Dermaplaning has become one of the most popular ways to brighten your complexion, remove peach fuzz, and reveal softer skin. While searches for dermaplaning tools skyrocketed during the pandemic, it’s generally best to get the procedure done by a professional. The minimally invasive treatment removes the outermost layer of dead skin cells, improving the texture and look of your skin and revealing a glowing complexion. Want to know more? Here are 23 things to know about dermaplaning.
What is Dermaplaning?
Dermaplaning is a deep exfoliation treatment. It’s a minimally invasive procedure that shaves away the top layers of your skin, and can help reduce the appearance of acne scars and other imperfections. Some people also get dermaplaning for hair removal, as it uses a painless blade to gently scrape away facial hair and rids the skin of any build up of dead skin cells.
Dermaplaning reveals new, smoother, undamaged skin that makes your complexion look younger and refreshed. During the procedure, you may feel a scratching or stinging sensation on your skin, but dermaplaning usually isn’t painful. A dermatome (a sharp, sterile blade) is used to shave off the top layers of skin, and the treatment can last anywhere from a few minutes to an hour and a half, depending on the size of the area to be treated.
Dermaplaning is different from shaving in that shaving physically cuts the hair at the skin’s surface, whereas dermaplaning gently scrapes it away. It’s often used as a preparation step before other skincare treatments, such as chemical peels or laser treatments, as it helps these treatments penetrate more effectively.
While there are at-home dermaplaning tools available, it’s typically recommended to have the procedure done by a trained professional to minimize risks. Performing dermaplaning at home without proper training and sterilization techniques may lead to skin irritation, cuts, infections, and even scarring.
Who Should Consider Dermaplaning?
You may consider dermaplaning if you have acne scars, dull or dry skin, or peach fuzz (light, soft hair on your face). You may also consider it if your skin has been damaged by sun exposure, you have fine lines or wrinkles, or if you have actinic keratosis (scaly skin patches that can lead to skin cancer).
You should avoid dermaplaning if you have active acne, an infection, rash, or cold cores in the areas of concern. This can lead to a wider spread infection that can cause more inflammation, pigmentation, and scarring. If you have eczema, rosacea, psoriasis, moles, freckles or skin tags, talk to your healthcare provider before getting the procedure done.
9 Benefits of Dermaplaning
- Temporary removal of hair
- Exfoliation to reveal smoother, brighter skin
- Eliminates build up of dead skin cells
- Improves texture of skin
- Removes peach fuzz
- Enhances skincare absorption (topical treatments, serums, moisturizers)
- Smooth, easy makeup application
- Reduced acne scarring
- Minimized fine lines
4 Risks of Dermaplaning
- Mild redness after the procedure
- Discoloured skin (lighter or darker than surrounding skin)
- Temporarily more sensitive to the sun
- Skin irritation, cuts, infections, and scarring are possible, but rare if done by a trained professional
How to Care For Your Skin Before & After Dermaplaning
How to prepare for your skin BEFORE dermaplaning:
- Stop using AHA/ BHA/ Retin A/Vitamin A/Hydroquinone 24 hours prior to your service. These products may cause the skin to become sensitized.
- Avoid waxing and shaving for at least 2 weeks prior to your appointment.
- Drink plenty of water before your dermaplaning session to keep your skin hydrated and help prevent swelling or discomfort.
- Avoid intense sun exposure one to two weeks before your session.
How to care for your skin AFTER dermaplaning:
1. Use Lots of Moisturizer
After dermaplaning, be sure to use a hydrating moisturizer like the e.l.f. Holy Hydration Face Cream to soothe the skin and maintain hydration. Dermaplaning can leave your skin feeling a bit dry and sensitive, and a good moisturizer will help nourish and protect the skin.
2. Avoid Actives
Avoid potent actives, such as retinoids, glycolic acids, and other exfoliants for one week following your dermaplaning session to avoid irritation. This will give your skin time to heal and recover from the treatment.
3. Prioritize Sunscreen
Following your dermaplaning session, you should avoid direct sun exposure and extreme heat for three days. Always use broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF30 to protect the newly exposed skin from sun damage, even if you’re just spending time indoors.
4. Keep It Simple
For two weeks following your treatment, stick to a simple skincare routine to avoid irritation. Use a gentle face cleanser, hydrating serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen everyday. Steer clear of any other treatments or products that could irritate the skin.
5. Drink Lots of Water and Get Lots of Rest
Make sure to drink plenty of water after the treatment to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out. Since dermaplaning can make your skin more prone to dryness, staying hydrated is especially important. You should also take some time to relax and de-stress. Taking a warm bath or relaxing with a good book can work wonders for your skin and help you recover from dermaplaning.
6. Other Tips
Avoid wearing makeup for 24 hours after dermaplaning so your skin can heal from the treatment. Avoid chlorine and swimming pools for at least 24 hours post dermaplaning as chlorinated water can dry out and irritate the skin. You’ll also want to avoid touching your face, as this can introduce bacteria to the skin and cause irritation.
If you’ve been considering dermaplaning, be sure to follow these care tips before and after your procedure!
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