Dermaplaning has become a super popular beauty treatment, and it’s one I enjoy doing myself. You might have heard people talking about dermaplaning, and might not know what it actually is.
So, I’m going to share what dermaplaning is, how to do it, and what should I put on my face before dermaplaning, should you wish to give it a try.
What Is Dermaplaning?
Dermaplaning is a safe, exfoliating treatment that removes the outer layer of dead skin on your face as well as the fine vellus hair (which most commonly appears as peach fuzz).
This gentle strokes process can make the skin look brighter, softer and more even.
During the procedure, a dermaplaning tool with an extremely sharp blade is used to scrape away dead cells. Dermaplaning treatments are minimally invasive, non-surgical procedures, providing immediate results that can last from 4 to 6 weeks.
Not only does it improve makeup application, but it also helps diminish the appearance of wrinkles and blemishes over time.
With no downtime needed for recovery afterward and relatively no side effects, these treatments are becoming increasingly popular among those seeking a fresh complexion without undergoing any harsh chemical peels or other treatments, to remove dead skin cells and hair.
Benefits Of Dermaplaning
Dermaplaning offers a wide range of benefits for the skin. It exfoliates dead skin cells and removes facial hair, leading to smoother, softer skin that looks resurfaced and brighter.
Dermaplaning also helps enhance the absorption of medication and improve the efficacy of topical products by enabling them to penetrate deeper into the skin.
It also sloughs off oils and dirt from pores while stimulating natural collagen production to reduce fine lines, wrinkles and acne scarring.
Plus, dermaplaning can help make make-up application more even while keeping the brows clear.
This hair removal process is safe and gentle yet highly effective; regular treatments often result in a noticeable change in the texture, tone and clarity of your complexion. So, it’s easy to see why it’s become so popular thanks to TikTok.
Downsides Of Dermaplaning
Dermaplaning offers many advantages when it comes to skin health; however, these benefits may not be as long-lasting as other treatments. Dermaplaning works by removing the top layer of skin, which contains dead skin cells and facial hair.
This results in smoother, brighter skin. However, the effects will only last for a few weeks as the top layer of skin gradually builds back up.
Other treatments like IPL hair removal, or waxing can provide more long-lasting results, although these tend to come with their own drawbacks, such as discomfort during application and possible side effects afterward.
What Do You Need To Start Dermaplaning?
To get started with dermaplaning, you’ll need a few different pieces of equipment: a quality dermaplane blade, an antiseptic cleanser for the skin, and an oil or lotion to soothe the skin after treatment.
Choosing a good blade is key to this process; disposable blades are fine for occasional use, but if you intend to do more frequent treatments, it’s worth investing in medical-grade stainless-steel blades that can be cleaned and disinfected between uses.
Ensure you select an oil-free antiseptic cleanser to thoroughly clean the skin before you begin, and make sure your post-treatment skincare product is non-comedogenic and designed to nourish and soothe the newly exfoliated skin.
What Should I Put On My Face Before Dermaplaning?
When preparing for a dermaplaning treatment, you’ll want to make sure your face is clean and free of any products.
So, you should wash your face with a gentle cleanser and carefully pat it dry. You’ll also need to remove all makeup, dirt, oil, and other debris from the surface of your skin.
After this process is complete, you will be ready for the dermaplaning. It’s important that no extra products are placed on your skin before the procedure so that the blade can glide smoothly without any obstacles or deposits in its path.
For best results, ensure that no product residue remains on your face before dermaplaning so as not to disrupt the scalp-smoothing action of the instrument used during treatment.
What Oil to Use for Dermaplaning at Home?
To get the best results, however, you need the right type of oil to use for this procedure.
Using an oil that is not designed for use with dermaplaning or your skin type could cause unwanted effects such as breakouts or sensitivity reactions.
The most commonly recommended products for home dermaplaning are lighter oils like jojoba, squalane and rosehip seed oil, as they help create a smooth surface while being gentle on the skin.
