microdermabrasion: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Formal, Technical, Commercial
Quick answer
What does “microdermabrasion” mean?
A cosmetic skin treatment that uses fine crystals or a diamond-tipped wand to gently exfoliate the outermost layer of the skin, aiming to improve its texture and appearance.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A cosmetic skin treatment that uses fine crystals or a diamond-tipped wand to gently exfoliate the outermost layer of the skin, aiming to improve its texture and appearance.
1. A non-invasive cosmetic procedure for skin resurfacing. 2. The process or industry associated with this treatment. 3. (rare) Any process of very fine abrasion.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The term is identical in spelling and usage. Minor differences exist in brand names of machines or marketing phrasing, not in the core term.
Connotations
In both varieties, it connotes a professional, clinical, or luxury spa treatment. It is not a casual, at-home activity.
Frequency
Frequency is similar in both varieties, closely tied to the beauty and wellness industry.
Grammar
How to Use “microdermabrasion” in a Sentence
have/get/undergo + microdermabrasionmicrodermabrasion + for (acne/scars)microdermabrasion + on (face/neck)Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “microdermabrasion” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The clinic does not 'microdermabrade' as a verb; they 'perform microdermabrasion'.
- Her skin was microdermabraded (rare, technical passive).
American English
- The esthetician will microdermabrade the area (professional jargon).
- I got microdermabraded last week (informal).
adverb
British English
- [No standard adverbial form]
American English
- [No standard adverbial form]
adjective
British English
- microdermabrasion treatment
- post-microdermabrasion redness
American English
- microdermabrasion machine
- microdermabrasion gloves
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Marketing for spas, clinics, and skincare brands; a service line item.
Academic
In dermatology or cosmetology research papers comparing treatment efficacy.
Everyday
Discussed when talking about skincare routines, salon visits, or cosmetic procedures.
Technical
Specifying the type of wand, crystal size, vacuum pressure, or treatment protocols.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “microdermabrasion”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “microdermabrasion”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “microdermabrasion”
- Misspelling: 'microdermabration', 'microdermabrasion'.
- Mispronunciation: stressing 'dermAbrasion' instead of 'dermabRAsion'.
- Using as a verb incorrectly: 'I will microdermabrase my face' (non-standard).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is generally described as a mild, non-painful scratching or vibrating sensation. It is much less invasive than traditional dermabrasion.
For professional treatments, it's typically recommended every 2 to 4 weeks, as the skin's renewal cycle is about 30 days. Home kits should be used less frequently, as per instructions.
Microdermabrasion is a mechanical, physical exfoliation using crystals or a diamond tip. A chemical peel uses acids (like glycolic or salicylic acid) to chemically dissolve and remove skin cells.
No, it is designed for very superficial skin concerns like fine lines, dullness, and mild textural issues. Deep scars require more aggressive treatments like laser therapy or deep chemical peels.
A cosmetic skin treatment that uses fine crystals or a diamond-tipped wand to gently exfoliate the outermost layer of the skin, aiming to improve its texture and appearance.
Microdermabrasion is usually formal, technical, commercial in register.
Microdermabrasion: in British English it is pronounced /ˌmaɪ.krəʊ.ˌdɜː.məˈbreɪ.ʒən/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌmaɪ.kroʊ.ˌdɝː.məˈbreɪ.ʒən/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[No common idioms for this specific technical term]”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of MICRO (very small) + DERM (skin) + ABRASION (rubbing/scraping away). So, 'micro-scraping of the skin'.
Conceptual Metaphor
SKIN IS A SURFACE TO BE POLISHED / RENEWAL IS A FRESH LAYER.
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary purpose of microdermabrasion?