Microdermabrasion vs Dermabrasion: Which Treatment Is Right for You?

Microdermabrasion and Dermabrasion Are Different Treatments

Microdermabrasion and dermabrasion sound alike, but they are not the same treatment. Microdermabrasion is a gentle, non-invasive exfoliation that polishes the top layer of your skin. Dermabrasion is a surgical procedure that removes deeper layers of skin and requires a medical provider, anesthesia and significant recovery time.

Most people looking for smoother texture and a brighter glow mean microdermabrasion. If you see terms like "microderm" or "crystal-free microdermabrasion", they are talking about the gentle version.

What Microdermabrasion Does

Microdermabrasion uses a controlled stream of fine particles or a diamond-tipped wand to remove dead skin cells from the surface. It polishes your skin, improves texture and tone, and gives you an instant glow. The treatment is comfortable, requires no downtime, and works well for rough patches, dullness, clogged pores and mild sun damage.

Effects are mild and temporary. Microdermabrasion does not remove deep scars, wrinkles or pigmentation.

At KRIDO Wellness, the Microdermabrasion Facial is a refining, skin-smoothing treatment that gently exfoliates to reveal a brighter, more radiant complexion. It is ideal if you want to improve skin texture, tone and overall glow with a non-invasive, refreshing facial. The treatment is $150 and includes red light therapy and lymphatic drainage massage. Research suggests red light may support collagen, and lymphatic drainage can temporarily reduce puffiness.

For optimal results, many clients return every four to six weeks. Your esthetician will recommend a schedule based on your skin and goals.

What Dermabrasion Does

Dermabrasion is a surgical resurfacing procedure. A medical provider uses a rotating instrument to remove the outer layers of skin, down into the dermis. It is used for deeper acne scars, significant wrinkles and other skin irregularities. You will need local or general anesthesia, and recovery can take weeks to months. Your skin will be raw, red and sensitive during healing.

Dermabrasion is a medical treatment, not a spa service. If you are considering it, talk to a dermatologist or plastic surgeon.

How They Compare

Microdermabrasion suits someone who wants a refreshed, polished complexion with no disruption to their day. Dermabrasion suits someone with deeper skin concerns who is prepared for a medical procedure and recovery period.

What a Microdermabrasion Visit at KRIDO Looks Like

You start with a consultation. Your esthetician reads your skin, discusses your goals and recommends the best facial for you. Every visit starts with a consultation where we look at your goals and build your plan. You pay for the facial.

During the Microdermabrasion Facial, your esthetician uses a controlled exfoliation technique to remove dead cells and smooth your skin. The treatment is gentle and relaxing. Afterward, you receive red light therapy, which research suggests may support collagen, followed by lymphatic drainage massage, which can temporarily reduce puffiness.

Most clients leave with smoother, brighter-looking skin and no downtime. Many clients notice their makeup applies more evenly and their skin feels softer immediately.

I had an amazing experience at KRIDO and I can’t wait to go back for more! Their space is beautiful and Amber is is very knowledgeable. This will be my new go to spot for facials!

Jennifer Allen, Google review

What a great experience! This was my first facial ever. Being a guy I wasn’t sure what to expect. I was welcomed by Kristina and Amber. Very nice and professional. They both went over their services and did a great job explaining what everything meant. As for the facial. It was amazing. Super relaxing. Did a skin test to be able to tell me what I could be doing to help promote healthy skin and prevent aging. Super knowledgeable. The different gels felt great they even said I had pretty good skin. Who would have thought. Then to top it off I got a little preview of cryo therapy to help shape my face and body. Very cool tech. Overall 10 out of 10. I’d say I’m glowing

Robin Rothenbach, Google review

Is Microdermabrasion Right for You?

Microdermabrasion works well if you want to improve texture, reduce dullness, minimize the look of pores or help makeup sit more smoothly. It is comfortable, requires no downtime and fits easily into your schedule.

It is not the right choice for deep acne scars, significant wrinkles or medical skin conditions. For those concerns, talk to a medical provider about options like dermabrasion, laser resurfacing or other medical treatments.

KRIDO Wellness offers microdermabrasion as part of a complete facial experience. Each treatment is customized to your skin and includes red light therapy and lymphatic drainage.

If you have active skin infections, open wounds or certain medical conditions, we will review your health history at the consultation to confirm the treatment is safe for you.

Other Options at KRIDO

If microdermabrasion does not match your goals, KRIDO offers other facials built on Circadia professional skincare:

• Dermaplaning Facial ($150): removes dead skin cells and fine vellus hair to instantly smooth texture and reveal a brighter, more refined complexion.
• Microneedling Facial ($300): stimulates collagen and elastin production to improve fine lines, acne scars, enlarged pores, uneven texture and discoloration over a series of treatments.
• Anti-Aging Facial ($125): exfoliating, brightening and firming treatment with peptides and antioxidants, ideal for fine lines, pigmentation and dry skin.
• Rosacea & Acne Facial ($125): designed to calm redness and congestion, with a pre and post biotic mask.

You can explore the full facial menu at kridowellness.com/facials.

Every facial at KRIDO includes red light therapy and lymphatic drainage massage. Your esthetician will recommend a treatment plan based on your skin, typically every two to six weeks depending on your goals.

Microdermabrasion in Downtown St. Petersburg

KRIDO Wellness is located at IMAGE Studios in downtown St. Petersburg, 11 7th St N, Suite 220. Free three-hour parking is available right in front on 7th Street North, with additional free two-hour parking along Central Avenue North.

Each of our estheticians has 30 years of esthetics experience. The studio is open Monday through Saturday, 9 AM to 6 PM, by appointment.

If you are in Gulfport, South Pasadena, Pinellas Park, St Pete Beach, Treasure Island, Seminole or nearby, KRIDO serves your area.

Start with a Consultation

If you are not sure which facial is right for you, book a Skin Consultation + Facial. Your esthetician will assess your skin, discuss your goals and perform the facial that matches what you want to achieve. Every visit starts with a consultation where we look at your goals and build your plan. You pay for the facial.

Book your visit at kridowellness.com/book.

Frequently asked questions

Is microdermabrasion the same as dermabrasion?

No. Microdermabrasion is a gentle, non-invasive exfoliation performed by an esthetician with no downtime. Dermabrasion is a surgical procedure performed by a medical doctor that removes deeper layers of skin and requires weeks of recovery.

Does microdermabrasion hurt?

No. Microdermabrasion is comfortable and relaxing. Most clients describe it as a gentle polishing sensation with no pain.

How long does a microdermabrasion facial take at KRIDO?

Every facial at KRIDO includes the treatment itself plus red light therapy and lymphatic drainage massage. Your esthetician will walk you through the full experience at your consultation.

Can I wear makeup after microdermabrasion?

Yes. There is no downtime. Many clients notice their makeup applies more smoothly immediately after treatment.

How often should I get microdermabrasion?

For optimal skin health, KRIDO generally recommends a facial every four to six weeks. Your esthetician will personalize your schedule based on your skin goals and condition.

What is the difference between microdermabrasion and dermaplaning?

Microdermabrasion uses fine particles or a diamond-tipped wand to exfoliate the surface. Dermaplaning uses a sterile blade to remove dead skin cells and fine vellus hair. Both are gentle, non-invasive treatments with no downtime, and both are available at KRIDO.