 
Microdermabrasion and microneedling are two popular ways to improve texture, dullness and early signs of aging. They sound alike, but they work in very different ways. Comparing microdermabrasion vs microneedling side by side, including results and recovery, makes it easier to pick the treatment that matches your goal.
Learn more about microdermabrasion at PURE and microneedling at PURE.
Key Takeaways
- ✓Microdermabrasion exfoliates the surface for smoother, brighter skin with little downtime.
- ✓Microneedling creates tiny controlled channels that support collagen over a series.
- ✓Microneedling is usually the stronger choice for depressed acne scars.
- ✓Both are planned around your skin type, goals and schedule.
What Is Microdermabrasion?
Microdermabrasion is a noninvasive exfoliation treatment that removes dead cells from the outermost layer of skin. A device with fine crystals or a diamond tip gently exfoliates the surface, while suction lifts away the loosened cells. People often choose it for dullness, rough texture and mild surface discoloration.
Benefits of Microdermabrasion
- ✓Removes dead skin cells and surface buildup
- ✓Brightens dull looking skin
- ✓Smooths rough texture
- ✓Softens the look of mild surface discoloration
- ✓Usually involves minimal recovery
Clinical research has examined improvements in texture and photoaging after microdermabrasion, and results vary between people. See what to expect before and after microdermabrasion.
What Is Microneedling?
Microneedling is a minimally invasive treatment that uses fine, sterile needles to create tiny controlled channels in the skin. This starts the body’s natural repair response and supports collagen, the protein that helps keep skin firm and smooth.
Benefits of Microneedling
- ✓Improves the look of certain acne scars
- ✓Softens fine lines
- ✓Supports natural collagen production
- ✓Improves uneven texture
- ✓Gradual, natural looking rejuvenation
A systematic review found evidence supporting microneedling for acne scar appearance, although outcomes differ between patients and methods. Our microneedling recovery guide shows what the days afterward look like.
Microdermabrasion vs Microneedling: Key Differences
The main difference is depth. Microdermabrasion works on the surface, while microneedling reaches deeper to start a repair response. They are different procedures with different goals, so choose based on your main concern rather than popularity.
| Feature | Microdermabrasion | Microneedling |
|---|---|---|
| How it works | Surface exfoliation with crystals or a diamond tip | Fine needles create controlled micro channels |
| Main goals | Dullness, rough texture, mild discoloration | Acne scars, fine lines, texture, firmness |
| Recovery | Minimal; brief pinkness or tightness | A few days of redness, mild swelling or dryness |
| Sessions | Often a regular series for upkeep | Usually a series spaced several weeks apart |
| Results | Brighter, smoother skin soon after | Gradual change as collagen builds |
PURE MEDICAL SPA CHICAGO
Smoother Skin, Matched to Your Goal
Ask our team whether microdermabrasion or microneedling fits your skin.
Which Treatment Helps Acne Scars More?
Microneedling is often the stronger option for certain depressed acne scars, because it supports collagen and helps skin rebuild over time. Microdermabrasion mainly treats the surface. It may soften superficial unevenness, but it is generally less effective for deeper scarring. Your provider assesses the scar type first. Read treating acne scars with laser, microneedling or a chemical peel.
Which Treatment Helps Fine Lines and Wrinkles?
Both can help aging skin look fresher. Microdermabrasion clears surface buildup so skin looks smoother, while microneedling encourages collagen that may gradually soften fine lines and mild wrinkles. Neither removes deeper wrinkles. For movement lines, injectables such as Botox may be part of the plan.
Which Treatment Helps Uneven Skin Tone?
Microdermabrasion may help dullness and mild surface discoloration by removing built up cells. Microneedling may improve some pigment and texture concerns, but it can also trigger unwanted pigment changes in skin that is prone to them. The cause of discoloration and your skin type should guide the choice. For stubborn pigment, a VI Peel may also be discussed.
Recovery, Results and Number of Sessions
Microdermabrasion usually has minimal downtime, with brief redness, tightness or sensitivity. Microneedling usually needs more recovery, and redness, mild swelling, dryness and sensitivity are possible while skin heals. Both may need several sessions, and the schedule depends on your skin and goals.
Can You Combine Them?
Yes, in a planned series on separate visits, not on the same day. A provider may alternate them or add a topical such as Ariessence after microneedling. You can also compare microneedling vs RF microneedling and HydraFacial vs microdermabrasion.
Which Treatment Should You Choose at PURE?
Consider microdermabrasion for surface exfoliation, dullness and rough texture. Consider microneedling for certain acne scars, uneven texture and early signs of aging. At PURE Medical Spa, your provider looks at your skin, history and schedule and explains both options honestly, so the decision is based on assessment, not trends. If you are curious about a third option that adds serums, read DiamondGlow microdermabrasion benefits.
Visit PURE Medical Spa Across Chicagoland
PURE Medical Spa welcomes you at five convenient clinics in Chicago and the suburbs. Every PURE clinic offers microdermabrasion and microneedling, so you can pick the location and visit time that fit your schedule.
PURE Medical Spa Gold Coast (N. Dearborn), Chicago
875 N Dearborn St, Suite 300, Chicago, IL 60610
Book OnlineCall or Text 312.312.7873Naperville 331.283.0440
Frequently Asked Questions
Is microdermabrasion the same as microneedling?
No. Microdermabrasion exfoliates the surface of the skin, while microneedling uses fine needles to create controlled channels that support collagen.
Which is better for acne scars, microdermabrasion or microneedling?
Microneedling is often more suitable for depressed acne scars. Microdermabrasion mainly helps surface texture and mild unevenness.
Does microneedling have more downtime than microdermabrasion?
Usually, yes. Microneedling can cause a few days of redness and mild swelling, while microdermabrasion often causes only brief pinkness.
Can I do microdermabrasion and microneedling together?
They can be part of one plan, alternated on separate visits. Your provider sets the spacing based on how your skin recovers.
How many sessions will I need?
Both usually give the nicest results as a series. The number depends on your skin concern, treatment depth and goals.
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Safety note: Neither treatment suits everyone. Avoid treatment over active infections, open wounds or irritated skin. Microneedling may be unsuitable for people with bleeding disorders, weakened immunity, a history of keloid scarring or certain skin conditions, and microdermabrasion needs caution with rosacea and very sensitive skin. Seek medical attention for increasing pain, spreading redness, pus, fever or unusual swelling after a procedure. This article is educational and does not replace a medical assessment.
References
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration: Microneedling devices
- National Library of Medicine: Microdermabrasion, StatPearls
- National Library of Medicine: Microneedling for acne scarring systematic review
