Microdermabrasion vs. Microneedling: A Detailed Comparison

Microdermabrasion and microneedling are non-invasive cosmetic treatments that address similar skin concerns using different technologies. Both have become standard offerings in skin-rejuvenating spa centers and clinics thanks to their effectiveness in treating a variety of issues, including fine lines, scars, and skin laxity.

This article examines the key differences between microdermabrasion and microneedling, providing a comprehensive overview of each procedure. Read on to discover which one suits you better.

Microdermabrasion Overview

Microdermabrasion is a non-invasive cosmetic treatment that uses mechanical abrasion to resurface the skin’s top layer, removing dead or damaged cells. A wand-like device is used to “sandpaper” the skin, gently exfoliating the surface by spraying tiny crystals on it or scraping off dead cells with a rough-textured diamond tip.

Microdermabrasion is a less aggressive offshoot of dermabrasion and a gentler alternative to chemical peels. The mildly abrasive process also stimulates collagen production, resulting in a gradual improvement of the skin’s texture and tone. It reduces minor to moderate imperfections on the face and body, such as fine lines, enlarged pores, uneven tone, and shallow acne scars.

While it is an excellent standalone procedure, it can also be combined with laser, chemical peels, microcurrent, and other skin-resurfacing treatments.

Microneedling Overview

Microneedling is a minimally invasive procedure that stimulates collagen by making tiny punctures on the skin’s surface. Hundreds of small, sterile needles on a pen-like device prick the skin, producing controlled micro-injuries that trigger the body’s healing mechanism and increase collagen production.

The treatment alleviates conditions on the face, body, and scalp, including wrinkles, acne scars, dark spots, large pores, stretch marks, and hair loss. Skin rejuvenation occurs gradually, with visible improvements developing over several months.

To deliver more effective results, skin experts often combine microneedling with treatments such as radiofrequency and LED light therapy or PRP, known as the “vampire facial”.

Microdermabrasion vs. Microneedling: What Are the Differences?

The table below highlights key differences between microdermabrasion and microneedling.

Microdermabrasion vs. Microneedling: Ideal Candidates

Although both treatments pose minimal health risks, they may cause certain complications, especially if you have a hormone imbalance (e.g., during pregnancy or breastfeeding) or an inflammatory skin condition. They are suitable for all skin types and tones.

The choice depends on your skin type, specific concerns, and the desired results.

Microdermabrasion

This gentle procedure can address mild to moderate skin issues, including fine lines and creases, age spots, sun damage, superficial acne scarring, and uneven tone or texture.

It is not a good standalone solution for severe skin conditions, such as melasma, deep wrinkles, and ice pick, boxcar, or rolling scars.

Microdermabrasion is also not recommended if you suffer from any of the following:

• Rosacea
• Eczema
• Psoriasis
• Active acne
• Skin allergy
• Skin inflammation
• Severe sunburn
• Pregnancy
• Breastfeeding
• Diabetes

Microneedling

You are a good candidate for microneedling if you struggle with premature lines and wrinkles, large pores, stretch marks, hyperpigmentation, keloid (raised) scarring, uneven skin tone, rosacea, and skin laxity.

Patients with the following conditions should avoid microdermabrasion:

• Skin infections
• Skin inflammation (e.g., eczema, dermatitis)
• Active acne
• Open sores or wounds
• Cold sores
• Warts
• Lupus
• Blood vessel problems
• Sunburned skin
• Skin allergies
• Pregnancy
• Breastfeeding
• Diabetes

Microdermabrasion vs. Microneedling: Benefits

Both are versatile cosmetic enhancements that simultaneously treat multiple skin issues, ranging from discoloration, acne scars, and rough texture to folds, creases, and wrinkles.

Microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion can address slight texture irregularities and post-inflammatory discoloration. It can treat the face, neck, hands, and other areas where aging signs or sun damage are most noticeable.

It offers the following benefits:

• Smoother skin (e.g., fine lines, mild scars)
• Even skin tone (e.g., dullness, brown spots)
• Brighter complexion
• Revitalized skin tone
• Reduced sun damage (e.g., sunspots)

This study also demonstrates that combining 5-Fluorouracil with microdermabrasion can alleviate symptoms of vitiligo, a skin condition characterized by patches of depigmented skin.

