HoMedics® Ultra Microdermabrasion System - Product Review

It was only a matter of time before microdermabrasion became available via kits. This allows you to clean, exfoliate and moisturize your skin at home as opposed to having it done professionally. For those who could never afford microdermabrasion, home kits are becoming more popular, allowing you to apply treatments at your convenience with no appointments to schedule or keep. You can easily go through the entire process in 20 to 30 minutes.

I did some research first before deciding which brand to try. Some companies require you to buy the initial kit and subscribe to automatic deliveries (of refills) when you place your order. Depending on how much and how often you plan do treatments, this may not be the best option. I finally chose the HoMedics® Ultra cleansing and microdermabrasion system as I have been pleased with other products from this company, it is cheaper than other systems, and they do not automatically enroll you for refills. There is an order form at the back of the instruction booklet so you can reorder when you need to.

My skin is typically dry and sensitive, especially in the winter months. I was reluctant to try it in January and February but that's what I ended up doing. I would like to use home microdermabrasion throughout the year and needed to see if this was possible. Not only did I use it on my face, I tried it on my upper chest area too. You can also use it on your hands if you wish but I didn't feel the need.

HoMedics® 5-in-1 system allows you to cleanse, refine, exfoliate, tone and moisturize your skin with a rechargeable appliance, attachments and included facial creams. The kit includes the appliance, a cradle for charging, five attachments, two additional microdermabrasion sponges (three total,) instructions and 2 fl. oz each of facial cleanser, microdermabrasion cream, facial cream and toner. I also received a plastic case for storing the attachments and nylon bag for the creams and extras. The packaging is impressive and provides extra information and instructions to use the system.

Facial Cleanser

You'll need to begin with a clean face and this is where to start. The facial cleanser is clear and unscented so there's less possibility for facial irritation. I always start with a wet face and add the cleanser to the brush attachment.  The brush spins, cleaning as it goes. It feels very good and relaxing.

Microdermabrasion Cream

The microdermabrasion cream is peach-colored and the grapefruit scent is very pleasant. It is a little gritty to touch but is very effective when you exfoliate with the sponge attachment. The instructions tell you to put a thin layer of cream on the sponge and dot it onto your forehead, cheeks and chin before turning on the appliance. It's best to begin slowly and increase the speed of the appliance as per instructions. I can't feel much exfoliating action but that's exactly what it's doing -- more than I imagined! This process can get a little sloppy so it's important to avoid the eye area.

Facial Toner

The facial toner is blue like many brands. It has a very light scent and is not unpleasant like many others I have tried. I always use a cotton pad to apply it evenly and in problem areas. The first thing I noticed was that it didn't pick up any additional dirt and/or oil from my face, probably because the previous processes left my face squeaky-clean.

Facial Cream

The final step is to use the roller attachment and massage in the facial cream. My face and upper chest were very dry after the first three steps so this was crucial to me. The cream is white, unscented and very effective. I was very impressed with the quality of the product. After several microdermabrasion treatments, I found it necessary to use the cream on my "off" days to prevent dry spots from appearing on my skin. This cream worked very well and often I just applied it with my fingers.

Additional Features

The appliance comes with large and small suction cup attachments. The directions tell you the best areas to use the different sizes and also instruct you to avoid using on areas where your skin is thin, pimples, blemishes, sunburned or broken skin or inflamed areas. I tried both size suction cups twice and really didn't see any benefits.

A mister is attached to the appliance. I didn't use this feature for two reasons. One, I didn't feel any use for it, and two, I have read a couple of complaints about the appliance not working after a few uses. This could be due to getting the appliance wet during use. The mister is part of the appliance and you will need to fill it with water, which would be very hard to do without dripping on it. So far, I haven't had any problems with the appliance breaking.

My Results

Initially, it was a commitment for me. I did full treatments for five days the first week (three days on, two off, two on) because that is what my schedule would allow. After each treatment, my face was a little red but recovered quickly. I did appreciate the healthy, youthful glow. My skin felt very clean and smoother than usual. What I didn't like was that it was necessary for me to apply the facial cream every day (sometimes 2-3 times a day) to combat dryness. In the summer, that problem may disappear.

After my first week, I continued the home microdermabrasion treatments at a rate of once a week, sometimes skipping the toner. My blemishes were greatly reduced, as were some fine lines, particularly on my forehead. A dark spot on my cheek which I had burned with a curling iron (the spot stayed after the scab fell off) was faded. Unfortunately, I didn't notice any reduction in my pores. My chest area showed some improvement with lines but this is something I will only do in the summer months as it is a hassle to do that area.

If you wish to try home microdermabrasion, I can recommend the HoMedics® Ultra Microdermabrasion system because I found it beneficial and plan to keep using it. I think it will be great to use throughout the summer months before applying a self-tanner. The price was very competitive at $39.99 and another $12.50 (plus shipping) will buy another 4 oz. of the microdermabrasion cream and 3 more sponge attachments when needed. It's much cheaper than other systems.

Home Microdermabrasion Tips

- Read all of the instructions first. Be sure to charge the appliance for at least 16 hours prior to use. I ended up charging it 24 hours before using it.

- Your skin will be more sensitive to sunlight so limit exposure after treatments.

- Use with care. The solutions can fling into your hair and eyes. Avoid getting the microdermabrasion cream in your eyes. It's gritty and very irritating.

- Check with a doctor first if you have severe acne, rosacea, very sensitive skin or any other adverse skin conditions.

- Add water if your faces becomes dry during treatment.

- If your skin is irritable, make sure you rinse off the facial cleanser before using the home microdermabrasion cream.

- It may be necessary to use the facial moisturizing cream even on "off" days when you're not using the treatments.

- Wear a shower cap to avoid getting the creams into your hair.

- Rinse your skin in shower if possible.

More Skin Care Reviews

Product reviews reflect one person's experience and are not indicative of the results you may experience.