Is Microdermabrasion Dead? Or Just Changing Shape?

Every few months in our industry, an old favourite gets dragged back into the spotlight for a bit of public debate. Recently, it was microdermabrasion’s turn.

A post in the Beauty Therapists Australia – Industry Professionals group asked:

“Those who have microdermabrasion — are you finding this is still a requested treatment? Are people drifting away from standard micro and swinging back towards peels or preferring Hydrafacial results?”

The responses? Let’s just say… they were divided.

Camp One: ‘Micro Is Outdated’

Some therapists were blunt — they believe microdermabrasion is not just outdated, but potentially harmful.

“Micro is 💩 for the skin and it irks me it’s still taught in the diploma. Absolutely nobody needs this kind of exfoliation on their skin — period. If we want to do better for our clients, it starts with us getting educated ourselves, educating them, and offering alternatives.” – Mimi Nguyen (18 likes)

This camp is advocating for redirecting investment into peel ranges or tech that tackles deeper, more specific skin concerns — rather than sticking with what they feel is a one-dimensional, mechanical exfoliation.

Camp Two: ‘My Clients Still Love It’

On the flip side, some therapists aren’t ready to retire their machines just yet.

“I love my micro machine, I do a micro add-on pretty much with every facial. I’ve tried other add-ons, but people really love the feel and exfoliation the micro does.” – Tina Jovanski (4 likes)

“I’m doing at least 2–3 micros a week. Either on their own or upgraded into a facial. I have a diamond machine — the heads are cheap to replace, and unless it’s a returning client, I keep it for them.” – Katrina Gereieg (3 likes)

Here, micro isn’t the hero treatment, but it’s a steady earner — often packaged as an add-on or upgrade to enhance a client’s facial experience.

Camp Three: ‘It’s There, But I Redirect’

Then there’s the middle ground — therapists who keep it on the menu for familiarity, but pivot clients into something more advanced once they’re in the door.

“I have it on my menu as everyone knows what it is. New clients can book it, but then I suggest another treatment when they arrive and explain why it’s better. I’ve literally done one micro in four years.” – Joanne Skinner (3 likes)

This approach uses the familiarity of microdermabrasion to capture bookings — but uses the consultation process to upsell or educate toward other treatments.

So… Is Microdermabrasion Dead?

The answer isn’t black and white. Micro is clearly still alive in some treatment rooms — particularly for loyal clients who enjoy the tactile feel of a physical exfoliation. But industry-wide, there’s a definite trend towards chemical peels, combination treatments, and multi-step facials like Hydrafacial that promise more targeted results.

The bigger question might be: Is microdermabrasion evolving into a “gateway” treatment rather than a go-to skin solution?

For some salons, it’s a relic. For others, it’s an easy add-on. And for a few, it’s a marketing hook that gets clients in the door — even if they leave having had something completely different.

What’s certain is that treatments don’t really “die” in this industry. They shift, they niche down, and they find their audience. Micro’s future might not be on the hero in the treatment room… but it’s far from gone altogether.