Kendal Microdermabrasion Machine Review: Features, Pros, Cons and Safety
Kendal microdermabrasion machines are tabletop diamond-tip devices sold online for use in salons and at home. They look much like the equipment used in beauty clinics, which is exactly why many buyers want to know whether they are safe and worthwhile for personal use.
Part of our guide to facial treatments. Start with: Ultimate Guide Microdermabrasion: What to Know
Kendal microdermabrasion machines are diamond-tip devices that combine an abrasive tip with adjustable vacuum suction to remove the outer layer of dead skin cells. Retail listings for common models describe stainless steel wands, several diamond tips of different sizes for the face and body, and replaceable cotton filters. In the right hands they can improve dullness and rough texture, much like a basic salon microdermabrasion. However, the suction is stronger than on most handheld home gadgets, so misuse can cause redness, bruising and broken capillaries. They suit experienced users with resilient skin, not sensitive or acne-prone skin, and they will not fix deep scars or wrinkles.
In short: a capable surface exfoliation machine for careful users, but more powerful and less forgiving than simple handheld devices.
The American Academy of Dermatology describes microdermabrasion as a minimally invasive treatment that can refresh skin and improve mild concerns, with results that are subtle and usually need a series of sessions.
This review explains how Kendal machines work, the features listed by sellers, who they suit, pros and cons, safe technique, aftercare and the alternatives worth comparing before you buy.
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Where to Buy the Kendal Microdermabrasion Machine and Similar Options on Amazon
On This Page
- How a Kendal Microdermabrasion Machine Works
- Features Listed for Common Kendal Models
- Who a Kendal Machine Suits and Who Should Avoid It
- Pros and Cons
- What Results to Expect
- How to Use a Diamond Microdermabrasion Machine Safely
- Cleaning, Hygiene and Maintenance
- What Buyers Commonly Mention
- Alternatives to a Kendal Machine
- Dos and Don’ts
- Honest Limits
- When to See a Dermatologist
- Questions People Ask
- The Bottom Line
What to Know First
- Kendal machines use diamond tips plus adjustable vacuum suction.
- Listings describe several tip sizes and replaceable cotton filters.
- They work on surface texture and dullness only.
- Suction is the main source of risk and must be kept low at first.
- Not suitable for sensitive skin, rosacea or active acne.
- Space sessions out and always wear sunscreen afterwards.
- Professional treatment is stronger and more controlled.
How a Kendal Microdermabrasion Machine Works
Diamond microdermabrasion uses a wand fitted with a tip coated in fine diamond particles. As the wand glides across the skin, the rough tip buffs away dead cells while vacuum suction draws the skin slightly into the tip and pulls the loosened debris into the machine, where a filter catches it.
Unlike crystal microdermabrasion, there are no loose particles to spray or clean up. Diamond tips are also reusable when cleaned properly, which keeps running costs down compared with disposable discs. The strength of the treatment depends on three things: how coarse the tip is, how strong the suction is set and how slowly the wand moves. Kendal machines let you change the tip and adjust the suction, which gives flexibility but also more room for error.
Kendal sells several similar machines under different model codes, and features are described by retail listings rather than a detailed maker website. We have not tested these machines. Check the exact listing, included manual and electrical rating for your country before you buy.
Features Listed for Common Kendal Models
The table below summarises features commonly described in retail listings for Kendal diamond microdermabrasion machines. Exact contents vary between models and sellers.
| Feature | Typical listing description |
|---|---|
| Type | Tabletop diamond microdermabrasion machine |
| Wands | Stainless steel handpieces |
| Tips | Several diamond tips in different sizes for face and body |
| Suction | Adjustable vacuum with a gauge on the machine |
| Filters | Replaceable cotton filters to catch skin debris |
| Variants | Some models add extra functions, such as a 2-in-1 design |
| Intended users | Marketed for salon and home use |
Because the machine has a suction gauge, you can see and control the level. That is useful, but it also means you can set it much higher than your skin can safely handle. The safest approach is to treat the maximum setting as something you will rarely, if ever, use. Different areas of the face also tolerate different levels: thicker skin on the forehead and chin usually copes better than thinner skin on the cheeks, near the nose and around the eyes, so many practitioners lower the suction as they move to more delicate areas.
