The phrases “abrasion” and “dermabrasion” are frequently used interchangeably by dermatologists. However, how do these two medical procedures differ from one another? In order to improve stretch marks, acne scars, and other skin discolorations, abrasion is a treatment that removes the outer layer of skin. A dermabrasion kit can be used at home, or a more sophisticated device known as an abrasive microdermabrasion machine can be used at a doctor’s office.

Dermabrasion is a more severe form of abrasion that can remove skin layers as thick as 0.5 mm. Scars, wrinkles, and other imperfections brought on by aging or sun damage are usually treated with it.

Since it could be difficult for you to obtain accurate information online, we’ve put together the best and most recent information on dermabrasion therapy and side effects in the article that follows.

The distinctions between dermabrasion and microdermabrasion may be unclear to even the most knowledgeable skincare enthusiasts. After all, they can both be successful skin resurfacing techniques and essentially go by the same name. To assist you in deciding which treatment could be best for you, we’ve broken down the two procedures in terms of invasiveness, technology, and aesthetic issues.

Dermabrasion vs. Microdermabrasion

In principle, dermabrasion and microdermabrasion are similar, but in practice, they differ greatly. According to board-certified dermatologist Blair Murphy-Rose, MD, of New York City, “both sound similar and are resurfacing procedures that damage the skin in a specialized manner to improve it, but they are pretty dissimilar otherwise.” The severity and extent of skin damage caused by dermabrasion and microdermabrasion vary significantly, as do the related risks, downtime, and outcomes.

To put it briefly, dermabrasion is the process of mechanically removing the epidermis and dermal top layer. In contrast, microdermabrasion is a minimally invasive procedure that exfoliates the skin’s surface. Jennifer Levine, MD, a double board-certified facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon in New York City, states that although microdermabrasion works for all skin types, dermabrasion works best for those with lighter skin, typically Fitzpatrick skin types I through III.

Dermabrasion

Dermabrasion is a surgical method that uses a high-speed rotary tool to abrade the skin in order to resurface it, Dr. Murphy-Rose says. She likens the device to a “sanding-like” tool that can penetrate deep into the skin. “Layers of skin are essentially removed down into the upper dermis and then, through the natural healing process, a new layer of healthier, smoother skin replaces them,” she adds.

The procedure typically requires local or general anesthesia and comes with one to two weeks of downtime. High-quality dermabrasion can reduce deeper wrinkles, lines, pigmentation, and other textural abnormalities (like scars), explains Jessica Weiser, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in NYC. But it’s not without risk. “Dermabrasion carries the risk of infection, discoloration, and scarring,” she says.

POPULAR TYPES OF DERMABRASION

Dermabrasion can be performed with a motor-powered diamond fraise, wire brush, or serrated wheel. Alternatively, it can be done manually using a medium-grade drywall sanding screen. “Dermabrasion rapidly planes the skin surface,” Dr. Weiser explains. The tool used will likely depend on what you are trying to treat. “The wire brush is best used for deeper scars and irregularities, whereas the fraise and wheel are typically utilized to soften the edges of skin removed by the wire brush,” Dr. Weiser says.

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM DERMABRASION

Prior to dermabrasion, you’ll be treated with pain medication, local anesthetic for nerve blocks, and, on occasion, general anesthesia. “Eyes are covered to protect from possible spray, and the skin is sometimes treated with gentian violet stain to monitor how deep the treatment is extended,” Dr. Weiser shares. “The skin is held taut and then abraded, leading to a raw skin surface and some bleeding.”

You can expect significant redness, swelling, and moderate pain (managed by pain medication). Bleeding may also occur after treatment. “As the area heals, scabbing or crusting will occur and the redness and swelling will eventually subside over one to two weeks,” Dr. Murphy-Rose says. “You will need to follow your doctor’s instructions and take very good care of your skin during the healing process to prevent infection.” You’ll also want to ask your doctor when it’s safe to go into the sun again. “During the healing process, you should avoid all exposure to sunlight on the treated area,” she says. Most doctors will also advise avoiding strenuous exercise for about a month post-procedure.

Microdermabrasion

While dermabrasion lives at the invasive side of the aesthetic procedure spectrum, microdermabrasion falls at the other end. “Microdermabrasion is a non-invasive procedure that removes the dead skin cells from the epidermis to help exfoliate the skin surface,” Dr. Weiser explains. It does not, however, reach the viable skin cells of the lower epidermis and superficial dermis. Microdermabrasion can improve superficial skin concerns such as fine lines, brown spots, and enlarged pores, Dr. Murphy-Rose says.

