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Microdermabrasion vs. Microneedling: What’s Right for You?

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A woman receiving a microdermabrasion treatment from an aesthetician.

In the world of skincare treatments, microneedling and microdermabrasion are 2 popular options that aim to improve your skin’s appearance. 

But, which one is better? That’s a trick question. The answer is… both! 🤭

Both treatments have their benefits, and the right one for you will depend on your skin and the concern you’re looking to improve. 

Microdermabrasion can target dull skin, uneven tone and texture, and mild scarring or acne. Microneedling can work to treat acne scars, age spots, fine lines and wrinkles, and sagging skin.

We’re here to listen to your goals and discuss your expectations before you begin any treatment for the first time. A consultation is key to help determine which treatment is right for you and your skin. 

What Is Microdermabrasion?

You can think of microdermabrasion like a serious skin exfoliation—it helps buff off dead skin cells on the surface of your face, leaving room for new skin cells to glow. ✨

This treatment primarily focuses on the outer layer of the skin, helping reduce the appearance of mild acne scars, sun damage, and uneven skin tones.

Microdermabrasion uses a handheld device to apply tiny crystals or a diamond microdermabrasion tip onto the surface of your skin, helping gently exfoliate and remove dead skin cells.

During the exfoliation process, suction is used to remove the exfoliated skin and stimulate blood flow to the treated area. This suction also helps unclog pores, reduce blackheads, and promote an even skin tone.

At Iconic Beauty, we take your microdermabrasion treatment to the next level with the Bela MD system. Right after exfoliating, our skilled estheticians apply a carefully selected serum to your skin. Bela MD allows us to do even more, delivering powerful antioxidants while infusing your skin with hydrogen water. We’ll also use gentle microcurrents to massage and tone your facial muscles, which can enhance circulation and help with lymphatic drainage. 

Benefits of Microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion can be so, so beneficial to your skin! One of the best things about it is how it reveals your fresh and vibrant complexion. By gently sloughing off the outer layer of your skin, microdermabrasion promotes cellular turnover, giving your skin a radiant glow. 🌟

Out with the old, in with the new! 

In addition to enhancing the overall appearance of your skin, microdermabrasion can help: 

  • Reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and acne scars
  • Stimulate collagen production
  • Improve the absorption of skincare products

Do you lead a busy lifestyle? Microdermabrasion typically requires no downtime, so it can be a convenient option if your calendar is full.

Whether you’re looking to improve the texture and tone of your skin or address specific skin concerns, this treatment could be a great addition to your skincare routine.

A woman receiving a microneedling treatment from an aesthetician.

What Is Microneedling?

Microneedling goes beyond the surface and penetrates the skin to stimulate collagen production, and is also referred to as collagen induction therapy. This treatment is known for its ability to promote skin rejuvenation and enhance overall texture and tone. 

Microneedling can improve the appearance of:

  • Fine lines
  • Wrinkles
  • Acne scars
  • Hyperpigmentation 

During the treatment, a handheld device is used to gently apply tiny needles onto the surface of the skin to stimulate elastin and collagen production.

Similar to microdermabrasion, a serum or solution is typically applied after the treatment to nourish the skin and promote healing. This helps restore moisture balance and enhance the overall texture and tone of the skin.

Benefits of Microneedling

By creating tiny punctures in the skin’s surface, microneedling can stimulate the body’s natural healing response and lead to amazing results. Because microneedling penetrates deeper into the skin, this treatment can offer a range of advantages, including:

  • Smoother and firmer skin
  • Stimulated collagen production
  • Rejuvenated loose or sagging skin 
  • Minimized pore size

Microneedling also has the ability to increase the skin’s retention of serums or balms, so adding platelet-rich plasma (PRP) or vitamin C to the treatment can offer even more benefits. 

An infographic comparing the difference between microdermabrasion and microneedling.

What Is the Difference Between Microdermabrasion & Microneedling? 

While microneedling and microdermabrasion can address similar cosmetic concerns, there are key differences. Microneedling is considered more invasive, but like microdermabrasion, it typically doesn’t require downtime. However, microneedling may yield more significant results since it targets deeper layers of the skin. 

On the contrary, microdermabrasion is a noninvasive treatment with minimal discomfort and downtime, making it suitable for those seeking a quick and gentle solution. It’s a quick way to give your skin a softening and brightening boost.

Some other key differences between microdermabrasion and microneedling include:

  • Treatment areas: Microneedling can be performed on various areas of the body, including the face, scalp, hands, and body, whereas microdermabrasion is typically limited to the face and body. 
  • Exfoliation vs. collagen induction therapy: Microdermabrasion mainly affects the top layer of the skin, providing a superficial exfoliation. Microneedling works just below the skin’s surface to stimulate your body’s natural healing process and promote collagen production.
  • Skin recovery: While both treatments require minimal downtime, your skin may be more sensitive after a microneedling session. You will likely have to avoid cosmetics, sun exposure, swimming, and activities that cause you to sweat for a few days after microneedling.

Ultimately, the choice between microneedling and microdermabrasion depends on your specific skincare goals and preferences. 

Choose the Right Treatment for You

At Iconic Beauty Aesthetics, helping you choose the right treatment for your skin is our priority. Our team is here to guide you through the decision process, helping you weigh your options and offer our expertise so you can choose the best treatment for you. 

Whether you’re interested in exploring microdermabrasion, microneedling, or another treatment, a consultation is a key part of this process. Reach out to us today so we can help you decide which treatment could help you achieve your skin goals.

Written by Sarah Noble

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