With over 3.3 billion views on TikTok, dermaplaning is the latest rage on social media. But if you’re tired of keeping up with all the latest cosmetic treatments, you are at the right place.
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need about dermaplaning, including its benefits, risks, and how to prepare for the procedure.
What is Dermaplaning?
Dermaplaning is a non-invasive, exfoliating treatment that removes the outermost layer of dead skin cells and vellus hair (peach fuzz).
A licensed esthetician or a dermatologist typically performs the procedure. During the process, the professional will use a sterile, sharp No. 10 surgical scalpel to scrape the surface of your skin gently, removing the dead skin cells and fine hairs.
The procedure is painless and typically takes around 30 minutes to complete.
Benefits of Dermaplaning
The epidermis, your outermost layer of the skin, contains no blood cells. Instead, it acquires nutrients by diffusion, meaning the nutrients must travel from within the skin to the top layer.
Exfoliating your skin helps to remove dead skin cells and other debris that can block the diffusion process.
Dermaplaning is an exfoliation technique that improves blood circulation and delivers crucial nutrients to your epidermis. It helps rejuvenate your skin and gives you the glow you always wanted.
Here’s a more specific breakdown of what dermaplaning does for your skin:
- Removes dead skin cells: Dermaplaning removes the top layer of dead skin cells and the vellus hair, thus revealing the smoother, brighter skin underneath.
- Stimulates collagen production: Dermaplaning increases collagen production, a process that produces collagen, a protein that helps to keep the skin firm and youthful.
- Improves the absorption of skincare products: As the barrier of dead skin cells is eliminated, your skin can absorb other skincare products efficiently.
- Reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles: By removing the top layer of dead skin cells and stimulating collagen production, dermaplaning also helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
- Improves the appearance of acne scars: Dermaplaning can help reduce acne scars as it exfoliates the skin and stimulates collagen production.
Risks and Side Effects of Dermaplaning
While dermaplaning is usually safe, there are some risks and side effects you should be aware of. These include:
- Skin irritation: Dermaplaning can cause skin irritation, redness, and swelling, particularly if you have sensitive skin.
- Infection: If the scalpel used during the procedure is not properly sterilized, it can lead to irritation, redness, and infection.
- Scarring: While rare, dermaplaning can cause keloid or hypertrophic (raised) scars.
- Hyperpigmentation: Dermaplaning can cause hyperpigmentation, particularly in people with darker skin tones.
How to Prepare for a Dermaplaning Session?
Before you say goodbye to your old skin, make sure you take the following precautions:
- Book A Session With A Licensed Esthetician: As Freya recommends, always look for an experienced professional to perform the procedure.
Ask your dermatologist or friends for recommendations. A trusted, professional esthetician will also examine your skin and let you know if dermaplaning is the right treatment. - Avoid Certain Skincare Products: In the days leading up to the procedure, refrain from using skincare products that contain retinol or other exfoliating agents, as these can increase the risk of skin irritation.
Discontinue using AHAs, BHAs, retinoids, and microbeads 7 to 14 days before the session. - Avoid Sun Exposure: Sunburned skin is more sensitive and prone to irritation. You’d want to avoid that at least a week before your consult.
- Shaving Before The Session: If you have facial hair, you can use a razor vibrator to shave it before your dermaplaning session.
Methods like waxing, threading, and sugaring help remove your facial hair, but they also rip off a layer of your skin cells. To avoid redness and irritation, schedule your hair removal session at least a week or two before your dermaplaning appointment. - Had A Acne Breakout? Postpone Your Session: Let your esthetician know about your issue and ask them to reschedule you. Avoid dermaplaning if you have open wounds or acne lesions.
What to Expect During a Dermaplaning Session?
During a dermaplaning treatment, you’ll have to lie down in a comfortable chair.
Your face will be cleansed and prepped. Then, the dermatologist or aesthetician will use a sterile surgical blade to gently scrape away the top layer of dead skin cells and vellus hair.
Once your entire face is exfoliated, it’ll be moisturized using serums or moisturizers. The treatment is typically painless and takes about 30 minutes to complete.
All you need to do is lie still!
Aftercare
To maintain your all-new glow, you’ll have to take the following precautions:
- Follow a strict skincare routine: In the days following the procedure, you should avoid using any skincare products that contain retinoids, AHAs, BHAs, microbeads, or enzymes. These products can cause over-exfoliation, thus increasing the risk of skin irritation.
- Avoid certain activities: You should avoid activities that can cause sweating or irritation to the skin, such as exercise or hot showers, for at least 24 hours after the procedure.
Also, stay away from direct sunlight for at least 2-3 days after your session. Use sunscreen if you need to step outside. - Follow-up appointments: Depending on your skin type and the procedure results, you may need to book follow-up appointments. You can schedule your appointments as often as once every two weeks.
How Much Does It Cost?
First, dermaplanning isn’t covered by insurance, so be prepared to open your wallets.
Regarding pricing, the cost may vary as per your location, the type of service provider (aesthetician or dermatologist), or the number of sessions needed. On average, a dermaplanning session will cost you about $105.
Conclusion
If you want softer, brighter, more youthful-looking skin, dermaplaning is worth considering!
Just see an experienced esthetician and care properly for your skin afterward.
Now that you know the ins and outs of this popular procedure, you can decide if dermaplaning might be right for your skincare needs. With the gentle exfoliation it provides, you’ll be on your way to radiant, refreshed skin!
