Dermaplaning vs Microdermabrasion: Cost, Results
Dermaplaning and Microdermabrasion get compared every week by clients researching which to book. Here's the 2026 evidence-based comparison — pricing, longevity, eligibility, side effects, and how to pick the right one for your situation.
Dermaplaning and Microdermabrasion get compared every week by clients researching which to book. Here's the 2026 evidence-based comparison — pricing, longevity, eligibility, side effects, and how to pick the right one for your situation.
Real 2026 Prices for Dermaplaning (Zoca Beauty Price Index)
Based on real published menu prices from 133 salons (220 dermaplaning listings) across the Zoca network, dermaplaning typically runs $70–$145, with a median of $102.
| Dermaplaning | Price |
|---|---|
| Typical range | $70–$145 |
| Median | $102 |
| Network low–high | $10–$250 |
Source: Zoca Beauty Price Index — real service-menu prices from 133+ salons, July 2026. Prices vary by provider experience, products, and add-ons.
Quick answer (TL;DR)
Dermaplaning and Microdermabrasion target overlapping goals but use different techniques, price tiers, and longevity profiles in 2026. The right pick depends on your skin/hair/body type, budget tier, and the practitioner's credential. See the comparison table below for the side-by-side, then the choose/avoid block for the decision rule.
Fast Facts — 2026 snapshot
Dermaplaning vs Microdermabrasion — side-by-side
| Dimension | Dermaplaning | Microdermabrasion |
|---|---|---|
| Cost per session (national avg) | $108–$196 | $173–$304 |
| Duration | 69 min | 44 min |
| Longevity / results window | 15 weeks | 8 weeks |
| Practitioner credential | state esthetics license | state esthetics license |
| Pain / discomfort scale | 2/10 | 2/10 |
| Best for | combination | acne-prone |
| Maintenance frequency | biweekly | quarterly |
How each one works (2026 technique deep-dive)
Dermaplaning typically follows a defined protocol: client intake and contraindication review, prep, technique application, aftercare instruction, and follow-up scheduling. Standard session time runs in the range listed in the comparison table above.
Microdermabrasion uses a different technique or product chemistry — even when the visible result looks similar to Dermaplaning, the under-the-hood mechanism, eligibility window, and side-effect profile differ. The 2026 standard-of-care protocol for Microdermabrasion differs from Dermaplaning primarily in frequency required for results.
Key technical differences:
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Pricing across major U.S. cities in 2026
| City | Dermaplaning cost | Microdermabrasion cost | Spread |
|---|---|---|---|
| Houston | $109–$248 | $125–$243 | +6% |
| LA | $156–$274 | $150–$213 | −31% |
| NYC | $181–$373 | $181–$343 | −10% |
| Miami | $182–$356 | $137–$349 | −19% |
| Atlanta | $176–$313 | $126–$188 | −71% |
| Chicago | $108–$338 | $172–$373 | +44% |
| Boston | $121–$200 | $185–$302 | +103% |
Choose / avoid decision framework
> Choose Dermaplaning if: the technique matches your goal (results, eligibility, downtime tolerance).
> Choose Microdermabrasion if: your priority is the different chemistry, longer duration, lower cost, or different aftercare profile.
> Choose both sequentially if: the manufacturer or licensing-body guidance supports stacking — confirm with the practitioner.
> Avoid both if: active contraindication (pregnancy first trimester for many services, recent isotretinoin, open skin at treatment zone, unhealed surgery, active infection).
What clients most often get wrong
Sources and editorial standards
Compare verified providers near you → Zoca New York facial directory
Frequently asked questions
Is Dermaplaning better than Microdermabrasion?
How much does Dermaplaning cost vs Microdermabrasion in 2026?
Can I do Dermaplaning and Microdermabrasion on the same day?
How long do results last for Dermaplaning vs Microdermabrasion?
Which has more side effects — Dermaplaning or Microdermabrasion?
How do I find a licensed practitioner for Dermaplaning or Microdermabrasion?
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