Pamela Hill Institute

We recently received this question from a student who is thinking about entering the medical spa industry and taking aesthetics training. It is a common question - many do think that dermabrasion and microdermabrasion are the same thing, and they are actually very different procedures.  The dictionary definition of dermabrasion is “the removal of acne scars, dermal nevi, or the like, by abrading” and most aestheticians are simply not licensed to perform dermabrasion. 

Microdermabrasion Is Non-Invasive

Microdermabrasion on the other hand is a procedure commonly performed by aestheticians and  is a skin resurfacing treatment that is gentle and takes off the top layer of skin through use of micro aluminum oxide crystals, or a diamond tipped wand.  This procedure is non-invasive and non-surgical and can be performed in the aesthetician’s office with no down time.  With microdermabrasion there are virtually no risks or side effects. It is well known to be one of the least invasive skin procedures for resurfacing.  There are, however, some clients who should not have microdermabrasion.  Those who are pregnant, are suffering from malignant tumors, active herpes lesions, are nursing, have been inaccurate for six months, are undergoing keratosis, have active rosacca or weeping acne.  Other clients generally have very positive results.

No Risks, No Side Effects

Because microdermabrasion has almost no risks or side effects it is extremely popular.  As a result it is painless, does not require an anesthetic, is very affordable, and helps skin look younger, healthy, and glowing.  Many clients say their skin looks close to perfect after microdermabrasion.

Dermabrasion Is A Surgical Procedure

Dermabrasion is of course a surgical procedure that is designed to remove skin imperfections, such as scars and most aestheticians are not qualified to perform this procedure.  The process used is abrading of the surface of the skin with fine sandpaper or wire brushes.  This should only be performed by a skilled and properly licensed health care professional.  The purpose of dermabrasion is to remove scar tissue and other imperfections that are more pronounced and require more extensive, more invasive efforts.  Dermabrasion can also be used for tattoo removal.

Who Should Consider Dermabrasion?

Dermabrasion should be considered, in consultation with a physician or plastic surgeon, if you have extremely serious scars or other imperfections that are causing you discomfort or embarrassment and it has already been determined that less invasive treatments will be successful.  Those who had tattooing performed while younger and have had a change of heart, or find that their youthful indiscretions are interfering with finding a professional career can also consult with a specialist to see if dermabrasion would be right for them.

Who Should Consider Microdermabrasion?

Microdermabrasion on the other hand can be considered by almost anyone, with the few exceptions listed above, who want to improve the appearance of their skin.  For microdermabrasion consult with your aesthetician and see if it is right for you.

Now that you know the difference, you can confidently make professional recommendations to your clients.