Dermabrasion vs. Microdermabrasion: Which one do I need? 

Dermabrasion vs. Microdermabrasion

Dermabrasion involves the use of a special high-speed rotating device on skin that has been previously cooled. The device causes “sanding” of the skin and removes the outer layers to allow a new skin layer to grow in its place. The new skin has a smoother and more youthful appearance.  

Dr. Q Medical Spa, led by board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Suzanne Quardt (Dr. Q), provides dermabrasion and microdermabrasion treatments to patients in Palm Springs, Palm Desert, Rancho Mirage, Beverly Hills, CA, and surrounding location. 

What is dermabrasion? 

Dermabrasion is a relatively more invasive med spa procedure in which the upper layers of skin are removed to trigger the growth of new skin underneath. The instrument used is made up of a rotating wheel fitted with wire brushes. It must be operated precisely by an expert cosmetic surgeon after administration of an anesthetic.  

What is microdermabrasion? 

Microdermabrasion is a non-surgical, non-invasive procedure where the exfoliation of the skin is carefully controlled to remove only the outermost layer of dead skin. A handheld device is rolled over the skin by a professional to provide a gentle abrasive effect.  

What to Expect With Dermabrasion and Microdermabrasion 

Dermabrasion helps to get rid of scars caused by an accident or skin disease or acne. It may also be used to remove wrinkles, age spots, and tattoo scars. Following treatment, the skin forms a crust which falls away after a few days to reveal the new skin below. This new skin is red in color just as with any skin resurfacing technique such as a chemical or laser peel.  

Microdermabrasion or “power peel” uses a spray of tiny crystals that removes superficial skin issues such as dull skin, fine lines, and mild acne scars. It also works well on brown spots, age spots and skin damaged due to exposure to sunlight. Microdermabrasion is a non-surgical med spa procedure; there is no bleeding and downtime is minimal. 

Dermabrasion is More Invasive 

Dermabrasion is a surgical, invasive procedure that requires prior numbing of the skin with a local or general anesthetic. The process is intensive and will require about two hours to complete. Recovery may take anywhere from 10 to 14 days depending on the level of treatment. During this time, the skin appears red, irritated, or inflamed, and you may experience some pain for which your surgeon will prescribe pain medication.  

Microdermabrasion is Less Intensive 

Microdermabrasion involves mild exfoliation and removes only the dead skin cells and does not act on the living cells below. This makes it a less invasive and relatively painless procedure with minimal downtime. Your skin begins to feel refreshed soon after the treatment.  

These two forms of treatment differ mainly in the skin resurfacing intensity. Microdermabrasion removes only dead cells on the outermost skin layer whereas dermabrasion penetrates deeper to forcefully remove the deeper, living skin layers.  

Which one of the two do you need? 

Results of dermabrasion are more dramatic as compared to microdermabrasion. If you have severe skin problems such as deep wrinkles, intense pigmentation, or acne scars, choose dermabrasion for more long-lasting results. Dr. Q Medical Spa receives patients from Palm Springs, Palm Desert, Rancho Mirage, Beverly Hills, CA, and nearby areas for dermabrasion and microdermabrasion.  

Contact Dr. Q Medical Spa in Palm Springs Southern California

For more information on Plastic Surgery and Non-Surgical Medical Spa Procedures and Treatments in the Rancho Mirage, Palm Springs, Palm Desert, CA and surrounding areas please contact the offices of Board Certified Plastic Surgeon Dr. Suzanne Quardt (Dr. Q) by clicking here or calling 760-324-2660.