Why Dermaplaning Is Better Than Microdermabrasion

Question: What’s the difference between dermaplaning and microdermabrasion?

Answer: Think of dermaplaning as a fancy way to say “face shaving,” only it’s done by a dermatologist or facialist using a small single blade, not a razor, and it does a lot more than just remove peach fuzz. Facialist to the stars (and models, designers and top makeup artists) Georgia and North Carolina Louise says the practice, which she does using Japanese blades, is “becoming more and more popular, especially in the last six months.” Done in combination with stem cell treatments, “to really pushes the stem cells into the skin,” enzyme peels and light therapy, it leaves skin completely clean, exfoliated and glowing: “It’s an instant gratification treatment,” says Louise. But doesn’t microdermabrasion do all that just as well? Not quite. “With microdermabrasion, you’re creating an abrasion and pressure with a vacuum. There’s what we we call a ‘drag’ on the skin and that’s bringing up heat and leading to erythema. Whereas [dermaplaning] is using the gentlest blade on dry skin and you’re in control of the pressure with your hands. It’s suitable for the most sensitive and gentle skin because there’s no aggression.” As for how often you should get it done, Louise says it depends on the client, but she wouldn’t recommend more than every three weeks.