Dermaplaning is a skin rejuvenation treatment that’s done in-office by a dermatologist or aesthetician, who uses a surgical scalpel to gently scrape away dead cells and vellus hair (aka peach fuzz) from your skin’s surface. Similar to shaving, it’s typically performed on the face—but because the doctor uses a scalpel rather than a razor, the sloughing goes deeper than you’re able to achieve at home.
The benefits are similar to what you’d get with other in-office exfoliating treatments, such as microdermabrasion or a mild chemical peel:
Unlike other exfoliating treatment options that may irritate sensitive skin or cause hyperpigmentation, dermaplaning is a viable exfoliating option for most skin types.
Finally, because the treatment removes the top layer of dead cells, it may also improve the absorption of skin-care products for up to 21 days—the approximate length of time it takes for a new layer of dead skin cells to accumulate.
In the wrong hands, dermaplaning can result in nicks or cuts. Doctors on RealSelf urge you to undergo a dermaplaning treatment only at the hands of an experienced dermatologist, plastic surgeon, physician, or certified aesthetician in a doctor’s office.
Although home dermaplaning products do exist, most doctors caution against attempting dermaplaning at home (with a traditional razor or a dermaplaning tool) because of the potential to scrape too deeply, injure your skin, and cause scarring.
If you have a history of cold sores, share that information with your doctor or aesthetician, since any exfoliating treatment can trigger a herpes flare-up. To be safe, a doctor may prescribe an antiviral medication, such as Valtrex.
First, skin is typically prepped with an alcohol swab to remove excess oil. (The procedure should be painless, so no local anesthesia or topical numbing cream is applied.) Your doctor or aesthetician uses one hand to gently stretch each area of skin so it’s taut and smooth, then carefully slides the scalpel over the skin’s surface, scraping away dead skin cells and facial hair with short, quick strokes. Most treatments take between 20 and 30 minutes.
Don’t worry that removing your vellus hair (peach fuzz) could make it grow back thicker, say doctors on RealSelf. It’s a common and false misconception that shaving or dermaplaning causes hair to grow back darker or coarser. Hair will grow back at a normal rate and will not change in any way. RealSelf members back this up in their reviews.
Dermaplaning effectively removes the top layer of dead skin cells, which evens skin tone and texture while reducing the appearance of acne scars and fine lines. However, some doctors say you’ll need a series of treatments to see significant results.
As with any exfoliation treatment, the best results of dermaplaning occur after a series of treatments. Typically, a series includes six treatments, but many patients feel they begin to see positive changes in their skin within two to three treatments.
The results are not permanent, and how often you choose to receive treatment will depend on your budget, schedule, and skin profile.
**Results may vary. We are reputable for complete customer satisfaction for completed treatments. Before and after images reflect real results from real patients, although individual results may vary. No treatment is promised to provide permanent results. A guarantee is neither provided nor implied. Statements estimating treatment duration and the number of treatments required are based on the typical experience or our patients, however individual experiences may vary.
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