Beautiful and happy young woman sitting in a medical chair, smiling as she looks in the mirror, satisfied after a successful beauty treatment such as microneedling, dermaplaning, or hyaluronic acid fillers.

Microneedling vs. Dermaplaning: What’s the Difference?

Choosing the right facial treatment can be overwhelming when many options promise smoother, younger-looking skin. Two standout choices — microneedling and dermaplaning — offer unique benefits, but they work in completely different ways. So, how do you know which one is right for you?

At SkinSmart Dermatology in Sarasota, FL, our board-certified dermatologists and licensed estheticians deliver results-driven care tailored to your skin’s needs. Led by Dr. Elizabeth F. Callahan, a double board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon, SkinSmart offers both microneedling and dermaplaning treatments using advanced tools and technology. 

What Are the Benefits of Microneedling and Dermaplaning?

Both procedures help rejuvenate your skin, but the methods and outcomes vary. Here’s a breakdown of what each treatment addresses:

Benefits of Microneedling:

  • Stimulates collagen and elastin for firmer, smoother skin.
  • Improves acne scars and uneven texture.
  • Minimizes large pores and fine lines.
  • Reduces hyperpigmentation and sun damage.
  • Boosts absorption of skincare products.

Benefits of Dermaplaning:

  • Removes dead skin cells and surface debris.
  • Eliminates peach fuzz (vellus hair) for a polished appearance.
  • Improves makeup application and skin texture.
  • Promotes a radiant glow with no downtime.
  • Gentle enough for sensitive skin types.

Both options reveal smoother, more radiant skin, but they achieve this through different mechanisms and outcomes.

How Is Microneedling Different from Dermaplaning?

While both treatments enhance your complexion, they use different techniques and tools. Understanding how each works can help you make the right choice:

  • Microneedling uses a handheld pen-like device, such as SkinPen®, to create controlled micro-injuries in the skin. These microchannels trigger the body’s healing process and promote collagen production.
  • Dermaplaning uses a sterile surgical blade to gently exfoliate the outermost layer of dead skin and remove peach fuzz. It’s a manual exfoliation technique that causes no trauma to the skin.

If you’re concerned about acne scars or signs of aging, microneedling may be the best choice for you. If you’re looking for an instant glow and smoother makeup application, dermaplaning could be ideal.

Can You Combine Microneedling and Dermaplaning?

In many cases, these treatments can complement each other beautifully:

  • Exfoliating with dermaplaning first can help clear the way for deeper microneedling penetration.
  • Combining both treatments in a customized plan may enhance your results and prolong your skin’s clarity.

Your provider at SkinSmart Dermatology will assess your skin to determine the most effective plan tailored to your skin type and concerns.

Your Smoothest Skin Starts Here

Is microneedling or dermaplaning right for you? Call 941-308-7546 to speak with our expert team and learn which exfoliation treatment can help you achieve your best skin yet.

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