Microdermabrasion is a popular procedure to partially or completely remove the dead outermost surface of the skin (stratum corneum) by light abrasion. It is often used to treat sun-damaged skin or reduce the appearance of scars or dark spots. Microdermabrasion does not require anesthetic and usually is not painful for the patient. A variety of methods are available for microdermabrasion treatments, including mechanical abrasion from devices that force air with highly abrasive crystals onto the skin. The crystals act as an abrasive to remove the surface skin and debris. New, fresh skin is then revealed, giving the patient a clean and rejuvenated look.