Two of our most popular treatments, explained side by side, so you can choose with confidence rather than guesswork.
Microdermabrasion and microneedling are two of the treatments we're asked to compare most often at Ro, and it's easy to see why, both are designed to support smoother, more refined-looking skin, but they work in genuinely different ways. Neither is universally "better." The right choice comes down to your specific skin concerns, how much downtime you're comfortable with, and what you're hoping to achieve. This guide walks through the real differences, so you can make a confident, well-informed choice, rather than picking based on whichever treatment sounds more impressive.
| Microdermabrasion | Microneedling | |
|---|---|---|
| How it works | Mechanical exfoliation of the skin's surface | Fine needles create micro-channels to trigger renewal |
| Depth | Surface-level | Deeper, structural |
| Best suited to | Dullness, surface texture, congestion | Acne scarring, fine lines, more persistent texture |
| Downtime | Minimal, skin may be slightly pink briefly | 24–48 hours of pinkness |
| Sessions needed | Can show results after one session | Best as a course, spaced 4–6 weeks apart |
| From | $119 | $299 |
Microdermabrasion is a mechanical exfoliation treatment that gently removes surface build-up and dead skin cells, designed to reveal a smoother, more polished complexion underneath. It's a comfortable, low-downtime treatment, and many clients notice a visible improvement after a single session, which makes it a popular choice for a quick refresh or as a regular part of an ongoing skin routine. At Ro, it's available as Express, Deluxe, or paired with LED Light Therapy, depending on how much time you have and whether you'd like the added benefit of hydration or LED alongside the resurfacing itself.
Because it works on the outermost layer of skin, microdermabrasion is generally considered a gentler treatment, which is part of why it suits clients who are newer to professional skin treatments, or who want something they can comfortably book on a lunch break with no visible after-effects.
Microneedling uses fine needles to create controlled micro-channels within the skin, which is designed to trigger the skin's own healing response and encourage collagen production. It works at a deeper level than microdermabrasion, which is why it tends to be recommended for more persistent concerns like acne scarring or fine lines, rather than surface-level dullness alone. It generally involves more downtime and works best as a course of treatments rather than a single visit. At Ro, this is performed using Dermapen 4 with hyaluronic acid, and each session is followed by a calming recovery protocol to support your skin afterwards.
As a general guide, microdermabrasion tends to be the better fit if your concerns are mostly surface-level, and you're after a treatment that fits easily into a busy schedule.
Microneedling tends to be recommended when concerns run a little deeper, or when previous surface-level treatments haven't made the difference you were hoping for.
Both treatments can generally be adapted for sensitive skin, though this is very individual. Microdermabrasion's intensity can be adjusted depending on the option chosen, while microneedling's suitability depends more on your skin's current condition, including whether it's currently experiencing any active irritation or breakouts. Either way, this is exactly the kind of detail we talk through at consultation before recommending anything, rather than assuming one approach suits everyone.
Microdermabrasion has the edge here. Most clients experience little to no visible downtime, with skin sometimes slightly pink immediately after treatment that settles within a few hours. This makes it a genuinely flexible option if you have plans later the same day. Microneedling involves a more noticeable recovery period, typically 24 to 48 hours of pinkness similar to mild sun exposure, which is worth factoring in if you have an event or commitment coming up. Neither downtime period is severe, but it's a real practical difference worth planning around.
Microneedling is the more intensive of the two, both in terms of the treatment itself and the depth at which it works. This isn't a downside, it's simply what makes it more effective for deeper, more persistent concerns that surface-level exfoliation alone won't meaningfully change. Microdermabrasion is gentler, which makes it a comfortable option for regular maintenance or for clients newer to professional skin treatments who'd prefer to ease in before considering something more involved.
Yes, many clients do, just not in the same session. It's common to incorporate both into an overall skin plan over time, for example using microdermabrasion for regular monthly upkeep between periodic microneedling courses aimed at a specific concern. Some clients also add LED Light Therapy alongside either treatment, since it's a gentle, non-invasive way to support the skin's recovery. We can help you build a plan that makes sense for your skin and your goals, rather than treating every visit the same way.
If your main concern is dullness, surface texture or general congestion, and you'd prefer minimal downtime, microdermabrasion is a sensible starting point, particularly if you're after a quick, reliable refresh with no real planning required around your schedule. If you're dealing with more persistent concerns like acne scarring or fine lines, and you're comfortable with a short recovery period in exchange for more meaningful, longer-term change, microneedling may be more appropriate. If you're still unsure, that's completely normal, most clients are, and it's exactly what your consultation is for. We'll look at your actual skin, ask about your goals, and make a genuine recommendation rather than steering you toward whichever treatment happens to be more expensive.
Neither is universally better, they're designed for different things. Microdermabrasion works on the skin's surface, while microneedling works more deeply to support collagen renewal. The right choice depends on your specific skin and goals.
Not in the same session, but many clients incorporate both into an overall skin plan over time, for example alternating between the two depending on what their skin needs at each visit.
Microneedling is generally the more suitable option for acne scarring, since it works more deeply to support the skin's structural renewal. Microdermabrasion is better suited to surface-level dullness and texture.
If you're new to professional skin treatments and unsure where to start, microdermabrasion is often a gentler entry point. We're always happy to talk through your specific skin and goals to help you decide.
Still deciding between the two?
We're happy to talk through your skin and help you choose, no pressure either way.