19 Aug Dermaplaning vs. Microdermabrasion: Which Exfoliation Treatment Is Best for Your Skin?
Dermaplaning and microdermabrasion are both professional exfoliation treatments, but they do not create the same experience or address the skin in exactly the same way. One uses a sterile blade to remove surface cells and fine facial hair; the other uses a device to resurface the outermost layer of the skin.
Both may leave suitable skin feeling smoother. The better choice depends on what you want to improve, how reactive your skin is, and whether facial hair, congestion, or texture is the main priority.
Dermaplaning: exfoliation with removal of fine facial hair
During dermaplaning, a trained provider passes a sterile surgical blade across the skin at a controlled angle. This removes superficial dead skin cells and vellus hair—the soft “peach fuzz” visible on much of the face.
The immediate appeal is a smoother surface. Makeup may apply more evenly, and the complexion can look brighter because irregular surface buildup and fine hair have been reduced. The treatment does not change the follicle, so the hair does not grow back thicker or darker. As it returns, it retains its natural characteristics.
Dermaplaning may not be appropriate over active, inflamed acne, open lesions, or irritated skin. Technique matters, and it should not be confused with casual facial shaving performed without an assessment.
Microdermabrasion: device-based surface resurfacing
Microdermabrasion uses a handheld device to exfoliate the outer surface of the skin, often with a diamond tip or fine crystals combined with suction. The treatment may be considered for dullness, rough texture, and some forms of mild congestion.
Because suction and abrasion are involved, settings should reflect skin thickness, sensitivity, and the area treated. More passes or stronger suction do not automatically produce a better result. Overly intensive treatment can leave the skin unnecessarily irritated.
Microdermabrasion works at the surface. It may make texture look more refined, but it is not designed to remove deep acne scars, pronounced wrinkles, or persistent pigmentation in one session.
The most useful differences
Dermaplaning is often favoured when removing vellus hair is part of the goal or when a client wants a very smooth surface before makeup. Microdermabrasion may be considered when the priority is mechanical resurfacing without removing facial hair.
The sensations differ as well. Dermaplaning feels like light scraping, while microdermabrasion combines abrasion with suction. Neither should be painful when appropriately performed, although temporary pinkness or sensitivity can occur.
For reactive skin, rosacea-prone skin, active breakouts, or a compromised barrier, either option may need to be modified, delayed, or replaced with gentler care. A treatment being non-surgical does not make it suitable during every skin condition.
Timing and aftercare
Both treatments can temporarily increase sensitivity. Gentle cleansing, moisturizer, and broad-spectrum sunscreen help protect the skin afterward. Retinoids, exfoliating acids, scrubs, and other active products may need to be paused according to professional instructions.
Avoid scheduling a first-time treatment immediately before an important event. Although downtime is usually limited, individual redness, dryness, or a reaction to products used during the facial cannot be predicted perfectly.
Recent sun exposure, waxing, peels, laser procedures, and prescription skincare should be mentioned before the appointment. Combining exfoliating services too closely can place avoidable stress on the barrier.
Can the treatments be alternated or combined?
There is rarely a reason to stack exfoliation simply because two methods are available. In some skincare programmes, treatments may be used at different appointments for different goals, but the schedule should allow the skin to recover. The plan should also account for exfoliation already happening at home.
If the concern lies deeper than the surface—such as indented acne scars or established lines—another procedure may be more relevant. Choosing the correct treatment depth is more important than choosing the most familiar treatment name.
Not sure which exfoliation method suits your skin? Book a consultation with Milada in Montréal to compare dermaplaning and microdermabrasion in the context of your goals.