Figuring out how to work quickly with this tool while also not allowing the suction to pull on the skin for too long takes some getting used to, but it was pretty easy once I got going.
With each pass over the skin, I noticed some redness instantly. I didn't experience any pain or irritation, and you definitely can't feel the disc scratching on your face. Around the nose (where I was most keen to exfoliate my blackheads off) was the trickiest area to navigate.
The whole treatment took two to three minutes, and after applying my hydrating skin care, the redness subsided within an hour. Results-wise, I got the promised glow, and without any sensitivity the following day.
Here's my mug an hour after the treatment wearing only skin care. And sitting in good light. I wouldn't play you like that.


I haven't used this tool consistently enough to be able to comment on the long term results of at-home microdermabrasion.
Everyone's skin is different, but I can see how being able to do at-home microdermabrasion fortnightly or monthly could especially benefit oily skin types or those with congested, dull skin. (The brand says you can use it weekly, but I personally wouldn't, just in case.)
Is At-Home Microdermabrasion Safe?
At-home microdermabrasion is intimidating, but if you follow the instructions and start with the lowest settings and discs, using a clinical-grade tool like the PMD Beauty Personal Microderm Classic - Blush is safe.
There is no downtime, no pain and minimal side effects - it is an exfoliation treatment, so some pinkness in the hours afterwards is normal.
But yes, at-home microdermabrasion may lead to bruising, increased redness, tenderness and sensitivity if you're not careful. I'm talking things like using a disc that's too coarse for your skin, applying too much pressure, holding the device against an area of skin for too long or repeatedly suctioning on high settings.
This is one of those things where it's really bloody important to carefully read the instructions, watch video tutorials (did I mention I made one you can watch above?) and practice the technique on your arm before starting on your face.
If you have sensitive skin that throws a tantrum with skin treatments and some active ingredients, this tool probably isn't for you.
And please, START LOW AND SLOW like a tender slow-cooked rack of lamb. Going faster or using the coarsest disc straight up will not get you results faster. It will eff up your face, though.
Microdermabrasion at Home vs in-Clinic.
My honest opinion? I don't really think any at-home skincare tool can deliver the same results as an in-clinic treatment, or at least, not in the same space of time.
Yes, professional microdermabrasion treatments are more expensive than at-home devices, but they usually involve a 30 to 60-minute full service skin treatment combined with other steps like LED or cold laser to aid the healing process. You're also paying for the dermal clinician or dermatologist's professional expertise.
That doesn't mean at-home skincare tools aren't legit, they're just not as powerful as professional machines. This means you'll need to use a high-quality device (aka not a $12 one from a random corner of the internet) consistently over a longer period of time to see comparable results.
So, will I keep using the PMD Personal Microderm? Sure, every now and again to help with the appearance of the pores on my nose. If I can be bothered. But I think at-home microdermabrasion is a bit too hardcore for my sensitive baby face.
But if you like trying new skincare treatments at home and have more robust skin that LOVES the tingle of strong active ingredients and peels, you'll probably enjoy using this tool. A lot.
That brings us to the end of my TED Talk on at-home microdermabrasion. Now, it’s up to you to decide whether to add this gadget to your skincare routine!