Microdermabrasion vs Dermaplaning: Which Is Better?

When it comes to professional exfoliation and skin rejuvenation, two treatments often dominate the conversation: microdermabrasion and dermaplaning. Both are popular in salons and dermatology offices, promising smoother, brighter, and more youthful-looking skin. But if you’re asking yourself, “Which one is better for me?”—you’re not alone.

The truth is, both treatments offer amazing benefits, but they work in different ways and are suited for different skin types and goals. Understanding the differences can help you choose the right treatment for your skin concerns, especially if you’re looking to improve texture, fine lines, pigmentation, or dullness.

What Is Microdermabrasion?

Microdermabrasion is a non-invasive mechanical exfoliation treatment that removes the outermost layer of dead skin cells. It uses a handheld device with a diamond tip or crystal stream combined with suction to gently buff the skin.

How It Works:

• The device exfoliates the stratum corneum (outer skin layer)

• Dead skin cells are vacuumed away

• Circulation is stimulated, encouraging cell turnover and collagen production

Typical Areas Treated:

• Face

• Neck

• Chest

• Hands

Common Goals:

• Improve dull skin

• Reduce fine lines

• Minimize superficial scarring and acne marks

• Even out skin tone and texture

Benefits of Microdermabrasion

1. Deep Exfoliation: Removes dead skin cells more effectively than at-home scrubs.

2. Brightened Complexion: Promotes a radiant, refreshed look.

3. Improved Product Absorption: Serums and moisturizers penetrate better post-treatment.

4. Collagen Stimulation: Gentle trauma encourages collagen production over time.

5. Non-Invasive: Usually painless with little to no downtime.

Ideal Candidates:

• Normal to oily skin

• Mild acne scarring or hyperpigmentation

• Fine lines and uneven texture

• Dull or congested skin

Considerations:

• Mild redness or sensitivity immediately after treatment

• Avoided on very sensitive, inflamed, or rosacea-prone skin

• Multiple sessions are often needed for optimal results

What Is Dermaplaning?

Dermaplaning is a manual exfoliation treatment that uses a sterile surgical scalpel to gently scrape away dead skin cells and peach fuzz from the face. Unlike microdermabrasion, dermaplaning is purely mechanical and does not use suction or crystals.

How It Works:

• A trained esthetician or dermatologist holds the skin taut

• The scalpel is stroked across the skin at a precise angle

• Dead skin cells and fine vellus hair are removed

• Leaves the skin incredibly smooth and soft

Typical Areas Treated:

• Entire face

• Neck (optional)

Common Goals:

• Remove peach fuzz for smoother skin

• Brighten dull complexions

• Enhance makeup application

• Prepare skin for chemical peels or facial treatments

Benefits of Dermaplaning

1. Smooth Skin Texture: Leaves skin silky and soft immediately.

2. Makeup Application: Foundation and concealer glide effortlessly.

3. Brightens Dull Skin: Removes surface debris and dead cells.

4. Safe for Most Skin Types: Works on sensitive and dry skin.

5. Non-Invasive: Minimal discomfort and no downtime.

Ideal Candidates:

• Anyone with fine vellus hair (“peach fuzz”)

• Mild hyperpigmentation or rough texture

• Dry or sensitive skin

• Makeup enthusiasts looking for a flawless application

Considerations:

• Avoid during active acne flare-ups or broken skin

• Hair grows back in 2–4 weeks, so treatments may need repeating

• Must be performed by a skilled professional to avoid cuts

Key Differences Between Microdermabrasion and Dermaplaning

Choosing the Right Treatment for Your Skin

When deciding between microdermabrasion and dermaplaning, consider your skin type, goals, and concerns.