Who a Kendal Machine Suits and Who Should Avoid It
Diamond microdermabrasion is a physical treatment, so skin type and experience decide whether it is a good idea.
| Person or skin | Suitable? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Experienced user, resilient normal skin | Yes, with care | Start with low suction and fine tips |
| Oily skin with rough texture | Often yes | May help skin feel smoother |
| Beginner with no guidance | Caution | A gentler handheld device may be safer to start |
| Sensitive skin | Usually no | Suction and friction often cause redness |
| Rosacea or visible broken capillaries | No | Suction can make them worse |
| Active acne or infection | No | Can spread bacteria and irritate |
| Deeper skin tones | Caution | Irritation can leave dark marks |
If you are not sure whether your skin can take physical exfoliation, our guide on how often to exfoliate sensitive skin explains safer limits.
Pros and Cons
These points are based on seller descriptions and on how diamond microdermabrasion works in general.
- Pro: adjustable suction and interchangeable tips give real control.
- Pro: tip sizes for face and body in one kit.
- Pro: no loose crystals to clean up.
- Pro: similar principle to basic salon diamond microdermabrasion.
- Con: stronger and less forgiving than simple handheld devices.
- Con: limited official documentation compared with major brands.
- Con: filters and tips need replacing and cleaning.
- Con: incorrect use can bruise skin or break capillaries.
- Con: electrical safety and plug type vary between listings.
The machine’s power is both its main selling point and its main risk. A careful user can get smooth, fresh-looking skin; an impatient one can leave marks that take weeks to fade. Compared with branded handheld devices, you also get less guidance: instructions tend to be brief, and there is rarely a training disc or beginner mode. That makes a slow, cautious start even more important.
What Results to Expect
Microdermabrasion only works on the outer layer of skin. That limits both the risk and the reward.
- Immediately: smoother feel, brighter look and some pinkness.
- After several spaced sessions: more even texture and a better base for makeup.
- Possibly: slight softening of very shallow marks and roughness.
- Not expected: removal of deep wrinkles, deep acne scars, melasma or loose skin.
The AAD’s microdermabrasion overview describes results as subtle and best for mild concerns. Our guide on what microdermabrasion is good for covers which concerns respond and which do not.
How to Use a Diamond Microdermabrasion Machine Safely
These steps reflect common guidance for diamond microdermabrasion. They are general precautions, not a substitute for training or the manual that comes with your machine.
Read the manual and check the plug
Make sure the machine suits your country’s power supply and that all parts are clean and intact.
Patch test on a small area
Try a fine tip at the lowest suction on the jawline and wait a day.
Cleanse and dry the skin fully
Remove all makeup and oil so the tip glides evenly.
Use the finest tip and low suction
Increase suction only in small steps and only if the skin stays comfortable.
Glide in single, quick passes
Hold the skin taut, keep the wand moving and do not go over the same area repeatedly.
Avoid delicate areas
Stay away from the eyelids, lips, broken skin and any visible capillaries.
Moisturise and protect
Apply a bland moisturiser, then use broad-spectrum sunscreen daily and wait before repeating.
Change the filter as often as the manual advises and clean the tips after every session. A clogged filter weakens suction unpredictably, and a dirty tip can introduce bacteria to freshly exfoliated skin.
Cleaning, Hygiene and Maintenance
Because the tips touch freshly exfoliated skin, hygiene matters as much as technique. A clean machine gives more consistent suction and lowers the risk of infection.
- Clean tips after each use as described in the manual, then let them dry fully.
- Replace cotton filters regularly; never run the machine without a filter.
- Wipe the wand and tubing and check for cracks or loose fittings.
- Store the machine covered, away from steam and water splashes.
- Keep tips for one person only and never share them.
If the suction feels weaker or stronger than usual, stop and check the filter and tubing before continuing. Sudden changes in suction are a common cause of uneven treatment and marks. Unplug the machine before cleaning or changing parts, and never let water reach the motor or power socket.
What Buyers Commonly Mention
Feedback on retail sites falls into a few recurring themes. We summarise it in general terms rather than quoting individual reviews.
- Many buyers say it feels similar to a basic salon treatment.
- Some report smoother, brighter skin after sessions.
- A common complaint is brief or unclear instructions.
- Some users report redness, suction marks or small bruises, often at higher settings.
- Some mention the suction weakening over time or parts wearing out.
