the present invention relates to compositions and methods for removing an epidermal portion of the skin of a patient by microdermabrasion with a crystalline emulsion . the crystalline emulsion includes a mixture of coated crystals and a carrier . the coated crystals are formed by combining magnesium oxide , aluminum oxide or a combination of the two with methicone , adding a catalyst , such as ammonia , and mixing , then baking the resulting slurry mixture until the mixture is dry . the coated crystals are able to stay in the emulsion in a carrier .