Both Dermaplaning and microdermabrasion provide a level of exfoliation, but the tools—and goals—are different. VIDA offers a variety of aesthetic services, including both of these popular treatments, and oftentimes mixing and matching is what will give you the best results. Neither should be attempted at home since only medical facilities can legally obtain professional-grade technologies and have the providers with the skills and training to use them. Beware of “DIY” or at-home products since they can be ineffective, lead to permanent unwanted results, or both.

Dermaplaning uses a specialized scalpel to remove peach fuzz and debris from the top layer of skin. It is completely non-invasive, but provides such a close touch that it is a form of exfoliation. There are no other in-office means of getting rid of peach fuzz. Laser hair reduction only works on darker, thicker hairs and will not make any difference with peach fuzz. Everyone has these fluffy hairs, and women grow more of them as they get older thanks to hormone fluctuations.

Why Not Dermaplane at Home?

“Isn’t Dermaplane and shaving your face the same thing?” It’s one of the most common questions we get asked and the answer is no. The tools are completely different and while shaving your face (or any part of your body) doesn’t actually make hair grow back thicker and darker, it can appear that way. When you shave with a regular razor, the hair is “chopped” at an angle that can make it appear denser when it starts to grow back. That isn’t the case with Dermaplaning. Dermaplaning tools are designed not only to remove peach fuzz and surface debris, but to do so at a precise angle to minimize the look of thicker regrowth.

However, peach fuzz will come back since there is no permanent way to remove it. Most clients opt for monthly Dermaplaning sessions, often coupled with complementary treatments like microdermabrasion or microneedling. Some prefer to get Dermaplaning just for special events. Dermaplaning is a great way to prepare the skin for other treatments because it gets rid of the entire top debris barrier of the skin so nothing can get in the way. This is why so many people Dermaplane before microdermabrasion.

Microdermabrasion for Maximum Results

Microdermabrasion treatments begin by spraying the skin with an exfoliant followed by the use of an electronic device that suctions debris from the skin. It simultaneously removes gunk from pores (which Dermaplane cannot do) while exfoliating the skin’s surface to reveal clearer, more youthful skin below the surface. Microdermabrasion is more aggressive than dermaplaning, but is still considered a gentle and non-invasive treatment with no downtime.

Our skin is constantly exposed to pollutants and pores are always attracting unwanted “things,” from excess sebum to grime and excess remnants of topicals. This is why microdermabrasion is another monthly treatment for so many people. You will notice immediate results with both Dermaplaning and microdermabrasion with skin that is brighter, smoother, and more youthful. By starting your session with Dermaplaning, you can help optimize the microdermabrasion, making them a perfect pair.

Which One is Best?

One is not better than the other. If you are just choosing one treatment, select your choice based on your goals. Dermaplaning will make your skin smoother and more youthful looking (teenagers rarely have much peach fuzz). It can also help makeup application be better and smoother. Microdermabrasion can help clear up skin, minimizing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation. However, if you really want to take your skin’s appearance to the next level, go with both treatments.

These are just two of the leading procedures available for all ages and skin types. Peels, facials, and more aggressive treatment options are also available and can be customized to your specific skin and goals. There are few contraindications to microdermabrasion and Dermaplaning, although those with open lesions should wait until healing has progressed. If you are interested in finding out more about aesthetic services available at VIDA, schedule a consultation or appointment today. Call the office at (503) 399-0021 or fill out the online contact form for the fastest response.