Dermaplaning
Dermaplaning utilizes a surgical blade or scalpel to remove the fine, vellus hair along with the outer layer of dry, dead skin. How is this different from shaving you ask? Dermaplaning gives you a much closer shave than a razor can provide. The scalpel cuts the hair at an angle instead of blunting the end like with a razor. This is important because when the hair begins to grow back it isn’t scratchy like razor stubble but rather the hairs are immediately soft.
How Does Dermaplaning Work?
Preparing for Dermaplaning
3-5 days before your dermaplaning treatment it is advised to stop using exfoliating products, acids and bleaching creams/products.
- Discontinue retinols and tretinoin (Retin-A) at least 12 hours in advance (day before).
- If you have had recent sun exposure be sure all redness or sunburns have completely healed before having dermaplaning.
- Do not wax or have a skin treatment like a chemical peel or IPL 2 weeks prior to your treatment.
- Dermaplaning cannot be done if you have active acne, cold sore or open lesions.
Your skin will be thoroughly cleansed and prepped for treatment. A sterile blade will be opened, and your treatment will begin. Once all of the hair and skin has been removed, your skin will be cleansed again, and your aesthetician will select and apply a cocktail of products to nourish your fresh skin.
What to Expect During Dermaplaning
Dermaplaning Recovery Time
There is no recovery time with this treatment. Your skin will not appear at all irritated. You can apply make-up immediately.
Because this treatment offers aggressive exfoliation, we recommend not using at home exfoliators including a Clarisonic or powered cleansing brush for 3-5 days post treatment.
We believe consultations are very important when considering any skin treatment. Our consultations give us the opportunity to get to know you and understand exactly what you are looking to achieve with your skin. At your consultation you will meet with one medical aesthetician who will put together a treatment plan along with product recommendations for you to consider.
Dermaplaning Consultations
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Dermaplaning is actually a very relaxing treatment. As the surgical blade glides over the skin it may tickle the skin. This is a comfortable, no downtime treatment.
It can help with acne in that it exfoliates the surface which will help prevent the pores from clogging. It also allows for better penetration of products to lessen the chance of a break-out. This procedure cannot be done if a patient has active acne.
It can help with wrinkles. By exfoliating the surface of the skin, it gets rid of dry skin that can accentuate fine lines and wrinkles. It also allows for better penetration of products and allows them to be more effective, which will help skin texture and hydration so the skin will be smoother and plumper.
No, but it can be combined with VI Peel with Precision Plus or the Obagi Nu-Derm System. Both of these address melasma and pigmentation. Dermaplaning will allow them to penetrate deeper and provide better results.
Not if it is done correctly. This treatment should only be done by a licensed skin care professional, one who is highly skilled and experienced to avoid complications.
This procedure carries minimal risk. The worst that could happen would be to suffer a small knick or cut during treatment. Even if this were to happen you likely wouldn’t be aware of it as the blade is so sharp.