Microdermabrasion, which is generally considered painless and involves little to no recovery time, can be done with a diamond or crystal tip tool. “A handheld device sprays tiny crystals onto the skin, causing light skin abrasion or exfoliation to the outermost ‘dead’ skin cells with minimal discomfort, no real downtime, and without the need for anesthesia,” Dr. Murphy-Rose explains.

There are also over-the-counter skincare devices with microdermabrasion in their names. These are exfoliators designed to mimic the benefits of the in-office procedure at home — albeit in a less intensive manner.

POPULAR TYPES OF MICRODERMABRASION?

Microdermabrasion is best suited for younger skin. It can also be a helpful treatment option for acne-prone skin types. The most common forms of microdermabrasion include:

1. Crystal Tip: “Crystals are sprayed on the skin surface and a vacuum-based tip suctions up both dead skin cells and loose crystals,” Dr. Weiser says. It’s best for acne because the crystals also have antibacterial properties.
2. Diamond Tip: This technique involves a tip made from natural or synthetic diamond chips with attached suction. “The diamond abrades the dead skin cells, which are removed by the vacuum-based suction,” she notes.
3. Dermasweep: A gentler vacuum pump with a silk, nylon, or polyester bristle-tipped head is used to allow for greater customization.

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM MICRODERMABRASION

Unlike the seven to 14 days of downtime associated with dermabrasion, there is little to no downtime with microdermabrasion. “There is a mild scratching sensation over the skin surface — sometimes in single or repeated passes — depending on the skin type,” Dr. Weiser says. Post-treatment, your skin may appear pink or red. Dr. Levine likens it to how the skin looks after a scrape. “Any procedure or product that causes exfoliation will make you more sensitive to the sun, so excellent sun protection is essential,” Dr. Murphy-Rose advises. She recommends applying mineral sunscreen daily and wearing a hat and sunglasses after microdermabrasion. Other tips? Skip washing your face the day of. In the following days, opt for a gentle cleanser and moisturize liberally. “You can otherwise go about your regular routine without limitations,” Dr. Murphy-Rose says.

Which Procedure Is Best for You?

Generally speaking, microdermabrasion can be an effective treatment option for patients with acne, pore congestion, and oily skin. At lower settings, it can be used for drier skin types as well. “Very sensitive skin does not respond well to microdermabrasion, and treatment should also be avoided in patients on Accutane therapy where the skin surface is very fragile,” Dr. Weiser notes. It is also not a good choice for patients with rosacea, eczema, and lupus because the treatment stimulates blood flow to the skin, which can worsen certain skin conditions.

Dermabrasion, meanwhile, is best suited for those with significant textural abnormalities such as scarring, wrinkles, and sun damage. It can be used to treat small areas with deep wrinkles (think: lines around the mouth). “These wrinkles are hard to treat and need a treatment that will go deep enough to fully address the wrinkle,” Dr. Levine explains. As such, it is also good for scars and acne scarring. Additionally, someone who has failed to achieve desired results from fractional laser resurfacing may be a candidate.

But it’s not for everyone. “Because it can go deep, it may lead to the stimulation of melanocytes, causing the cells to produce more or less pigment,” Dr. Levine notes. Therefore, it is not recommended for people with darker skin. “Darker skin types may be more prone to adverse effects like pigmentation changes, and anyone prone to keloid formation should avoid dermabrasion,” Dr. Murphy-Rose explains. “Any underlying medical conditions causing poor wound healing would be a contraindication to treatment.

Dermabrasion Side Effects

Although they are rare, dermabrasion side effects might happen. The most typical complications are as follows:

• flare-ups of acne. Milia, little white spots that appear occasionally in persons with acne rosacea, will gradually disappear as the skin heals.
• unnatural, long-lasting changes to skin tone.
• Skin darkening that may be temporary or permanent and is typically brought on by sun exposure in the weeks and months after surgery.
• larger pore size (usually temporary).
• Scarring.
• Swelling.
• Infection.

Dermabrasion Treatment

The treatment of dermabrasion is used by those who want smoother skin. Dermabrasion can reveal more young, smooth skin if you have melasma or rough patches caused by precancerous growths, acne scars from accidents, surgeries, or acne, or scars from acne. Dermabrasion is a low-risk procedure when carried out by a dermatologist or plastic surgeon; however, some skin types may not respond as well as others.

Conclusion

Determining your needs and goals is crucial when choosing between dermabrasion and microdermabrasion. You’ll want to consult with your dermatologist about which is best for you (especially because if you do decide to go the dermabrasion route, you’ll need a medical professional to perform the procedure).

Microdermabrasion will suit most people’s needs—gently removing surface-level skin for a clearer, glowing, and more youthful complexion. If your goal is to remove deep wrinkles or scars, dermabrasion will yield more dramatic results, but given the extreme nature of the procedure.