Microdermabrasion is a tried and trusted exfoliating treatment that has been around for decades. Thanks to the fantastic results you can achieve for a number of skin concerns, microdermabrasion has benefited from enduring popularity. Microdermabrasion refers to the use of tiny exfoliating crystals to unsettle and remove the dead, upper layer of skin and reveal the fresh, new skin layer beneath. Dermaplaning, a relatively new treatment, uses a bladed tool to remove the surface layer of dead cells and vellus ‘peach fuzz’ hair from the skin.
Microdermabrasion vs. Dermaplaning
Although on the surface they might appear to work in a similar way by removing dead skin cells, microdermabrasion and dermaplaning have distinct differences and boast their own advantages and disadvantages. Here we share with you the pros and cons of microdermabrasion vs. dermaplaning so you can make the best treatment decisions for your clients.
Microdermabrasion – The Pros
Microdermabrasion is very effective for targeting skin complaints. A course of treatments is progressive and carried out every 7-1o days removing dead skin cells and stimulating the production of collagen and elastin in the skin.
- Vacuum action boosts blood flow to the area
- Combined action fo crystals and vacuum unclogs pores and clears congestion
- Suitable for use every 7-10 days
- Stimulates new collagen and elastin production
- Work around spots thanks to the targeted microcrystals and handset.
- Stimulates body’s natural repair process
- Progressive treatment, see improvements with each treatment
- Aids absorption of skincare products
Microdermabrasion – The Cons
Despite being super effective and efficient as a treatment, microdermabrasion is not suitable for pregnant clients because of the increased risk of pigmentation. It is also unsuitable for those with rosacea and broken capillaries in the face as the vacuum action can exacerbate these issues.
Dermaplaning – The Pros
Unlike MD, dermaplaning removes the vellus hair, often known as ‘peach fuzz’. This is a particular attraction for some clients who dislike the appearance of this hair on the face. It can also help improve the absorption of skincare products into the skin. You can use Dermaplaning to treat clients with thread veins whereas MD would not be suitable due to the vacuum action of the treatment. Dermaplaning can also be carried out on pregnant clients, although hormonal changes mean pregnant clients should take particular precautions to avoid UV and wear a high spf following treatment to prevent any pigmentation issues.
- Removes peach fuzz
- Hair does not grow back thicker or darker
- Suitable for pregnant clients
- Suitable for clients with rosacea and broken capillaries
- Helps absorption of products
Dermaplaning – The Cons
Although used to remove dead skin, the treatment itself does not unclog the pores. Some therapists overcome this by following a dermaplaning treatment with an enzyme peel. This will dissolve dirt and sebum in the pores.
Dermaplaning can cause breakouts for someone with an oily skin. The vellus hair has been removed so the oil that is produced in the sebaceous gland can not travel up the hair to lubricate the skin. Therefore, it can get trapped underneath and cause a spot. You can avoid this by using the correct skincare for an oily skin. The Vellus hair will grow back so it is not a permanent solution to this issue.
So, What’s the Solution microdermabrasion vs. dermaplaning?
The optimum solution for each client will ultimately depend on the condition of their skin, the results that they are looking for, and any skin ailments and imperfections which may stand in the way of either or both treatment options. While dermaplaning can be performed just once a month, microdermabrasion is a great option for those looking to solve more problems than a few facial hairs and dead skin cells. Find out more about what microdermabrasion treatments can treat here.