Microdermabrasion vs Dermaplaning: What’s the Difference? (Professional Comparison Guide 2026)
If you are expanding your exfoliation services or considering advanced training, you may be asking:
What’s the difference between microdermabrasion and dermaplaning?
Both treatments remove dead skin cells, improve texture, and enhance product penetration. However, they differ significantly in technique, equipment, treatment experience, ideal skin types, and professional skill requirements.
Understanding these differences is essential for licensed estheticians practicing in Colorado — especially when building corrective skincare programs or selecting continuing education.
What Is Microdermabrasion?
Microdermabrasion is a device-based mechanical exfoliation treatment that removes the outermost layer of dead skin cells using controlled abrasion and suction.
Common systems include:
Diamond-tip microdermabrasion
Crystal microdermabrasion
The device exfoliates the stratum corneum while vacuum suction removes debris and stimulates mild circulation.
Because it is machine-assisted, treatment consistency depends largely on device settings and practitioner control of pressure and suction.
What Is Dermaplaning?
Dermaplaning is a manual exfoliation technique that uses a sterile, single-use surgical blade to remove:
Dead skin cells
Fine vellus hair (peach fuzz)
The blade is held at approximately a 45-degree angle and applied using controlled, feathered strokes while maintaining skin tension.
Unlike microdermabrasion, dermaplaning is entirely technique-driven and relies heavily on practitioner precision.
Key Differences at a Glance
Which Treatment Is More Aggressive?
When performed within the cosmetic scope:
Both treatments remain within the outer epidermis.
Neither should penetrate beyond superficial layers.
Microdermabrasion intensity can be adjusted through suction settings and the number of passes.
Dermaplaning intensity depends on blade angle, pressure, and the number of strokes.
Aggressiveness is controlled by professional judgment — not just the modality itself.
Best Candidates for Each Treatment
Microdermabrasion Is Often Ideal For:
Mild acne congestion
Oily skin types
Thickened or rough texture
Clients seeking gradual resurfacing
Because suction assists exfoliation, it can help with surface buildup and mild congestion.
Dermaplaning Is Often Ideal For:
Clients with vellus hair concerns
Dry or flaky skin
Event preparation (instant smoothness)
Enhancing chemical peel penetration
Dermaplaning provides an immediate, polished finish.
Treatment Experience & Downtime
Both treatments typically involve minimal downtime when performed properly.
Microdermabrasion:
Mild redness
Temporary tightness
Light suction sensation during treatment
Dermaplaning:
Mild redness
Immediate smooth texture
No machine noise
Post-treatment SPF is essential for both procedures.
Integration into Corrective Skincare Programs
Many medspas integrate both treatments into broader corrective plans.
Microdermabrasion is often used in:
Texture-refinement series
Maintenance exfoliation programs
Mild acne protocols
Dermaplaning is frequently used:
Prior to chemical peels
Before enzyme treatments
As part of advanced glow facials
Treatment selection depends on skin type, client goals, and professional training.
Scope of Practice in Colorado
In Colorado, esthetics services are regulated by the Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA).
Licensed estheticians may perform non-invasive exfoliation services — including microdermabrasion and dermaplaning — within their cosmetic scope of practice.
However:
Microdermabrasion requires completion of additional manual resurfacing training as defined by state rules.
Dermaplaning requires proper blade safety training and strict sanitation compliance.
Both procedures must remain superficial and non-medical in nature.
Operating within scope protects both client safety and professional licensure.
Income Potential Comparison in Denver
In the Denver metro area:
Microdermabrasion is commonly priced as a standalone service or facial add-on.
Dermaplaning often commands premium pricing due to skill level and demand.
Both treatments increase average ticket value and encourage consistent rebooking when offered in a structured series.
Which Training Should You Choose?
For estheticians building a corrective skincare career:
Microdermabrasion provides strong foundational device-based exfoliation skills.
Dermaplaning offers high perceived value and integrates seamlessly with chemical peel programs.
Many professionals choose to train in both modalities to maximize versatility and income potential.
Advance Your Exfoliation Expertise in Denver
Elite Aesthetics Academy offers both Microdermabrasion Training and Dermaplane Certification in Denver, providing hands-on education, guidance on complication prevention, and awareness of Colorado regulatory requirements.
Understanding the difference between these two exfoliation methods allows professionals to select treatments strategically — not simply follow trends.
In advanced esthetics, education builds both confidence and career growth.
👉 Explore 600-hour esthetician license program in Denver
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