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.