- A few note the machine is louder or bulkier than expected.
The pattern suggests that careful technique and low settings make the difference between a good and a bad experience. It is also worth remembering that buyer feedback is self-reported and often posted soon after purchase, before long-term durability or skin reactions are clear. Look for reviews that mention months of use, and check whether the seller offers a warranty and replacement parts before you commit.
Alternatives to a Kendal Machine
If a tabletop diamond machine feels like too much, there are gentler and more controlled routes to smoother skin.
| Option | How it compares | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Handheld home microdermabrasion devices | Weaker suction, simpler to use | Beginners |
| Chemical exfoliants such as AHAs | No friction; even results | Dullness and mild texture |
| Dermaplaning | Removes dead skin and fine hair | A smooth makeup base |
| Professional microdermabrasion | Trained staff, controlled settings | More reliable results |
| Chemical peels by a dermatologist | Deeper resurfacing | Sun damage, pigmentation, marks |
Our comparison of microdermabrasion vs a facial can help you decide whether a professional treatment would suit you better.
Dos and Don’ts
Worth Doing
- Start with the finest tip and lowest suction
- Patch test first
- Keep the wand moving
- Replace filters regularly
- Wear sunscreen daily afterwards
Skip It
- Use it on acne, rosacea or broken capillaries
- Turn the suction to maximum
- Go over the same area again and again
- Use retinoids or acids on the same day
- Share tips with others
Honest Limits
A Kendal machine is a tool for surface exfoliation. It cannot rebuild collagen in any meaningful way, fill deep scars or lift sagging skin. Treat claims of dramatic anti-aging results with caution, especially when they come from seller listings rather than independent research.
There is also less official information available than for major brand devices, so you rely more on your own judgement. Results from any microdermabrasion fade as skin renews itself, so ongoing sessions are needed to maintain them, and each extra session is another chance for irritation if technique slips. If you want consistent, measurable improvement, professional microdermabrasion, peels or other clinic treatments offer more control and fewer surprises.
Stop using the machine if you notice bruising, broken capillaries, lasting redness, burning or dark patches. Do not use it on sunburnt skin, open wounds, cold sores or infected skin, or while using prescription retinoids or isotretinoin unless a dermatologist approves it.
When to See a Dermatologist
- Redness, swelling or pain lasts more than a day or two after treatment.
- You notice bruising, broken capillaries or dark patches.
- You have acne, rosacea, melasma or eczema and want safe options.
- You want to treat deep scars or wrinkles that surface exfoliation cannot reach.
This article is for general information and does not replace professional medical advice. Product details are based on seller listings and may change. Speak to a board-certified dermatologist about skin conditions or reactions.
Questions People Ask
Are Kendal microdermabrasion machines good?
They can work well for careful users with resilient skin.
Is a Kendal machine safe for home use?
It can be, with low settings, good hygiene and patience.
How often can I use it?
Space sessions out and follow the manual; weekly or less is typical.
Which tip should I start with?
Start with the finest tip and the lowest suction.
Can it remove acne scars?
It may soften very shallow texture but not deep scars.
Is it suitable for sensitive skin?
Usually not; suction and friction often irritate.
Why do I have red marks after using it?
Suction may be too high or the wand moved too slowly.
Do I need to change the filters?
Yes, replace them regularly as the manual advises.
Can I use it on my body?
Yes, larger tips are included for body areas.
Is it the same as a salon treatment?
It uses a similar principle, but trained staff give more control.
The Bottom Line
Kendal diamond microdermabrasion machines can give smoother, brighter-looking skin for careful users with resilient skin, but their stronger suction makes them less forgiving than simple handheld devices.
Start low, move quickly, keep everything clean and wear sunscreen daily, and choose professional treatment for deeper concerns or sensitive skin.
Keep reading: Microdermabrasion and diamond peel
- Ultimate Guide Microdermabrasion: What to Know
- PMD Personal Microderm Review: How It Works, Pros, Cons and Who It Suits
- What Is Microdermabrasion Good For? Benefits, Limits and Who It Suits
- Do Dermatologists Recommend Microdermabrasion?
- Can Diamond Peel Remove Scars? Real Answer
- How Many Sessions of Diamond Peel Is Needed?
- Microneedling Facial: Real Results, Explained
- Is Hydrafacial a Gimmick? What Evidence Shows