Microneedling

Microneedling offers a wide range of cosmetic and medical benefits and can be performed on the face, scalp, and body. It deeply rejuvenates the skin, supports hair loss treatments, and improves the absorption of topical medication.

You can expect the following benefits from microneedling:

• Stimulated collagen
• Skin repair
• Reduced lines, creases, and wrinkles
• Minimized pores
• Faded acne scars
• Smoother texture
• Reduced stretch marks
• Reduced hyperpigmentation
• Improved hair growth (e.g., effective for alopecia)
• Reduced hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating)
• Enhanced absorption of topical medication

Microneedling can be an effective treatment for mild rosacea. However, experts advise caution and strict medical supervision.

Microdermabrasion vs. Microneedling: Procedure

Microdermabrasion and microneedling are quick, walk-in procedures that require little preparation. Before your session, avoid skin peels, exfoliating scrubs, tanning, retinoid creams, numbing agents, and oil-based or harsh cleansers.

Microdermabrasion

One session typically lasts 15 to 60 minutes, depending on the treatment area size.

The procedure is painless and doesn’t require numbing cream. The provider first cleans the area and then moves the handpiece across the skin in all directions. A rough diamond tip gently “sandpapers” the surface or shoots out tiny crystals to polish the top skin layer and rub off dead cells and impurities. A built-in vacuum removes the debris, leaving the skin clean and smooth.

After the procedure, the provider may apply serums, as exfoliation enhances the penetration of active ingredients, such as vitamins C, E, and A.

Microneedling

A microneedling session typically lasts between 30 and 60 minutes, depending on the size of the treatment area and the specific skin concern being addressed. The procedure is more uncomfortable than microdermabrasion, so numbing cream is applied after cleansing to reduce discomfort. Most patients describe the sensation as mild prickling, tingling, or scratching.

The provider uses a dermaroller to create controlled micro-injuries that trigger wound healing and stimulate the production of collagen and elastin. This handheld device has rows of sterile needles (0.5 to 3 mm long) that can make up to 250 tiny holes per square centimeter.

After the treatment, revitalizing serums with hyaluronic acid and growth factors are applied to boost skin regeneration and take advantage of enhanced absorption.

Note: Some providers combine microneedling with chemical peels, while others pair microneedling with lasers to stimulate collagen synthesis.

Microdermabrasion vs. Microneedling: Results

Microdermabrasion and microneedling differ in terms of how fast they show results and the number of recommended follow-up treatments.

Microdermabrasion

Results are immediate and the skin instantly looks smoother, brighter, and more refreshed. While a single session may be sufficient, full benefits typically appear after a series of 5 to 6 treatments. Treatments are typically scheduled several weeks apart, depending on the skin's condition and the desired results.

Microneedling

Microneedling results are gradual but longer-lasting. You can see improvements after several weeks, but the full impact is visible after 3 to 6 months, which is the amount of time required for collagen regrowth.

Patients usually have up to 6 treatments, spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart. The number of sessions depends on the skin concern. The good news is that microneedling requires fewer touch-ups than microdermabrasion because it provides deeper skin rejuvenation.

Microdermabrasion vs. Microneedling: Aftercare

Proper aftercare minimizes the risk of side effects and alleviates temporary discomfort. After-treatment care is similar for both procedures, but you may need more time to recover from a microneedling session.

Follow these steps to prolong results and prevent complications:

• Avoid touching, pressing, or scratching the treated area to prevent irritation.
• Avoid tanning, direct sunlight, and hot baths for at least a week.
• Refrain from strenuous physical activity for 24 to 48 hours to reduce sweating.
• Keep the skin clean with mild, fragrance-free cleansers.
• Avoid perfumed skincare products and heavy makeup for at least 48 hours.
• Do not apply acne medications (e.g., benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or retinoids) for 5 to 7 days.
• Hydrate with light-weight, microbiome-friendly moisturizers containing ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, or panthenol.
• Use a cold compress to calm redness, swelling, or discomfort in the first few hours.
• Choose gentle cleansers with soothing ingredients such as aloe vera, chamomile, or cucumber extract.
• Avoid chemical peels, scrubs, and exfoliators for at least one week after treatment.
• Apply a broad-spectrum mineral sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to minimize UV damage and skin irritation due to increased photosensitivity.