Choose Microdermabrasion If:

• You want to target fine lines, mild scars, or enlarged pores

• You’re dealing with congested or oily skin

• You want a gradual improvement in texture and tone

• You’re comfortable with mild redness or temporary sensitivity

Choose Dermaplaning If:

• You want instant smoothness

• You want to remove peach fuzz for better makeup application

• You have dry or sensitive skin

• You want minimal to no downtime

Complementary Benefits

Many skincare professionals recommend combining the two treatments for maximum results:

1. Dermaplaning First: Removes surface hair and dead skin cells.

2. Microdermabrasion Second: Buffs deeper layers for improved texture and tone.

This dual approach can enhance absorption of serums, accelerate exfoliation, and give the skin a radiant, smooth finish.

Safety Considerations

While both treatments are generally safe, there are precautions to consider:

• Avoid active acne or infections – Both methods can irritate inflamed skin.

• Sun sensitivity – Exfoliation makes skin more vulnerable to UV damage. Always use SPF post-treatment.

• Professional guidance – Ensure a licensed esthetician or dermatologist performs the procedure.

• Avoid aggressive at-home methods – Microdermabrasion devices and dermaplaning tools used incorrectly can cause irritation, cuts, or hyperpigmentation.

Aftercare for Both Treatments

Proper aftercare ensures optimal results and prevents complications:

Microdermabrasion Aftercare:

• Avoid sun exposure for 24–48 hours

• Use gentle cleansers and hydrating serums

• Avoid harsh chemical exfoliants for at least 3–5 days

• Apply a broad-spectrum SPF daily

Dermaplaning Aftercare:

• Skin may be slightly pink; this is normal

• Apply gentle moisturizers and hydrating serums

• Avoid chemical peels or retinoids for 2–3 days

• Sun protection is essential, especially if skin is freshly exfoliated

Combining With Other Treatments

Both microdermabrasion and dermaplaning can be used as part of a comprehensive skincare plan:

• Chemical peels: Dermaplaning preps the skin for more even penetration

• Facials: Microdermabrasion enhances facial treatments, stimulating collagen and exfoliating dead skin

• Retinoids and serums: Both treatments increase absorption of active ingredients, boosting efficacy

• Laser treatments: Smooth, exfoliated skin responds better to laser resurfacing and pigmentation correction

Cost and Frequency

Microdermabrasion:

• Typical Cost: $75–$200 per session

• Recommended Frequency: Every 2–4 weeks

Dermaplaning:

• Typical Cost: $50–$150 per session

• Recommended Frequency: Every 3–6 weeks

Note: Pricing varies based on location, provider, and whether additional serums or treatments are included.

Real-Life Experiences

Many people report noticeable benefits from both treatments:

• Microdermabrasion: Gradual improvement in texture, smaller-looking pores, and softer skin over multiple sessions

• Dermaplaning: Instant smoothness, brighter appearance, and better makeup application

Some individuals alternate treatments monthly: one month dermaplaning, the next microdermabrasion. This approach provides both immediate smoothness and long-term skin improvement.

Pros and Cons

Microdermabrasion:
Pros: Improves texture, targets fine lines, reduces superficial scars, stimulates collagen
Cons: Mild redness, multiple sessions required, may not remove peach fuzz

Dermaplaning:
Pros: Instant smoothness, safe for sensitive skin, removes peach fuzz, no downtime
Cons: Hair regrows in 2–4 weeks, doesn’t target deeper texture issues

Tips for Maximizing Results

1. Hydrate skin before and after treatments to maintain suppleness

2. Use gentle cleansers and serums for sensitive post-treatment skin

3. Incorporate SPF to protect exfoliated skin

4. Avoid harsh chemicals for a few days post-treatment

5. Consult a professional for skin with conditions like rosacea, eczema, or active acne

So, which is better: microdermabrasion or dermaplaning?

The answer depends on your skin goals:

• Microdermabrasion: Better for texture, fine lines, mild scars, and stimulating collagen

• Dermaplaning: Better for immediate smoothness, removing peach fuzz, and enhancing makeup application

For mature skin, combining both treatments can provide the best of both worlds: instant smoothness, enhanced brightness, and long-term improvement in texture and tone. Pairing these treatments with hydration, sun protection, and gentle skincare ensures that results are not only immediate but also lasting.

