Published on June 1, 2023
If you’re currently dealing with dry skin and signs of aging, someone has probably suggested getting microdermabrasion. While others say hydrodermabrasion is much better.
So, which is it really? Is hydrodermabrasion really better than microdermabrasion?
First off, hydrodermabrasion is a type of microdermabrasion. It works by exfoliating and moisturizing your skin to make it plumper, brighter, and younger-looking.
While there had been lots of research on microdermabrasion, hydrodermabrasion is a relatively new concept. In general, the latter is considered the milder version of microdermabrasion. Though, it also offers less dramatic results.
To help you gauge which procedure is best for you, we made this comparative guide.
What is Hydrodermabrasion Facial?
As its name suggests, hydrodermabrasion is a cosmetic procedure that uses a liquid solution to exfoliate your skin and infuse nourishing serums.
It uses a specialized pen-shaped device that sprays a liquid solution into your skin. In most cases, this solution is just distilled water or saltwater. Though some spas may also add alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) to the solution.
The pressure from this spraying action with the exfoliating properties of AHA and salt peels away your skin’s top layer. All the dirt and dead skin cells are then suctioned off, revealing the younger skin underneath.
Once your skin is fully exfoliated, it’s then infused with moisturizing serum. Hyaluronic acid is often used. Though your aesthetician may also add other types of serums depending on your skin’s needs.
In some cases, you can also opt to include an oxygen infusion. This hydrates your skin, making it look plumper, smoother, and younger-looking.
The entire process takes less than an hour and requires very minimal downtime.
What is Microdermabrasion?
A microdermabrasion procedure is pretty similar to hydrodermabrasion. Except, it uses microcrystals instead of a liquid solution.
First, microcrystals are sprayed on your skin using a pen-like device. This has an abrasive effect that gently sands away the top layers of your skin. Then the debris, dead skin cells, dirt, and bacteria are all siphoned off to reveal the healthier skin underneath.
In some cases, fine particles of aluminum oxide or sodium bicarbonate are used to achieve this abrasive effect.
The procedure is then capped off with a moisturizer and sunscreen.
The entire procedure also lasts less than an hour and requires minimal downtime.
Hydrodermabrasion vs. Microdermabrasion
The biggest difference between hydrodermabrasion and microdermabrasion is the exfoliating substance used.
As mentioned, hydrodermabrasion uses a liquid solution to peel away your skin’s top layer and microdermabrasion uses microcrystals.
In addition, a hydrodermabrasion procedure involves serum infusions.
So while both are effective at exfoliating your skin, they offer different results and long-term benefits.
Let’s compare their pros and cons as well as their cost and recovery time.
Benefits
Since hydrodermabrasion uses a liquid solution, it exfoliates the skin without irritating or drying it out. The serum infusions also create a hydrating and moisturizing effect.
Because of this, hydrodermabrasion can:
- hydrate the skin
- reduce fine lines and wrinkles
- shrink pores
- fade dark spots
- evens out skin tone
- stimulate blood flow to the face
- improve the appearance of acne scars
Microdermabrasion, on the other hand, uses microcrystals which provide deeper exfoliation. This makes it ideal if you want to address specific skin conditions rather than just improve your skin’s overall appearance.
Some of the skin conditions microdermabrasion can help with include:
- sun damage
- fine lines and wrinkles
- melasma
- blackheads
- acne
- acne scars
- hyperpigmentation
- uneven skin tone
Results
Both hydrodermabrasion and microdermabrasion offer instant results. Most people have reported smoother, brighter, and younger-looking skin immediately after the procedure. But you’ll need multiple sessions if you’re looking for long-term results.
Side Effects
Both procedures are generally safe. Though, some people may experience:
- skin redness
- minor bruising (especially if you have thin skin or are taking blood-thinning medications)
- flaky skin
All these usually only last for a few hours to a few days. Depending on your skin’s sensitivity, you may also experience acne flare-ups for a few days after the procedure.
However, microdermabrasion tends to cause more severe redness and flaking than hydrodermabrasion.
Recovery Time
Microdermabrasion and hydrodermabrasion are non-invasive procedures. So they both require minimal downtime. You can go back to your usual activities immediately after the procedure.
But since microdermabrasion abrades the skin, it can take a longer time for the redness and bruising to go away.
Cost
A basic hydrodermabrasion can cost anywhere from $100 to $200 per session depending on the location. While a microdermabrasion session averages $167 according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.
So, Which is Better?
At the end of the day, it all boils down to your skin’s needs and personal preference.
If you have sensitive skin, a hydrodermabrasion is a more practical choice since it’s more gentle on the skin. But if you’re looking to get rid of a specific skin concern, you’ll need a much more aggressive treatment like microdermabrasion.
Still can’t decide which procedure to go for? Our aestheticians may help. Book a consultation today!
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About The Author
Judy Ponio has been writing about health and beauty topics for years. As an experienced writer, she makes sure to only use information from reputable sources and peer-reviewed studies. Her writing has also appeared on various US-based sites.
