Dermabrasion vs. Microdermabrasion: Understanding the Differences

Anwesha Sanyal

Medically Reviewed By Dr. Aarti Nehra

In the quest for youthful and radiant skin, many individuals turn to various skin treatments, with dermabrasion and microdermabrasion often being among the most discussed options. While both procedures are employed towards the improvement of the skin’s texture and appearance they remain poles apart in terms of modality, depth, and result. This blog will provide a detailed description of both treatments and their advantages and disadvantages as well as the skin type that is most appropriate for the treatment.

What is Dermabrasion?

This procedure is a less gentle skin resurfacing technique where the skin layers are rubbed with a wheel –like an instrument. This treatment is usually done by a dermatologist or any other qualified skin care expert. This is typically performed on such skin conditions that are more challenging than simple skin issues such as deep scarred acne, sunburn, and even wrinkles.

Treatment Process

In this process, the patient’s skin is numbed by a local anesthetic to allow the removal of scar tissues/damaged skin to occur. After that, the skin of the patient is washed or cleansed and after that, the high-speed rotary instrument is used by the practitioners to peel the epidermis to promote growth of new epidermis. The depth of the abrasion can be used depending on the skin type of the person.

This invasive procedure is helpful for skin rejuvenation, scar removal, and fine line removal. Nevertheless, because it is an invasive method, the healing may take longer than in the case of microdermabrasion. Patients may develop erythema (redness), oedema (swelling) and crust formation for several days after the treatment and therefore it is important to adhere to post treatment care.
Here are a few key facts comparing both the procedures:

  • Invasiveness:
    Dermabrasion is less common and is a more invasive technique, which involves the shaving off of several layers of skin, being done under local or general anesthetic. On the other hand, the other is a relatively painless method which only allows the peeling off the epidermis layer of the skin.
  • Applications:
    Dermabrasion is used to treat severe skin conditions like deep scar and wrinkle while microdermabrasion is used to treat minor skin imperfection like fine lines, acne scar and uneven skin tone.

Procedures’ Costs

The cost of the dermabrasion treatment includes the experience of the professional doing the treatment, location of the clinic and its extent. The dermabrasion cost ranges that are connected to the other procedure are in the range of $1,500 to $4,000 for one session. You should consult directly with the specialists to get an individualized estimate.

What is Microdermabrasion?

This is a mild procedure of skin peeling as compared to the traditional dermabrasion. This treatment involves use of fine crystals or a diamond tipped wand to scrub the skin then peel off the top layer to reveal the fresh skin. It is safe for people with minor skin problems and can be done on all skin types unlike dermabrasion.

The Treatment Process

Microdermabrasion treatment typically lasts 30 to 60 minutes and no anesthesia is needed. In the process, a hand-held unit is employed to apply fine crystals on the skin surface and then to vacuum the crystals together with the dead skin cells. This two in one process not only removes the dead skin cells but also promotes collagen synthesis hence enhancing skin texture and color.

This is also called a “lunchtime procedure” because the procedure is fast and has little to no recovery time. Patients may develop a mild erythema after the treatment, which is similar to a mild sunburn, and this normally resolves within a few hours.

Microdermabrasion Cost

It is slightly cheaper than the dermabrasion and this makes it to be preferred by many people. Prices of this procedure range from $75 -$150 for each session. In addition, most clinics offer packages or membership so that getting regular treatments is even cheaper.

Dermabrasion vs Microdermabrasion

Now that you must have the insights of these two procedure; let’s figure out what exact difference they do have. The following is the difference between both the procedures:

  • Depth of Treatment:
    The major difference between these two is the depth of treatment offered. The former is much more invasive than the other procedure because it actually causes the removal of several skin layers as compared to just the top layer in the latter one. The latter on the other hand is a comparatively mild procedure that aims mainly at the peeling of the skin.
  • Recovery Time:
    Derma procedure usually takes longer to heal and may take several days to a week to recover. To promote fast healing, the patient may be barred from going out under the sun or wearing certain clothing and always follow certain rules with regard to wound care. Microdermabrasion, on the other hand, has hardly any down time, and the people can resume their activities right after the treatment has been done.
  • Results:
    Both treatments can enhance skin texture and its appearance, but dermabrasion is more effective because it works deeper. Microdermabrasion is a mild procedure and is most effective for maintenance or for those with minor skin problems.
  • Suitability:
    Dermabrasion is best applied to those with marked skin problems, such as deep skin scars, skin wrinkles, and likely sunburn. It is thus wise to consult a dermatologist and ask whether this treatment is possible. Microdermabrasion on the other hand is ideal for people who want a mild peel or people with minor skin irregularities. It is usually advised for those who want to get a new look without having to wait for long.

Conclusion

In general, the dermabrasion or microdermabrasion choice depends on a number of factors that include skin type that is the color/ tone and texture of the skin, skin condition that is the problem to be corrected or the issues of the skin and expected outcomes that are the overall desired results. However, in patients with more extensive skin conditions the efficacy of dermabrasion is greater despite its higher cost and longer healing period. Those who are seeking a fast and painless procedure might prefer the other procedure as well.

All the treatments have their merits and can contribute in achieving the desired target of achieving healthier and radiant skin. This is always advised, though one should consult a dermatologist or any skin specialist to get to know which treatment is right for them. Whether choosing dermabrasion or microdermabrasion, the way to a more youthful complexion is just a session away!

References
https://www.byrdie.com/dermabrasion-vs-microdermabrasion-6835097
https://www.healthgrades.com/right-care/dermabrasion/dermabrasion-vs-microdermabrasion-whats-the-difference
https://www.medicinenet.com/dermabrasion/article.htm

Anwesha Sanyal
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