What is Dermaplaning?

Dermaplaning is a quick, painless and relatively safe treatment that can do wonders for your skin. It is a non-invasive, non-chemical, deep manual exfoliation that exfoliates the surface layers of epidermis while ridding the skin of fine vellus hair (peach fuzz). Dermaplaning offers a rare combination of overall skin rejuvenation and facial-hair removal benefits.

Dermaplaning is performed by using a disposable sterile surgical blade called a dermatome. When using the dermatome, the outermost layers of dead skin cells are removed with light feathering strokes to smooth away the surface layer of the skin. This procedure is highly customizable and can be performed on a small area or on the entire face excluding nose. Dermaplaning can occur as a stand-alone treatment, or it can be done before numerous other treatment modalities such as chemical peels, facials, or microneedling, to enhance results.

What to expect after Dermaplaning? 

Although it is considered one of the more aggressive skin exfoliation options, it is a treatment that can be repeated every 3-4 weeks. Results are usually seen instantaneously with minimal to no downtime. After receiving this complete rejuvenation procedure, your skin appears smoother, healthier, more radiant, and more youthful, plus it will feel like silk, absorb products better, and makeup will apply more elegantly.

What does the treatment feel like?

“Dermaplaning” is a painless procedure and can be compared to the sensation of shaving. While using the dermatome with one hand, your provider will use their other hand to pull the treatment-area taut. In the right hands, Dermaplaing is a safe and is highly effective way to exfoliate the skin.

Who is Dermaplaning best for?

Dermaplaning is suitable for all skin types except acne-prone, broken-out skin.

It is helpful for those with dry or rough skin texture and helps to minimize superficial acne scarring or uneven skin tone.
It is beneficial for mature skin, which tends to have a buildup of dead cells as cellular turnover slows down with age.
It is the first choice for patients who have excess vellus hair on the skin. (This hair often causes a buildup of dirt and oils in the follicles, so removing the hair gives the patient healthier smoother looking skin.)

Because Dermaplaning is an alternative to chemical peels or Microdermabrasion it is a good choice for skins who are extremely sensitive, experience redness and/or rosacea. Although this is considered a more aggressive treatment, Dermaplaning does not break the capillaries on the face.
Unfortunately, it is not recommended for acne prone skin because of the removal of vellus hair. The oil from the sebaceous glands needs to travel up and connect with the vellus hair in order for it to be excreted. If the hair is removed and the oil builds up, the glands are obstructed and the individual may experience more breakouts and even more severe acne. An alternative treatment with similar skin therapy without the removal of vellus hair would be Microdermabrasion.

Can pregnant women receive this treatment?

This is a great treatment to offer to patients who are pregnant or nursing that want to take care of themselves / skin, but are not allowed to use more aggressive treatment options because of the risk that the chemicals will be absorbed into the bloodstream and may be transferred to the fetus or the child. (There are NO chemicals involved with this, making it completely safe for a baby.)

How will it affect the vellus hair when it grows back?

This is a common question! Many patients are often concerned that the hair will grow back heavier and darker after Dermaplaning, however contrary to popular belief the hair does not grow back darker or coarser. As long as the hair is superficial vellus hair, it will return at the same rate and texture as before treatment.

What is the recommended treatment?

This procedure is performed as often as every 3-weeks.

What are the benefits of Dermaplaning?

Usually, after your first treatment you will see AND FEEL a difference instantly! This procedure is performed just like shaving and is usually completed within 15–30 minutes; therefore it can easily be done during lunch break. This treatment does not cause any trauma to skin and in return you will encounter little to no downtime. For certain skin types, a chemical peel done immediately after Dermaplaning is an excellent way to make sure that the peel penetrates deeper and more evenly. Some benefits include increased absorption of topical products, immediate softening of fine lines and wrinkles, and creates a healthier and more radiant skin.

Are their any Dermaplaning side effects?
Side effects are minimal and temporary. Side effects may include redness, dryness and flaking of the skin. We recommend avoiding exercise and vigorous exfoliation for 24 hours after your Dermaplaning treatment to avoid irritation of the skin.

What are the benefits in Dermaplaning immediately before a Chemical Peel?

Dermaplaning prior to performing a peel (chemical exfoliation) it is a great way to prep the skin for a deeper and more even peel. When Dermaplaning is done in conjunction with a chemical peel, it leaves the skin instantly looking smooth, radiant and glowing. This is a perfect treatment for an event where you want to look good immediately and do not have days to wait to get results from other facial treatments.