Microdermabrasion vs. Microneedling: Side Effects

While both treatments are generally safe for healthy adults, temporary side effects may occur. These are usually mild and resolve on their own within a few days.

However, if symptoms worsen or persist, it’s important to seek immediate medical attention.

Microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion is one of the gentlest cosmetic procedures, requiring little to no downtime. Common side effects disappear after a few days and include:

• Tightness
• Tenderness
• Redness
• Swelling
• Slight skin irritation

Less common side effects include the following:

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Breakouts (e.g., pimples)
• Scabbing

Microneedling

Microneedling doesn’t involve serious complications and is considered safe for healthy adults. Still, it can cause temporary side effects that disappear after up to two weeks, depending on how deeply the needles were inserted under the skin.

You may experience the following:

• Redness
• Swelling
• Bruising
• Pimples (less common)
• Bleeding (less common)
• Oozing (less common)
• Scabbing

Microdermabrasion vs. Microneedling: Cost

Microneedling is typically more expensive than microdermabrasion; however, the overall cost varies depending on the area treated, the number of sessions, the device used, and any additional treatments (e.g., chemical peels, lasers).

These treatments are not usually covered by health insurance.

Microdermabrasion

According to RealSelf microdermabrasion reviews, the average cost is $166 per session, but the price can go up to $350.

The cost varies depending on the patient’s skin concern, desired effects, and the medical provider’s experience.

Microneedling

According RealSelf microneedling reviews, a single session can range in price from just $160 to as much as $800. 

At Vibrant Skin Bar, we offer three treatments tailored to suit individual skin concerns and beauty goals. Our experts use StemFactor, an Osmosis-designed medical-grade serum that enhances healing and boosts skin regeneration, and vitamin A paired with microneedling to promote cell turnover and collagen synthesis.

1. Microneedling – 60 minutes | $300
2. Microneedling with StemFactor – 60 minutes | $400
3. Microneedling with Vitamin A – 60 minutes | $450

Microdermabrasion vs. Microneedling FAQ

Many people have questions about microdermabrasion and microneedling. We will cover some of the most common, such as whether at-home devices are safe to use and if the two treatments can be combined for best results.

Are At-Home Devices Safe to Use?

At-home microneedling rollers and microdermabrasion devices may appear convenient, but they carry a higher risk of irritation, infection, hyperpigmentation, and even scarring.

These tools are of lower quality compared to the professional-grade equipment used in clinical settings, and the needles are shorter, duller, and harder to control.

Can Microdermabrasion and Microneedling Be Used Together?

Microdermabrasion and microneedling can be combined but not performed at the same time. Microdermabrasion is typically done first to exfoliate the skin and remove dead skin cells, allowing the microneedling device to penetrate more effectively.

It is recommended to wait a week or two between procedures to allow the skin to recover, which minimizes the risk of irritation or overstimulation. The provider determines the optimal healing timing based on your skin type, sensitivity, healing response, and overall skin condition.

This combination approach stimulates collagen production and enhances overall skin rejuvenation, making it especially effective in addressing severe signs of aging, hyperpigmentation, and uneven skin texture.

Note: Learn about Vivace microneedling, which pairs microneedling with radiofrequency energy to boost collagen and elastin production, and find out if Botox and microneedling go together.

Microdermabrasion vs. Microneedling: Which One Should You Choose?

The choice depends on your skin type, concerns, and the desired outcome.

Microdermabrasion is an excellent choice for addressing surface-level imperfections and minor skin issues, such as a dull complexion, sunspots, or fine lines. It is an ideal treatment for those seeking instant skin rejuvenation through gentle exfoliation.

Microneedling is a more intensive procedure that penetrates deeper into the skin to firm it up through a collagen boost. It does not deliver instant results, but the effects are longer-lasting.

Both procedures are FDA-approved and considered safe when performed by experienced medical providers. The best way to choose between the two treatments is to consult a skin expert who can evaluate your goals and recommend the most effective treatment plan.

Conclusion

Microdermabrasion and microneedling address various skin concerns caused by aging, sun damage, and oxidative stress. Both are suitable for various skin types and yield impressive results after several sessions. Combining them can be a game-changer if you wish to achieve noticeable improvements in skin texture and tone.

The choice between these two depends on the severity of the skin issue and the desired outcome. Contact the Vibrant Skin Bar team to determine which treatment fits your needs.