking 'lit from within.' Finally, the brightness you've been chasing with serums becomes a reality.
If your skin feels rough, bumpy, or uneven—or if your makeup never seems to sit right—microdermabrasion addresses the surface irregularities causing these issues. After treatment, your skin feels silk-smooth, and makeup glides on effortlessly, lasting longer throughout the day. The rough surface is buffed away. Buffed skin creates the perfect canvas for makeup application.
Unlike more intensive treatments, you can literally have microdermabrasion during your lunch break and return to work with makeup applied. Any mild pinkness fades within hours, and there's no peeling, flaking, or visible healing process. Your skin just looks better, immediately. Even if you have plans that evening, treatment fits seamlessly into your day.
Microdermabrasion is often described as feeling like a cat's tongue licking your face—unusual, perhaps, but not painful. There's no need for numbing cream or anaesthesia. Most clients find the experience oddly satisfying, watching dead skin being buffed away.
Because microdermabrasion is a mechanical exfoliation (rather than chemical), and because the intensity can be adjusted, it's gentle enough for most skin types—including those who can't tolerate peels or more aggressive treatments. Kathryn will adjust the technique to suit your specific skin sensitivity.
That expensive serum you've been using? After microdermabrasion, it can actually penetrate. By removing the dead cell barrier that blocks product absorption, microdermabrasion makes every product in your routine work more effectively. Many clients find they use less product and see better results.
Deeper exfoliation for more significant skin concerns.
Address aging, sun damage, and overall skin quality.
Stimulate collagen for texture and scarring concerns.
Address active breakouts and congested skin.
View before and after photos.
Book your free consultation with Kathryn to discover if microdermabrasion is right for your skin.
Mode Laser Skin Clinic — Based within Essington Clinic