Dermaplaning is an increasingly popular skincare treatment that claims to exfoliate and rejuvenate skin. But is Dermaplaning right for you? Understanding the procedure, benefits, and considerations can help determine if trying Dermaplaning could achieve your skincare goals or if other options may be better suited.
What Is Dermaplaning?
Dermaplaning is a manual exfoliation method performed by an esthetician using a specialized single-use surgical scalpel to gently shave the surface layer of skin. The scalpel removes fine vellus facial hair or “peach fuzz” along with accumulated dead skin cells on the face. Some Dermaplaning treatments also incorporate chemical exfoliants. The procedure does not involve any machines and takes around 45 minutes to complete. It aims to reveal smoother, brighter skin once the outer debris layer is removed.
What Skin Concerns Can It Address?
Proponents claim Dermaplaning addresses various skincare concerns:
- Exfoliation – Removes dead cells and vellus hair for skin renewal
- Smoothing – Refines uneven texture from dry flakes or scarring
- Brightening – Lifts away dullness for refreshed radiance
- De-fuzzing – Gets rid of fine facial hair that traps dirt and oil
- Product penetration – Allows better absorption of skincare products
- Makeup prep – Creates a smooth canvas for cosmetic application
However, individual results depend on preexisting skin issues and consistency in receiving treatments. Realistic expectations are key.
What Are The Side Effects?
When properly performed by a trained esthetician, Dermaplaning is generally very low risk. Possible side effects include:
- Redness – Temporary ruddiness that subsides within hours
- Irritation – Uncommon but possible if the skin is highly sensitive
- Breakouts – Rare purging of congested skin as it adjusts
- Regrowth – Facial hair can regrow slightly darker and thicker
These mild effects are temporary and very manageable for most. However, some people’s skin may be too reactive for Dermaplaning.
Who Is A Good Candidate?
Dermaplaning works best for those seeking general exfoliation and incremental facial rejuvenation over time with a series of treatments. It suits all skin types when performed correctly but is ideal for:
- Dull, uneven complexions needing brightness
- Oily and acne-prone skin prone to congestion
- Those with fine facial hair or “peach fuzz” are bothered by vellus hair
- People seeking makeup and product application optimization
Maintaining results requires repeat treatments every 4-6 weeks. While effective for certain conditions, Dermaplaning may not treat other underlying skincare issues without being paired with additional approaches.
Who Is Not A Good Candidate?
Some conditions make Dermaplaning inadvisable. Those include:
- Active breakouts or rashes – Can worsen inflammation
- Very sensitive skin – At risk for irritation
- Using isotretinoin acne medication – Causes temporary thinning
- History of keloid scarring – Can potentially worsen
- Active cold sores – Blades risk spreading infection
Conditions like eczema, dermatitis, and rosacea often react poorly to any exfoliation. And unused to shaving, some ethnicities’ coarser or curlier facial hair carries a higher ingrown hair risk from Dermaplaning.
Professional vs. At-Home Use
While dermaplaning is highly technique-dependent, simplified tools have made at-home Dermaplaning kits popular. However, in-office dermaplaning Scottsdale providers perform allows greater precision and lower risks. Estheticians assess skin, use medical-grade tools, and treat any sensitivities immediately. Still, at-home Dermaplaning has a place for maintenance. Get professional guidance to determine what setting suits your situation.
What Results Can You Expect?
How well Dermaplaning improves skin depends on many factors like age, skin condition, and consistency. Gradual refinement is likely over months, not instant perfection after one session. Some can expect:
- Smoother texture – Less bumpiness from dead skin buildup
- Brighter tone – Surface cells sloughed off reveal newer ones
- Temporarily smaller pores – OIL and debris removed from inside make them appear tightened
- More even pigmentation – Lifts some spots as fresh skin generates
- Enhanced product absorption – Actives better penetrate bare exfoliated skin
- Softened fine lines – Surface renewal can be slightly plump.
