Dermaplaning FAQ's

Dermaplaning is a cosmetic treatment in which dead skin cells and peach fuzz are scraped off with a scalpel by a plastic surgeon, dermatologist, or cosmetologist. While dermaplaning removes fine facial hairs, the procedure differs from shaving in terms of the tools used, the amount of skin removed, and the person performing the procedure.

Dermaplaning and shaving can both be used to remove unwanted hair growth. If removing hair is your singular concern, shaving is an option. But shaving only cuts hair at the skin level and should not remove any layers of skin. If you’re hoping to improve the overall appearance of your skin, dermaplaning will also exfoliate your skin, removing dead skin cells.

The benefits of dermaplaning depend on your skin type, tone, medical history, and the quality of the professional performing your dermaplaning. 

The benefits of dermaplaning are cosmetic and may include:

• Brighter, more youthful skin tone 
• Removing small hairs or peach fuzz
• Reducing fine lines and wrinkles
• Smoother skin
• Ease hyperpigmentation
• Evening skin tone
• Removing bacteria and clearing pores to limit breakouts
• Reducing deep scars from acne or pox

Most people have little to no irritation or reaction. Short-term side effects may include:

• Red and swollen skin from the scraping
• Soreness
• A burning or tingling sensation for about 48 hours after the procedure

Everyone’s results will vary depending on your skin type. If done with incorrect techniques or tools, you may experience side effects like a breakout. You may want to avoid dermaplaning if you currently have acne or are in the middle of a breakout. Bacteria from a current breakout can spread to other areas of the skin, making it worse. It’s best to avoid dermaplaning until your skin clears up.

When done correctly, dermaplaning may help reduce future breakouts by removing the buildup of dead skin cells.

Taking care of your skin care is essential after dermaplaning. Be gentle with your skin for the next few days. Your practitioner will likely advise the following:

• Avoid harsh cleaners, toners or exfoliants.
• Apply soothing moisturizer and sunscreen daily.
• Avoid direct sunlight.
• Avoid heavy makeup.

There’s no downtime needed to let your skin heal. Experts recommend using a broad-spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 30 and a moisturizer afterward. That’s because your skin may be more sensitive

Dermaplaning is good for people who don’t have any severe skin issues, such as eczema, psoriasis, rosacea, or acne. It can help even skin tone, brighten a dull complexion, and remove unwanted facial hairs.

Risks to dermaplaning include breakouts, cuts, and scarring. The cost of dermaplaning often ranges from $100-300, and it may take a few months to see complete results. Results vary depending on the quality of service and the skin type of the person receiving the treatment.

Hair growth after dermaplaning does not typically grow back thicker or darker, but it may grow back at a different angle. This may change how it looks and feels. 

Dermaplaning doesn’t permanently remove your hair, so ongoing treatments may be necessary to maintain results. The time it takes for the hair to grow back varies from person to person. 

Because a scalpel facial does not permanently remove your unwanted facial hair, you’ll need to schedule return treatments to maintain your look. After your first treatment, you’ll likely be excited about your results and eager to schedule your next appointment. We recommend that most patients wait at least four weeks before their next appointment. Four weeks will give your skin enough time to bounce back and replenish itself after being exfoliated. And because it will take some time for the facial hair to regrow, you won’t need another treatment right away anyway.

This treatment is not recommended for clients who are in the midst of an active acne outbreak or who have open wounds or lesions on their face. Clients who are allergic to nickel or who have used the acne medication Accutane in the past six months also are not ideal candidates. Clients who have received Botox or dermal fillers should wait at least seven days before undergoing a scalpel facial.