Abrasive compositions which include bioactive materials, such as bioactive glass and bioactive ceramics, which provide biological properties such as anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, anti-oxidant effects, improved wound healing, and/or other beneficial effects are provided. Also provided are abrasive compositions comprising relatively non-toxic, bioinert glasses and ceramics which provide good abrasive effects, reduce or eliminate potentially harmful small particles; reduce or eliminate clogging of dermabrasion equipment; possess a relatively large surface area for applying coatings; and may be inexpensive and simple to make. Methods for abrading human or animal tissue, such as human skin, by contacting such tissue with these abrasive compositions is also provided.