Dermaplanning

What is dermaplaning?

Dermaplaning is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure for your skin. Your therapist uses a special instrument to shave away the uppermost layers of your skin.

Dermaplaning can help reduce the appearance of acne scars or other skin imperfections by revealing newer, undamaged skin. It can make your skin look younger; though, it doesn’t stop the aging process. Some people also get dermaplaning for hair removal. This is only a temporary fix because your hair will grow back. Most people get the procedure on their face, but you can do it anywhere on your body.

Dermaplaning vs. dermabrasion vs. microdermabrasion:

What’s the difference?

Dermaplaning, dermabrasion and microdermabrasion are all skin resurfacing procedures. Each procedure uses different tools and takes off different amounts of skin. Dermaplaning uses a scalpel (knife) or razor to remove skin. Dermabrasion is a surgical procedure. Microdermabrasion is a nonsurgical procedure that uses an exfoliating blade to sand away your skin to smooth it and remove the appearance of scars.

Who gets dermaplaning?

You may consider dermaplaning if you have skin concerns such as:

• Acne scars.

• Actinic keratosis (scaly skin patches that can lead to skin cancer)

• Dull or dry skin

• Peach fuzz (light, soft hair on your face)

• Skin damaged by sun exposure

• Fine lines (wrinkles)

Who shouldn’t have dermaplaning?

Some people with preexisting skin concerns shouldn’t have dermaplaning. Before getting this procedure, talk to your therapist if you have:

• An active case of acne

• Cold sore outbreaks

• Eczema

• Moles, freckles, skin tags or other skin growths.

• Psoriasis

• Skin burns, such as those from radiation therapy.

• Skin rashes (contact dermatitis)

What happens before dermaplaning?

Before the procedure, your therapist will:

• Discuss your goals for the procedure.

• Examine your skin to make sure it’s healthy enough for the procedure.

• Explain what you can expect before, during and after dermaplaning.

• Review your health history.

Sometimes, we will take photos of the area that needs treatment. The photos help you compare the “before” and “after” results of dermaplaning. We will also let you know if there are any special instructions you need to follow before the procedure, such as not smoking for a few weeks. Not smoking may help you heal faster after the procedure.

What happens during dermaplaning?

Dermaplaning doesn’t require general anesthesia, but your therapist might put a numbing cream or spray on your face about half an hour before the procedure.

You might feel a scratching or stinging sensation on your skin, but dermaplaning usually isn’t painful.

Your therapist uses a special instrument called a dermatome to remove hair and skin cells. The tool looks a bit like an electric razor. The dermatome has a small blade that moves back and forth across your skin. It doesn’t make cuts in your skin, but gently shaves off the top layers of skin.

We may apply a soothing gel or ointment to your skin to reduce redness, swelling or irritation.

The treatment can last anywhere from a few minutes to an hour and a half. The length of the procedure depends on the size of the area that needs treatment.

Will I need multiple dermaplaning procedures?

Some people get multiple dermaplaning procedures to achieve their desired results. However, it’s important for your skin to heal completely between treatments. Talk to your therapist to make sure it’s safe to have additional dermaplaning procedures.

What if I have very deep acne scars?

Dermaplaning may not reduce the appearance of deep or raised acne scars. Some people need more intense treatments.