Microdermabrasion Microdermabrasion is a form of gently removing the outer layers of skin with the use of a mild abrasive.  In the office we use a microdermabrasion machine.  It may have a diamond bit or crystals.  There is skin cleansing and preparation done before the procedure.  The procedure is deeper than what you will get with over-the-counter products.  There is no down time required for microdermabrasion.  It is usually performed every week for five to six weeks with a maintenance procedure done once a month after that.