 

By understanding the differences and benefits, you can choose the treatment—or combination—that will leave your skin glowing, smooth, and youthful.

How Microdermabrasion and Dermaplaning Affect Mature Skin

Mature skin requires special care because it naturally loses collagen, elastin, and moisture over time. Both microdermabrasion and dermaplaning offer unique benefits for aging skin:

Microdermabrasion Benefits for Mature Skin

• Collagen Stimulation: The mild abrasion and suction encourage fibroblasts to produce more collagen, improving elasticity over time.

• Reduction of Fine Lines and Wrinkles: Regular sessions can help soften the appearance of fine lines, especially on the forehead and around the mouth.

• Even Skin Tone: Helps fade sunspots, hyperpigmentation, and dull patches that often appear with age.

• Improved Texture: Mature skin often develops rough patches or uneven texture; microdermabrasion smooths these areas.

Dermaplaning Benefits for Mature Skin

• Instant Smoothness: Dermaplaning removes the outer dead skin layer and peach fuzz, leaving the skin immediately silky.

• Enhanced Makeup Application: Mature skin can benefit from a smooth surface, making foundation and powders apply more evenly.

• Subtle Brightening: Removing dead skin and vellus hair enhances natural radiance.

• Gentle Exfoliation: Ideal for mature skin that may be more sensitive or dry, as it avoids suction or crystal abrasives.

Both treatments are safe for mature skin when performed correctly, but the key is adjusting technique, frequency, and aftercare.

Science-Backed Insights

Several studies have highlighted the effectiveness of both treatments for skin rejuvenation:

• Microdermabrasion Studies:

  • Research shows microdermabrasion can increase skin thickness and collagen density with repeated treatments.

  • Clinical studies found improvement in fine lines, sun-damaged skin, and mild scarring after 4–6 sessions.

• Dermaplaning Studies:

  • While fewer clinical studies exist, dermaplaning has been shown to enhance exfoliation and topical product absorption.

  • A study on skin hydration found that removing vellus hair and dead skin allows moisturizers to penetrate deeper, improving efficacy.

These findings confirm that both methods are safe and effective for mature skin, particularly when paired with proper hydration and sun protection.

Targeted Routines for Mature Skin

Different areas of the face and body age differently, so tailoring exfoliation is key.

Face

• Microdermabrasion: Focus on areas with uneven texture, fine lines, or sun damage. Avoid aggressive abrasion near delicate eye areas.

• Dermaplaning: Target peach fuzz and dry patches, especially on the cheeks, jawline, and upper lip.

Neck and Décolletage

• Microdermabrasion: Use gentle passes along the chest and neck to reduce roughness and pigmentation.

• Dermaplaning: Soft strokes to remove dead skin; ideal before special events to make the skin glow.

Hands

• Microdermabrasion: Can improve pigmentation, sun damage, and texture.

• Dermaplaning: Usually not performed on hands, but gentle exfoliation creams can mimic results.

Combining Microdermabrasion and Dermaplaning

For mature skin, combining both treatments can yield superior results:

1. Dermaplaning First: Removes surface hair and dead skin, prepping the skin for deeper exfoliation.

2. Microdermabrasion Second: Buffs deeper layers, stimulating collagen and evening tone.

3. Moisturize and Protect: Hydrating creams and SPF post-treatment maximize benefits.

Benefits of Combination Approach:

• Smoother texture from dermaplaning

• Gradual long-term improvement from microdermabrasion

• Enhanced absorption of serums and moisturizers

• Increased skin brightness and firmness

Many dermatologists recommend alternating sessions: for example, dermaplaning one month, microdermabrasion the next. This prevents irritation while providing both immediate and long-term improvements.

