Face abrasion is a form of skin rejuvenation. It removes the uppermost layer of the skin to allow new epidermal growth and replace damaged skin. This growth often provides the skin with a smoother, more youthful appearance. This treatment is known to even out pigmentation, remove fine lines, fade age spots and even lessen wrinkling. Currently, there are two different types of face abrasion treatments: dermabrasion and microdermabrasion.

Dermabrasion essentially scrapes away the epidermal layer of the skin. This is typically done with a rotating wire brush. As the brush is guided along the surface of the skin, it creates a controlled wound. The healing process allows new skin cells to form over the wound in a matter of anywhere between several days to over a week, according to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD).

Not as invasive as dermabrasion, microdermabrasion also uses the process of abrasion to rejuvenate the skin. But instead of a wire brush, microparticles are blown onto the skin to buff away some of the epidermal cells, explains the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS). Though no wound is created, the microparticles stimulate the growth of new skin cells, which can improve the appearance of the skin.

Both abrasion techniques provide more youthful looking skin. But since dermabrasion is more aggressive, it goes beyond improving the appearance of lines, wrinkles, age spots and sun damage. It can also lessen scarring and treat tattoos, notes AAD. Microdermabrasion is more effective with fine lines, age spots and sun damage.

Dermabrasion and microdermabrasion aren't without potential side effects. Dermabrasion may cause hyperpigmentation, hypopigmentation, thickening of the skin and even scarring. ASPS recommends contacting a health care provider if the wound becomes red, raised and itchy during the healing process. This may be a sign of scarring. Microdermabrasion may cause some redness, but this is usually temporary.

Though dermabrasion is more invasive than microdermabrasion, this form of skin rejuvenation does have its limitations, cautions AAD. Dermabrasion can help improve the appearance of scars, but it cannot eliminate them completely. Other forms of treatment may be necessary to further reduce the signs of scarring, such as bleaching creams, dermal fillers and chemical peels.