What Does Dermabrasion Mean?

Dermabrasion is a type of surgery that uses a special, fast-spinning tool to scrape or sand off the top layers of your skin. Taking away the damaged outer skin helps your body grow new skin that looks smoother, firmer, and younger.

Doctors typically use dermabrasion to treat significant skin irregularities, including:

  • Deep acne scarring
  • Scars resulting from surgery or accidents
  • Pronounced facial lines and wrinkles
  • Extensive sun damage and age spots
  • Rhinophyma (a condition where the nose becomes red, thickened, and bulbous)
  • Precancerous skin patches (actinic keratoses)

What Does Microdermabrasion Mean?

Microdermabrasion is a much gentler, non-surgical option compared to dermabrasion. It also removes dead skin cells, but it does not go as deep. It is a good regular treatment for small skin problems.

Many patients choose microdermabrasion to address:

  • Early age spots and light sun damage
  • Fine lines and superficial wrinkles
  • Mild acne scarring
  • Clogged pores, blackheads, and enlarged pores
  • Uneven skin tone and dull texture
  • Minor skin blemishes

How and When Do You Use Dermabrasion vs. Microdermabrasion?

The choice between these two procedures often depends on your skin type and your lifestyle.

Dermabrasion is generally only recommended for individuals with fair skin. For those with darker complexions, the procedure carries a high risk of permanent scarring or significant changes in skin pigmentation (discoloration).

Microdermabrasion, on the other hand, is safe for all skin types and colors. It makes small changes and rarely causes scarring or color changes. However, it does not work well for bigger skin problems like deep wrinkles, stretch marks, or bad acne scars.

Recovery Considerations:

If you cannot take time off from work, microdermabrasion is the better option. The skin may appear pink for a few hours but usually heals completely within 24 hours. Dermabrasion requires a much longer period of downtime.

What Happens When You Are About to Get These Procedures?

Before getting either treatment, you need a check-up. Dermabrasion must be done by a trained doctor or plastic surgeon. Microdermabrasion can be done by a doctor, a plastic surgeon, or a licensed skin care specialist.

During your consultation, you and your doctor will discuss:

  • How the specific process is carried out.
  • Your personal goals and realistic expectations.
  • The potential benefits and risks.
  • Specific instructions on how to prepare for the procedure.

For dermabrasion, because it is a more involved surgery, the doctor will also look at your medical history, including any health problems, past surgeries, allergies, and if you use medicines, vitamins, alcohol, or tobacco. You will also talk about ways to keep you comfortable during the procedure, since dermabrasion needs local or general anesthesia.

In What Ways Does Dermabrasion Work?

Dermabrasion is performed as an outpatient procedure in the doctor's office, meaning you return home the same day. After cleaning your skin thoroughly, the doctor will provide medication to ensure your comfort. Depending on the size of the area, you may receive:

  • A numbing spray or anesthetic gel
  • Injected local anesthesia
  • Sedation or general anesthesia (to put you to sleep)

Once the area is numb, the doctor uses a fast-spinning tool with a wire brush or a diamond-covered wheel to gently take off the top layers of skin. After the procedure, a wet bandage is put on your skin to protect it while it starts to heal. The whole process can take a few minutes or up to an hour.

In What Ways Does Microdermabrasion Work?

Microdermabrasion is performed using one of two common methods:

  • Crystal Microdermabrasion: A wand sprays fine crystals across the skin to gently loosen dead cells, which are then vacuumed away.
  • Diamond-Tip Microdermabrasion: A wand with a diamond tip is moved over the skin to gently remove the surface layer. It works like a very fine sander to smooth the skin. A typical session takes 30 to 40 minutes. Unlike dermabrasion, you usually need several microdermabrasion sessions to get the results you want.

What comes next after these procedures?

After Dermabrasion:

Your skin will feel very sore, like a bad sunburn. Your doctor may give you medicine for the pain. You will need to go back to the doctor's office in a few days to have your bandages changed. The first stage of healing takes about 10 to 14 days, and your skin will look pink during this time. It can take up to three months for your skin color to go back to normal. Most people go back to work in one to two weeks.

After Microdermabrasion:

Your skin may feel dry, tight, and pink for about 24 hours. You can usually go back to your normal routine right away, but you should use a good moisturizer and avoid some skin products for a day or two as your doctor tells you.

Sun Protection:

For both procedures, sun protection is vital. You must wear broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher and protective clothing to prevent permanent damage to the new, sensitive skin.

What are the side effects of these treatments?

Common side effects (both):

  • Redness and swelling
  • Tightness or itching
  • Increased sensitivity to the sun
  • Temporary acne flare-ups (small white bumps)

Specific risks of dermabrasion:

Because it is a stronger treatment, dermabrasion has risks like permanent changes in skin color, infection, and scarring. Picking a skilled doctor is the best way to lower these risks.

What is the proper aftercare?

Following your doctor’s instructions is very important for a safe recovery.

Dermabrasion Aftercare:

  • Avoid alcohol for 48 hours.
  • Avoid aspirin or ibuprofen (Motrin) for one week.
  • Avoid swimming in chlorinated pools for one month.
  • Avoid strenuous activity for four to six weeks.
  • Do not smoke or expose the area to direct sunlight.

Microdermabrasion Aftercare:

  • Apply moisturizer frequently.
  • Stay out of direct sunlight for several days.
  • Consistently apply sunscreen.

Dermabrasion vs. Microdermabrasion

Dermabrasion and microdermabrasion are both popular ways to refresh your skin. Although their names are similar, they are quite different in how intense they are, how long recovery takes, and what skin issues they treat. This guide will help you understand each treatment.

Why choose Tender Palm Super-Speciality Hospital for Dermabrasion & Microdermabrasion in Lucknow, India?

Tender Palm Super-Speciality Hospital is one of the best hospitals for Dermabrasion & Microdermabrasion in Lucknow, India. Our experienced dermatologists and aesthetic specialists use advanced skin resurfacing techniques to improve skin texture, reduce scars, pigmentation, and fine lines safely. We ensure accurate skin evaluation, personalized treatment planning, and proper post-procedure care for optimal results. With expert aesthetic care and affordable pricing, our Dermabrasion & Microdermabrasion treatment cost is suitable for patients seeking high-quality skin rejuvenation in Lucknow, India.

To seek an Expert Consultation for Dermabrasion & Microdermabrasion in Lucknow, India:

Call us at +91-9076972161
Email at care@tenderpalm.com

Request an Appointment
Mon - Sat 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM IST

Our Experts

Awards & Accreditations