What Is Dermabrasion/Dermaplaning?

Similar to a chemical peel, dermabrasion is a procedure that removes fine wrinkles and/or minimizes scars on the skin. The difference between a chemical peel and dermabrasion, however, is the method used. Dermabrasion involves the surgeon utilizing a high speed rotating brush to remove the top layer of skin. The size and depth of the scars, as well as the degree of wrinkling, determine the appropriate level of skin that will be surgically sloughed.

Dermaplaning is used to treat deep acne scars with a hand-held instrument called a dermatome. The dermatome resembles an electric razor and has an oscillating blade that moves back and forth to evenly "skim" off the surface layers of skin that surround the craters, or other facial defects.

Both dermabrasion and dermaplaning can be performed on small areas of skin, or on the entire face. They can be used alone, or in conjunction with other procedures. Neither treatment, however, will remove all scars and flaws, or prevent aging.

Who can benefit from dermabrasion or dermaplaning?

Men and women of all ages can benefit from dermabrasion and dermaplaning. Important factors that help to determine the effectiveness of both treatments include the following:

• Skin type
• Skin coloring
• Medical history