Dermaplaning

What Is Dermaplaning?

Dermaplaning is a noninvasive exfoliating treatment that removes dead and damaged cells, excess oils and dirt from the upper layer of skin. The treatment utilizes a sterile surgical blade that’s moved gently across the skin in an upward motion. With each pass, worn skin cells are removed, which prompts the regeneration of healthier, new cells.

The treatment is also often used for the removal of short hairs, sometimes referred to as ‘peach fuzz,’ which are known to keep unwanted bacteria and oils on the face that further skin irritation and blemishes. This treatment is excellent for anyone seeking a youthful glow. With no downtime and few side effects, dermaplaning is a quick and safe procedure that can restore your skin’s health.

Benefits of Dermaplaning

Dermaplaning is a simple treatment that delivers multiple cosmetic benefits in a single session. By removing dead skin buildup and fine facial hair, the skin often appears brighter, smoother and more refreshed immediately afterward.

Benefits of dermaplaning may include:

• Smoother, softer skin texture
• A brighter and more radiant complexion
• Removal of peach fuzz and surface debris
• Reduction in dry, rough skin buildup
• Temporary improvement in mild superficial acne scarring
• A noninvasive treatment with little to no downtime
• Safe treatment for most skin tones and skin types

Another advantage of dermaplaning is how smoothly makeup applies after treatment. Foundation and powders often sit more evenly on freshly exfoliated skin, helping create a softer and more polished appearance. Many patients also notice that skincare products absorb more effectively following treatment because there are fewer barriers sitting on the skin’s surface.

During an initial consultation, we’ll review your concerns and have an open discussion with you to determine whether dermaplaning is a suitable treatment. In some cases, additional treatments may be recommended to further enhance your results. Dermaplaning is a cosmetic procedure that works well alongside procedures like microneedling and chemical peels.

How to Prepare for Dermaplaning

Preparing properly for dermaplaning can help promote the best possible results and reduce unnecessary skin irritation. Patients are generally advised to avoid harsh exfoliants, retinoids and strong acne medications for several days before treatment unless otherwise instructed. Excessive sun exposure and tanning should also be avoided prior to the appointment, as sunburned or irritated skin may not be suitable for treatment.

On the day of your appointment, it’s typically recommended to arrive with clean skin free of heavy makeup or skincare products. Patients should also avoid waxing, threading or other aggressive exfoliating treatments within a week of dermaplaning. During your consultation, specific preparation instructions may be provided based on your skin type and cosmetic concerns.

The Dermaplaning Procedure

During the dermaplaning procedure, your skin will be cleansed, and the sterile blade will then be moved slowly along your skin at a 45-degree angle. As it passes, debris, dead cells, and peach fuzz will all be removed from your skin’s outer layers. A healthier, smoother skin will gradually be revealed during the process. Your aesthetician may adjust your head’s position to ensure that the blade moves evenly across the treated area. A mild tingling sensation may be experienced, but it’s generally tolerable. The entire process generally takes 30 minutes to complete. Afterward, a soothing ointment will be applied to calm your skin and relieve any discomfort.

Dermaplaning Recovery and Results

Because dermaplaning treatment is noninvasive and requires little to no downtime, it’s a convenient option for patients looking to improve their complexion without a lengthy recovery period. After treatment, there may be some mild peeling and redness that’ll last for several hours. However, this is normal. It’s the skin undergoing the regenerative process to produce new cells, creating a smoother and softer appearance. 

The results will be noticeable immediately after treatment, as evidenced by a glowing complexion. Because each person is unique, how long results last depends, but typically it’ll last for four to six weeks.

Dermaplaning Aftercare and Maintaining Results

Following dermaplaning, proper skincare is important for maintaining your results and protecting the newly exfoliated skin. Because the outer layer of dead skin cells has been removed, the skin may be more sensitive to sunlight and environmental exposure. Daily sunscreen use is strongly encouraged to help prevent sun damage and maintain a healthy complexion.

Patients should also avoid harsh scrubs, exfoliating acids and irritating skincare products for several days after treatment. Gentle cleansers, moisturizers and hydrating products are recommended while the skin recovers. To maintain smoother skin and continued radiance, many patients schedule dermaplaning treatments every four to six weeks as part of their regular skincare routine.

Combination Treatments

Dermaplaning is frequently combined with other cosmetic treatments to further enhance skin rejuvenation results. By removing dead skin cells and surface debris beforehand, dermaplaning can help other treatments penetrate the skin more effectively. This makes it a popular addition to skin rejuvenation treatments, such as chemical peels and RF microneedling.

Patients preparing for special events often combine dermaplaning with hydrating or brightening treatments to achieve a smoother, more radiant appearance. Because every patient’s skin is different, combination treatments are customized based on individual concerns, skin sensitivity and aesthetic goals. Your provider can recommend the most effective treatment plan during your consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dermaplaning

Does demaplaning make facial hair grow back thicker?

No. Dermaplaning does not change the structure, color or growth rate of facial hair. The fine facial hair removed during treatment, often referred to as peach fuzz, will grow back with the same texture and appearance it had before the procedure. Because the hair is cut bluntly at the surface, some patients may temporarily notice it feels slightly different as it grows back, but it does not become darker or coarser. Dermaplaning only removes hair at the surface level and does not affect the hair follicle itself.

Is dermaplaning painful?

Dermaplaning is generally considered a comfortable and well-tolerated treatment. Most patients describe the sensation as a light brushing or gentle scraping feeling against the skin rather than pain. The procedure is noninvasive and typically does not require anesthesia or numbing agents. Some patients with sensitive skin may experience mild temporary redness afterward, but significant discomfort is uncommon.

How often should dermaplaning be performed?

Many patients choose to schedule dermaplaning treatments every four to six weeks to maintain smoother skin and ongoing exfoliation benefits. This timeframe allows the skin to complete its natural cell turnover cycle before another treatment is performed. The ideal treatment schedule can vary depending on skin type, skincare routine and cosmetic concerns. During your consultation, your provider can recommend a personalized maintenance plan based on your goals.

Can dermaplaning help acne scars?

Dermaplaning may help improve the appearance of mild, superficial acne scarring by smoothing the skin’s surface and removing surface buildup. The treatment can also create a brighter and more even complexion, which may make certain imperfections appear less noticeable. However, deeper or more severe acne scars often require additional procedures such as CoolPeel laser or MOXI laser resurfacing for more significant improvement. Your provider can evaluate your skin and determine whether dermaplaning alone or a combination approach would be most beneficial.

Can I wear makeup after dermaplaning?

Many patients are able to resume wearing makeup shortly after treatment. Because the skin is smoother after dermaplaning, makeup often applies more evenly and creates a more polished appearance. However, some patients prefer to wait until the following day to allow any temporary sensitivity or redness to fully subside. Your provider may recommend specific post-treatment skincare and makeup instructions based on your skin’s condition.

Is dermaplaning safe for sensitive skin?

Dermaplaning is often considered a suitable option for many patients with sensitive skin because it does not involve harsh chemicals or aggressive exfoliating particles. The treatment uses a controlled manual technique to gently remove dead skin cells and peach fuzz from the skin’s surface. However, patients with active acne breakouts, certain inflammatory skin conditions or highly irritated skin may not be ideal candidates for treatment at this time. A professional consultation is important to determine whether dermaplaning is appropriate for your specific skin concerns and sensitivity level.