What is Dermaplaning?

Dermaplaning utilizes a sterile surgical scalpel to gently scrape off the top layer of dull, dead skin cells. Sounds scary, right? But don’t worry; I’ve been doing this for quite some time, so you’ll be in safe hands!

Who Is A Good Candidate for Dermaplaning?

Healthy individuals who want brighter, softer skin are good candidates for dermaplaning. It’s an excellent treatment for those with drier skin and those with lots of “peach fuzz” on the face. It’s not recommended for those with severe cystic acne or active and open pustules (white heads)—wait for it to clear up prior to trying out this treatment. It’s also a favorite of my pregnant and nursing clients who want facial exfoliation without the harsh chemicals that can pass the blood/skin barrier and potentially harm their babies.

How Is Dermaplaning Performed?

I first clean and dry your skin. Next, I’ll hold an area of your facial skin taut with one hand and hold the blade in the other hand. With swift, short strokes, the dead skin cells and peach fuzz are removed. It’s painless and feels a bit like shaving your legs. The whole treatment takes about 20-30 minutes. About 21 days’ worth of skin cell build-up is removed.

Dermaplaning vs. Microdermabrasion

Although both treatments will help brighten the skin and remove dead skin cells, microdermabrasion essentially “sands” and suctions away dead skin cells. It also cleans out the pores around the chin, mouth and nose. In comparison, dermaplaning “scrapes” away the dead skin cells with the top layer of skin, removing vellus hairs with it.

Both dermaplaning and microdermabrasion are excellent treatments for all skin types, so the choice of one over the other often boils down to your personal preference.

What Should I Expect After Dermaplaning?

Dermaplaning is a safe procedure with no down time. It aids in product penetration and acts as a treatment booster when combined with other services. The exfoliation helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines and helps to brighten dull and discolored skin. The removal of the vellus hairs (“peach fuzz”) rids the skin of oil and dirt-trapping hairs, and creates a silky smooth surface that allows your foundation to almost glide on.

I recommend that you wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 35 after your treatment, as your skin may be more sensitive. Although redness after treatment is not typical, it can occur. If it does, it will subside within a couple of hours.