In two lines: the Classic is the entry-level model (corded, 1 speed), the Pro adds a 2nd speed and more comfortable caps (also corded), and the Elite Pro is cordless, with 3 speeds, 3 suction levels and a blackhead tip. All three use the same principle: rotating aluminum oxide crystal discs and suction.
I give you my opinion based on the official texts (storefront product pages and PMD’s website) and tests published by magazines and bloggers, with their links. As a Curated creator, I earn a commission when you order through my links, at no extra cost to you.
The principle shared by all three devices
According to the official product pages, rotating discs remove dead skin cells, and calibrated suction clears out the pores. The brand also claims that skincare penetrates better (“20 times”), a figure that comes from PMD alone. The claimed benefits: reducing the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, enlarged pores, blemishes and brown spots, evening out skin tone and texture, and boosting radiance. The instructions are the same for all of them: one use per week, on clean, dry skin, starting with the white training disc.
Classic, Pro, Elite Pro: the differences at a glance
Personal Microderm Classic
- Price in my shop: $135.15 (instead of $159)
- Power: must stay plugged in.
- Settings: 1 speed, 1 suction level.
- Caps: classic, face and body.
- Discs: from “very sensitive” to “moderate” (PMD list).
Personal Microderm Pro
- Price in my shop: $169.15 (instead of $199)
- Power: must stay plugged in.
- Settings: 2 speeds, 1 suction level.
- Caps: Smooth Glide, face and body.
- Discs: a “very coarse” disc is added (PMD list).
Personal Microderm Elite Pro
- Price in my shop: $254.15 (instead of $299)
- Power: cordless, USB rechargeable, with base and case.
- Settings: 3 speeds and 3 suction levels (TruTier™ technology).
- Caps: Lux face, body and blackhead.
- Discs: extended range.
Prices are those of my Curated storefront as of October 26, 2026 and may change. The list of discs comes from the “What’s Included” section on PMD’s US site: check the exact contents on the product page before ordering.
Who should get which? My opinion, on paper
- Classic if it’s your first device and the budget matters: it does the essentials (discs + suction) with no extras. Its single speed is also simpler to get used to.
- Pro if you want more control without going cordless: the 2nd (slower) speed gives you a bit more room for a gentler treatment, and PMD recommends it for sensitive skin. If it’s your first purchase and the budget allows, it’s the one I’d look at first.
- Elite Pro if you want fine-tuned settings, the freedom of cordless, body care and a blackhead tip. It’s the most expensive, and nothing says you’ll need it right away.
To compare with other PMD devices, browse the PMD Beauty selection.
What public reviews say
- Glamour (Classic, 2020): the journalist ended up with an irritated skin barrier on her first try, because she hadn’t read the instructions, then found her skin softer and its texture smoother after three weeks. Read the article.
- Allure (2016, original model): for the journalist, the device doesn’t match a real professional treatment but works for maintenance; her skin stayed pink and sensitive for several hours, even with the “sensitive” disc, and suction works less well on the nose and upper forehead. Read the article.
- A Woman’s Confidence (Elite Pro, 4/5): device gifted by the brand (the blogger discloses this). She likes the fast charging and the smoother skin, but didn’t see better absorption of her skincare, found the suction strong and the redness temporary, and thinks the device is poor at removing blackheads. Read the article.
Precautions: what PMD says
According to PMD’s official FAQ:
- One session per week only, without pressing: you glide the device and the suction does the work.
- Don’t use it on active acne or under the eyes, and ask your dermatologist first if you have rosacea.
- Retinol: wait 24 to 48 hours before and after; fillers or Botox: wait about 2 to 3 weeks.
- Change the disc every 3 to 4 uses, rinse the cap and the filter after every use.
I’m not a healthcare professional: if you have any doubt about your skin, ask your dermatologist for advice.
See the Classic · See the Pro · See the Elite Pro
Frequently asked questions about the PMD Personal Microderm
What’s the real difference between the PMD Classic and the Pro?
According to PMD, the Classic has 1 speed and classic caps, the Pro has 2 speeds (including a slower one) and Smooth Glide caps, with a more complete range of discs. Both plug into a wall outlet. PMD presents the Pro as its easiest device to use, particularly for sensitive skin.
How often should I use a PMD Personal Microderm?
Once a week, leaving 5 to 7 days between sessions. PMD insists: no more than once a week, because skin needs a week to regenerate. A treatment generally lasts three to five minutes.
Which PMD disc should I start with?
The white training disc, for everyone, first on the forearm or leg. If your skin tolerates it, PMD suggests moving up to the gray disc the following week, then going up one level at a time, depending on how your skin reacts and the intensity you want.
Can I use the PMD on active acne or under the eyes?
No, in both cases. PMD recommends avoiding microdermabrasion on active acne, and not treating the area where the skin gets thinner, under the eyes (follow the contour of the orbital bone). If you have rosacea, PMD advises talking to your dermatologist first.
Can I combine the PMD with retinol?
PMD recommends waiting 24 to 48 hours before and after a treatment to apply retinol products. After the treatment, rinse with water or a gentle lotion, then apply a moisturizer.
Can the PMD also be used on the body?
Yes. According to PMD, the body caps and discs are used to treat larger areas (neck, chest, hands, feet). Face and body discs are interchangeable; the larger discs simply let you go faster.
