Which layer of the skin is primarily affected by microdermabrasion treatments?

Microdermabrasion treatments primarily target the stratum corneum, which is the outermost layer of the epidermis. This layer is composed of dead skin cells that are continuously being shed and replaced. During microdermabrasion, fine crystals or a diamond-tipped wand is used to exfoliate the skin's surface, helping to remove these dead cells and promote cell turnover.

By focusing on the stratum corneum, microdermabrasion can improve skin texture, reduce the appearance of fine lines, and enhance the overall radiance of the skin. This process effectively stimulates the skin’s natural recovery processes, leading to smoother and more rejuvenated skin.

Other layers, such as the dermis, stratum lucidum, and hypodermis, play vital roles in skin structure and function but are not significantly affected by microdermabrasion, as the treatment specifically aims to treat the highly superficial layer rather than penetrate deeper layers of the skin.