Microdermabrasion vs Dermaplaning: How to Choose an Exfoliating Facial Treatment
If you’re looking into exfoliating, anti-aging treatments, it's easy to be overwhelmed about which option is the best for your skin. Don't worry – we have you covered! Let’s take a look at the basics between microdermabrasion and dermaplaning treatments, and help you determine which targets your skin concerns.
What is microdermabrasion?
Microdermabrasion, also known as microderm or a microdermabrasion facial, is an exfoliation treatment that uses a diamond tip or crystal tip to gently buff away the top layer of skin. The procedure removes dead skin cells and stimulates collagen production to leave you with a brighter and more even complexion.
The process of microdermabrasion
The steps to microdermabrasion are simple and straightforward. When starting your session, the treatment area will be cleaned and cleared of any product. Once clean, the technician will start the microdermabrasion session and run the tool over the affected area. A specially formulated solution and vacuum suction will remove the discarded dead cells, revealing the new, fresh skin underneath. Once the session has been completed, your esthetician applies a rich moisturizer to make sure that the much needed hydration is replenished back into the skin.
What are the benefits of microdermabrasion?
The benefits of microdermabrasion include brightening skin, reducing fine lines, lessening age spots and discoloration, reducing sun damage, unclogging pores and minimizing breakouts, and removing dead skin cells. Your skin ends up looking brighter and smoother!
How long do the effects of microdermabrasion last?
Like most treatments, this number varies from person to person. Generally, the benefits from the treatment are noticeable up to around one month after your session. Variables that affect the duration of the treatment include your skin's natural turnover cycle, your age, and your skincare routines. Regardless of these variables, it is common for routine treatments to be made around every four weeks.
What is dermaplaning?
Dermaplaning is similar to microdermabrasion but instead of using a diamond or crystal tip to remove dull skin, a straight edge razor is used to gently shave off your dead skin cells. The result is a fresh, smooth canvas on which your skincare products will work better.
The process of dermaplaning
The preparation for dermaplaning is similar to that of a microdermabrasion appointment. The skin must be prepped by cleaning it and removing it of any excess dirt, oil, and debris. Once cleansed, the skin is met with a scalpel at a 45 degree angle and is run across the surface of the area being treated. As the blade runs over sections of your face, it removes dry skin, peach fuzz, as well as the top most layer of the skin to reveal fresher skin, less affected by scarring and damage.
Once the process has been completed, the skin is hydrated and aftercare instructions are provided by your specialist to maximize the results of your session. Over all, there are no negative side effects to dermaplaning - just be prepared for a little redness and some skin sensitivity that quickly resolves.
What are the benefits of dermaplaning?
SImilar to microdermabrasion, dermaplaning exfoliates the top layer of skin to expose a fresh canvas. However, dermaplaning also removes the peach fuzz (also known as vellus hair) on the surface of your skin. WIth the removal of peach fuzz, the skin looks smoother and softer after the treatment. In addition, this process can reduce the likelihood of clogged pores and blackheads.
How long do the effects of dermaplaning last?
Just like microdermabrasion, the effects of dermaplaning generally last up to a month. Compared to its sister treatment, the results also depend greatly on how quickly your vellus hair regrows.
Deciding which skincare treatment is best for your skin
Both treatments can improve your complexion and reduce acne scarring, but they do so by slightly different means. Let's take a look at which ones may be best for certain conditions and why.
What are your top skin concerns?
The primary focus for deciding which treatment is going to be best for you is going to rely heavily on what you are trying to treat. Microdermabrasion treatments work best for people looking to reduce dark spots and acne scars.
If your skin lacks scarring or discoloration, and the desired result is simply soft, youthful, glowing skin with an added benefit of hair removal, then dermaplaning may be the best result. In the end, doing research, looking into how comfortable you would be with each treatment, most importantly, talking to a licensed aesthetician, will help you decide which is best for you.
Who isn’t eligible for each treatment?
Individuals with certain skin conditions will want to discuss with one of our specialists to go over any concerns they may have. In general, it is recommended that individuals with an active breakout – acne, eczema, psoriasis – should avoid both treatments. In addition, severe scarring or burns may cause additional concerns for the session and would need to be discussed prior to your appointment.
Otherwise, all skin types, colors, and ages should feel comfortable with either session. Even those with sensitive skin!
Combine your treatments with a great skincare routine for best results
The truth is: the best results from either of these wonderful aesthetic treatments comes with work and dedication from you. Your aesthetician helps you dial in the best products to incorporate into your at-home skincare regimen after a treatment.
Book a microdermabrasion or dermaplaning session with Skinsations Aesthetics!
When at-home remedies and Tiktok recommended skincare products aren't cutting it, call us at Skinsations Aesthetics to make sure you walk away feeling radiant, beautiful, and confident in your skin! We offer a variety of treatments and expert guidance to help you reach your skincare goals.
