It's my understanding that microdermabrasion is really for the purpose of eliminating fine lines. The idea is that if you remove or break up your first layer of skin (the stratum corneum), the body thinks you have a mild injury like a scratch or something and replaces the lost skin cells with new and healthy ones. This supposedly removes visible imperfections like sun damage, mild acne, and fine lines.

Also, since you are removing a layer of skin, your lotions, etc will work better because you can penetrate more deeply.

I've never done it. But I imagine it can help over time. IF you're not seeing results, it may be that they're not penetrating deeply enough, not removing enough skin, or that you're a bit impatient.

Honestly, if all you want is smoothness, I have found amazing results with this $5 Sephora pore cleansing pad.

http://www.sephora.com/precision-pore-cleansing-pad-P262041

I am not a huge huge fan of scraping off skin, and I'd prefer to do it chemically with something gentle like lactic acid. I really really like this dermalogica one, and it's sort of changed my life a bit. Mind you, I do this ONCE A WEEK. Don't overdo it!

http://www.amazon.com/Dermalogica-Gentle-Cream-Exfoliant-2-5/dp/B000PKUZ5U

Best of luck!

Anonymous wrote:Well bless you. I hadn't worn a liquid foundation in 12 years because I couldn't find one that didn't turn to soup on my face in the summer humidity.

Someone could definitely have a side job as an interwebs beauty maven. Jeff should give your own corner from which to hold forth.

Thank you so much. I'm so glad I could help and spread the Lisa Eldridge love!

Let me know if you need any more help!