Microdermabrasion vs. Dermaplaning: Which Exfoliating Facial Fits Your Skin?

Published September 27, 2026 · Tru Essence Spa · 5 min read

Microdermabrasion and dermaplaning are two of the most popular exfoliating facials, and both promise smoother, brighter skin with little to no downtime. They reach that goal in different ways, though, and each suits slightly different skin types and concerns. Here is how they compare so you can choose the one that fits your skin, or decide to use both.

Why Exfoliation Matters

Your skin sheds dead cells continuously, but that process slows with age, sun exposure and dryness. When dead cells pile up, skin looks dull, feels rough and absorbs skin care products less effectively. Makeup can also sit unevenly on top. Professional exfoliation removes that buildup more thoroughly than scrubs at home, revealing fresher skin and helping your serums and moisturizers work better.

What Is Microdermabrasion?

Microdermabrasion is a non-invasive, chemical-free treatment that uses a device with a fine abrasive tip (such as a diamond tip or micro-crystals) combined with gentle suction. The tip buffs away the outermost layer of dead skin, while the suction lifts away debris and stimulates circulation.

By increasing blood flow and lymphatic drainage to the skin, removing debris and cleaning pores, microdermabrasion leaves skin refreshed and smooth to the touch. Over a series of treatments it can also help soften static fine lines and minimize the appearance of some scars.

Microdermabrasion is a good choice for

• Dull, uneven or rough skin texture
• Congested skin and enlarged-looking pores
• Mild sun damage and uneven tone
• Fine lines and shallow acne scars (as part of a series)
• Normal, combination and oily skin types

What Is Dermaplaning?

Dermaplaning uses a small, sterile surgical blade held at a shallow angle. While the skin is held taut, the provider glides the blade across the face in gentle upward strokes, removing dead skin cells and the fine, soft “peach fuzz” known as vellus hair. It can be used on the forehead, cheeks, chin, nose and neck.

Clients often notice an instant improvement in skin texture and tone. Over time and with regular treatments, dermaplaning can support increased cell turnover and a smoother, more even-looking complexion, and makeup goes on more smoothly without the fine hair underneath.

Dermaplaning is a good choice for

• Dry or dull skin that needs an instant refresh
• Visible facial fuzz that catches makeup or light
• Sensitive skin that does not tolerate suction or crystals well
• Preparing the skin before a chemical peel or special event

Will the hair grow back thicker?

No. This is a common myth. Vellus hair grows back with the same fine texture and color; removing it with a blade does not change the hair follicle. The hair simply regrows over a few weeks.

Side-by-Side Comparison

When to Avoid Either Treatment

Both treatments should be postponed if you have an active cold sore, open wounds, sunburn or a rash in the treatment area. Inflamed, cystic acne is usually better treated first with other options, because physical exfoliation can irritate active breakouts. Tell your provider if you use prescription retinoids or have recently taken isotretinoin, as these can make the skin more fragile. People with very sensitive skin, rosacea or certain skin conditions may need a gentler approach or a different treatment altogether.

What to Expect During and After

Either treatment usually takes about 30 to 45 minutes as part of a facial. Your skin is cleansed, exfoliated using the chosen method and then soothed with hydrating products and sunscreen. Most people return to normal activities immediately. Mild pinkness can last a few hours.

Aftercare tips

• Use a gentle cleanser and a good moisturizer for a couple of days.
• Wear broad-spectrum sunscreen daily, since freshly exfoliated skin is more sensitive to the sun.
• Avoid other exfoliants, scrubs and strong active ingredients for a few days.
• Skip saunas, steam rooms and very intense workouts for the rest of the day if your skin feels warm or sensitive.

Can You Combine Them?

Yes, and many clients do, but not usually on the same area in the same session unless your provider recommends it. A common approach is to alternate the two treatments month by month, or to use dermaplaning as a preparation step before a chemical peel. For deeper concerns such as acne scars, enlarged pores or loss of firmness, collagen-stimulating treatments like microneedling or laser treatments may be added to the plan.

Which Should You Choose?

• Choose microdermabrasion if your main concerns are congested pores, oiliness, rough texture or mild sun damage.
• Choose dermaplaning if you want an instant glow, have dry or sensitive skin, or want to remove facial fuzz for smoother makeup application.
• Choose both over time if you want an ongoing maintenance routine that keeps skin bright between other treatments.

Supporting Your Results at Home

Professional exfoliation works best when your daily routine supports it. Between appointments, use a gentle cleanser morning and night, follow with a moisturizer suited to your skin type and finish every morning with a broad-spectrum sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher. If you use an exfoliating product at home, such as a mild AHA or BHA, keep it to a few nights a week and stop it for several days before and after your facial so your skin is not over-exfoliated. Drinking enough water, getting good sleep and removing makeup before bed all help your skin stay smooth and clear longer, so your next treatment starts from a better baseline.

Exfoliating Facials at Tru Essence

Tru Essence Cosmetic & Medical Spa offers both options within our facial menu, including TRU Microderm and TRU Dermaplaning, along with TRU Cleanse, TRU Oxy Trio for breakout-prone skin and TRU SkinPen microneedling. Each facial includes a cleanse, a custom skin analysis and product recommendations. See the full list on our Cosmetic Spa page.

Conclusion

Microdermabrasion and dermaplaning are both safe, quick and effective ways to reveal fresher skin. Microdermabrasion is ideal for congestion and texture; dermaplaning is ideal for a smooth, radiant finish and fuzz-free skin. Your skin type, sensitivity and goals determine the better starting point, and a professional skin analysis will point you in the right direction.