If you don’t have one of these three oils on hand but still want to try out this exfoliating technique, an unscented natural body oil should do just fine.
What Should I Put On My Face After Dermaplaning?
Dermaplaning is an exfoliation treatment, where you shave your face with a scalpel, and dermaplaning removes the superficial layer of dead skin cells, dirt and oil.
Doing this at home can be beneficial and help reduce long-term skin problems such as acne breakouts, large pores and fine lines.
After dermaplaning your face, it’s important to follow your dermaplaning session with a few steps for optimal skincare results.
To begin with, always use gentle cleanser and lukewarm water to keep the freshly shaven surface clean from dirt and impurities.
If you chose to dermaplane at home, then make sure all tools are sanitized before using them for safety reasons.
Once the cleansing step is completed, let your skin dry naturally before applying a light-weight moisturizer like hyaluronic acid or ceramides, which will strengthen the protective barrier of your skin and seal in moisture at-home.
Step-By-Step How To Dermaplane For The Best Results
At-home dermaplaning is an effective way to exfoliate the skin and remove dead skin cells.
Although it may have a steep learning curve, this method can be done safely, with minimal skin irritation, and easily by following a few simple steps.
First, make sure your hands and tools are clean before beginning any skin treatments. Next, hold the dermaplane facial razor at a 45-degree angle to the layers of skin, and gently pull it across in one swift motion.
It is important to hold your skin taut, so the plane moves smoothly over your face, removing any unwanted facial hair or buildup.
Finally, follow up your dermaplane session with a nourishing cleanser, toner, serum and moisturizer specific for your skin type for the best recovery time results.
Should Skin Be Wet or Dry for Dermaplaning?
When it comes to dermaplaning, there is an ongoing debate regarding whether the skin should be wet or dry.
Proponents of wet dermaplaning claim that damp skin can raise the hair away from the face, making it easier for the scalpel-like blade to swiftly glide across it and provide excellent results.
However, those in favor of performing dermaplaning on a dry complexion believe that this will allow for the most precise removal of facial hair without fear of clogging up the blades with moisturizers.
Choosing whether to perform skin exfoliation when wet or dry depends on individual preferences, as both methods have their merits and drawbacks.
Which Skincare Treatments Should You Apply To The Skin After Dermaplaning?
There are many treatments that can be applied after dermaplaning to maximize the benefits and protect the skin.
For example, incorporating a gentle cleanser, hydrating serum and moisturizer designed specifically for sensitive skin helps to keep the complexion well hydrated while also preventing breakouts.
Antioxidant-rich serums provide free radical scavenging properties and help replenish nutrients lost within the skin barrier during exfoliation.
Applying light layers of mineral-based sunscreen helps protect yourself from environmental damage as well as reduce further irritation from UV exposure.
Lastly, using a face mask or night cream formulated with natural blemish-fighting ingredients can help repair any damage done during the treatment process, as part of your skincare routine.
How Long Does Hair Take To Grow Back After Dermaplaning?
If you’re wondering how long hair takes to grow back after dermaplaning, then the answer is typically around four to six weeks.
This process removes most of the “peach fuzz” hair from the face and generally causes the growth of new and finer vellus hair.
This can leave your complexion looking smooth and clean, with improved product absorption and more even makeup application.
Plus, some studies suggest that follicle disruption caused by this mechanical exfoliation may result in slower hair re-growth or less pronounced regrowth.
Summary
Dermaplaning is a safe and effective form of mechanical exfoliation that can help to remove dead skin cells, improve product absorption, and give you smoother looking skin.
When performing dermaplaning, it’s important to avoid exfoliating ahead of time, using retinols or acidic skincare products beforehand, sun exposure for 24 hours before treatment, and shaving the area you plan on receiving treatment.
Afterward, incorporate gentle cleansers and hydrating serums with antioxidant-rich ingredients, light layers of mineral-based sunscreen, and face masks or night creams to repair any damage done during the procedure.