Seasonal Adjustments for Mature Skin

Skin reacts differently throughout the year, especially mature skin. Adjust exfoliation and treatment plans accordingly:

Winter

• Skin is drier and more sensitive

• Use gentle dermaplaning or low-intensity microdermabrasion

• Apply rich moisturizers and oils immediately post-treatment

Summer

• Skin may be more exposed to sun and prone to hyperpigmentation

• Always follow with broad-spectrum SPF 30+

• Avoid aggressive exfoliation if the skin is sunburned

Transitional Seasons

• Maintain 2–3 week intervals for dermaplaning and microdermabrasion

• Focus on hydration and protective serums to complement exfoliation

Myths About Microdermabrasion and Dermaplaning

1. “Microdermabrasion is painful.”
   Truth: Mild tingling or abrasion is normal, but it is generally painless.

2. “Dermaplaning causes hair to grow back thicker.”
   Truth: Vellus hair grows back the same; it does not become darker or thicker.

3. “Both treatments are only for young skin.”
   Truth: Mature skin benefits from both, especially for texture, dullness, and fine lines.

4. “You only need one session.”
   Truth: Multiple sessions yield better and more lasting results, particularly for mature skin.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I do these treatments at home?
Answer: At-home dermaplaning tools and microdermabrasion devices exist, but professional treatments are safer, especially for mature or sensitive skin.

Q: How often should mature skin be treated?
Answer: Microdermabrasion: every 2–4 weeks; dermaplaning: every 3–6 weeks. Frequency can be adjusted based on skin tolerance.

Q: Can I use both treatments on the same day?
Answer: Typically not recommended due to irritation risk. Alternating treatments or spacing them by a week is safer.

Q: Can these treatments help with hyperpigmentation?
Answer: Microdermabrasion can improve superficial hyperpigmentation over multiple sessions. Dermaplaning primarily removes dead skin and hair but improves product absorption, aiding in brightening over time.

Q: Are there any risks for mature skin?
Answer: Minimal if performed by a professional. Risks include temporary redness, mild irritation, or sensitivity. Avoid active acne, eczema, or inflamed skin.

Tips for Maximizing Results

1. Hydration is key: Mature skin absorbs and retains treatment benefits better when hydrated.

2. Sun protection: Always use SPF post-treatment to protect newly exfoliated skin.

3. Pair with serums: Hyaluronic acid, antioxidants, and peptides enhance results.

4. Consistency matters: One session provides immediate benefits, but long-term improvement requires regular sessions.

5. Gentle approach: Mature skin needs softer treatment intensity and longer recovery intervals.

Long-Term Benefits for Mature Skin

With consistent care, both microdermabrasion and dermaplaning offer lasting improvements:

• Smoother texture with fewer rough patches

• Brighter complexion and more radiant skin

• Improved makeup application with a smoother surface

• Reduction of fine lines and sunspots (primarily microdermabrasion)

• Enhanced skincare penetration for moisturizers, serums, and anti-aging treatments

For mature skin, results compound over time, making both treatments a valuable addition to an ongoing skincare regimen.

Cost Considerations

Microdermabrasion: $75–$200 per session
Dermaplaning: $50–$150 per session

Some salons and dermatology clinics offer package deals, which can be cost-effective for ongoing maintenance.

Real-Life Experiences

• Jane, 52, noticed smoother skin and a subtle glow after dermaplaning, making her daily foundation glide on seamlessly.

• Susan, 60, experienced gradual softening of fine lines and improved texture after a series of microdermabrasion sessions.

• Many individuals alternate treatments for both immediate and long-term benefits, especially those with mature skin seeking a combination of glow, smoothness, and collagen support.

Final Thoughts

Both microdermabrasion and dermaplaning are excellent treatments, but the best choice depends on your skin goals:

• Microdermabrasion: Ideal for improving texture, fine lines, superficial scarring, and collagen stimulation.

• Dermaplaning: Best for instant smoothness, removing peach fuzz, and enhancing makeup application.

• Combination Approach: Alternating or pairing treatments can provide immediate smoothness, long-term improvements, and better skincare absorption.

For mature skin, a customized approach based on skin type, sensitivity, and goals provides the best results. When paired with hydration, SPF, and gentle daily skincare, these treatments can leave your skin smoother, brighter, and more youthful-looking—without harsh chemicals or invasive procedures.