Microdermabrasion is a noninvasive procedure where micro-crystals are used to gently exfoliate and remove the outermost layer of skin. As the procedure treats only the top layer of the skin, it is relatively painless and requires minimal recovery time. It is commonly used to treat dull complexion, discoloration, sun damaged skin, and fine lines and wrinkles.

Dermabrasion is the more aggressive counterpart of microdermabrasion. In dermabrasion, a wire brush or diamond wheel with rough edges is used to remove or “sand” away the upper layers of the skin. This skin resurfacing technique results in the growth of new layers of the skin which appear more youthful and vibrant. It is commonly used to treat scars, discoloration, sun damaged skin, and fine lines and wrinkles. As the procedure is more invasive, the results can be more significant than that achieved with microdermabrasion. However, the trade off is that the more invasive procedure generally requires anesthesia and a period of recovery post procedure.