Some people swear by dermaplaning’s silky-smooth results, but is this hot skin care trend effective and safe? If you have it done by a spa professional, it certainly is. Read on to learn about some misconceptions about dermaplaning, less-than-ideal results, and our best advice for avoiding dermaplaning regret.
What is Dermaplaning? | Dermaplaning without regrets | Why dermaplaning should only be performed by estheticians | Who Can Benefit from Dermaplaning? | 6 common regrets after dermaplaning
What is Dermaplaning?
Also known as “microplaning” or “blading,” dermablading is a specialized skin care treatment that involves skimming your face with an exfoliating blade made specifically for your skin. This process removes dead skin, product buildup, and fine hairs on your cheeks and chin (also known as peach fuzz). Afterwards, you’ll notice and feel your facial skin looking younger and smoother.
Eminence Organic Regional sales and training representative Tamara Hughes She says a common mistake is confusing dermaplaning with shaving. “A dermaplaning treatment and at-home shaving are very different and use different tools to achieve different goals,” she says. “They both use a blade that moves over the skin, but that’s where the similarities end.”
“There are many blades available for at-home use, but dermaplaning should always be performed by a certified dermaplaning technician,” says Hughes.
Want to learn more about dermaplaning? Check out our guide to dermaplaning facials here.
How to Avoid Dermaplaning Regret
You may be wondering if dermaplaning is “bad” for your skin. HealthlineDermaplaning has the following benefits:
- Reduces the appearance of acne scars, pores and fine lines.
- Your skin will be smooth and radiant after the treatment
- Because it’s a smoother canvas, makeup is easier to apply and remove. Some people believe that skin care products also apply more easily and the products are absorbed better by the skin.
Unlike laser hair removal and other cosmetic treatments, there’s little to no recovery time, other than wearing sunscreen and being mindful of sun exposure. Because dermaplaning only affects the top few layers of skin, it’s considered a minimally invasive procedure with fewer risks than other treatments. Freshly dermaplaned skin is perfect for enhancing the effects of chemical peels, facials, and microneedling, says Hughes.
Is dermaplaning safe to do at home? No! This treatment should always be done at a spa – do not attempt to do it at home. Results last for approximately 3 weeks, however due to the fragile state of your skin, you may be at risk of sunburn for a few days after treatment. Due to the fragile state of your skin, you should avoid using retinol and other irritating skin care products for a few weeks after treatment. People with any skin conditions (see below) should not attempt a dermaplaning treatment.
Why dermaplaning should only be performed by estheticians
According to Hughes, dermaplaning is typically performed by a certified technician because it is a professional treatment that removes two to three weeks’ worth of dead skin cells and hair. She explains the difference between professional dermaplaning and using a razor at home: “The treatment uses a surgical blade at a 45-degree angle, primarily for exfoliation. In comparison, a facial razor is a tool with a safety guard that is placed against the skin at a 35-degree angle and is designed for home use. Its primary purpose is hair removal, removing only the surface hair.”
Who Can Benefit from Dermaplaning?
Dermaplaning is effective on all skin types, but is especially beneficial for those with:
- Acne scars and holes
- Dullness
- Dry skin
- Sunburned skin
- Fine lines
- Concerns about vellus hair, which can naturally thicken with age or conditions such as polycystic ovaries.
Who should avoid dermaplaning?
according to WebMD and HealthlineAvoid dermaplaning if you have recently or regularly experience any of the following symptoms:
- Severe sunburn
- Active Breakouts
- Sensitive Skin
- Use of Accutane or tretinoin within the past 6 months
- Have cancer and are undergoing cancer treatment
- keloid
- eczema
- Rosacea-like dermatitis
- Spider Veins
- Cystic acne
- Hirsutism
- Viruses such as chickenpox and shingles
Common regrets after dermaplaning
Dermaplaning Regret #1: Trying it at Home “On a Budget”
At-home dermaplaning blades aren’t hard to find, but just because you can try a dermaplaning facial treatment on yourself doesn’t mean you should.
“Dermaplaning should always be performed by a certified dermaplaning technician to avoid injury or side effects,” says Hughes. “Make sure to look for a certified technician who is trained in the proper technique. Be sure to read reviews and discuss the treatment before you begin.”
Without proper training, knowledge of sterilization, or not knowing how to angle the tools, you risk injuring the delicate skin on your face, which can lead to infection, irritation, scratches, and even scarring.
YouTuber Natalie Outlet Bad experience After dermaplaning with an old blade, she described the results as feeling like an “ingrown hair.” “I was left with a bump for months,” she says in the video.
Dermaplaning regret #2: It makes my breakouts worse
by Cleveland ClinicThe sliding motion of dermaplaning can spread bacteria and make acne worse. Over time, it can also cause more acne and worsen existing acne. If you suffer from acne, are currently experiencing acne, or are taking acne medications such as Accutane or Isotretinoin, we always recommend avoiding dermaplaning. However, if you think your skin is clear enough to try dermaplaning, be sure to work with a professional to keep the dermaplaning tool away from any broken skin or scars.
Dermaplaning Regret #3: Dermaplaning Irritates the Skin
Although your skin may feel smoother at first, after a few hours your skin may feel tight and raw if the dermaplaning is too aggressive for your sensitive skin. We always recommend consulting a dermaplaning specialist or dermatologist before your treatment to see if it is right for you.
However, if your skin is only sensitive occasionally, consider an oil-planing treatment where you apply a facial oil to the skin before dermaplaning to reduce friction. Also, always remember that the treatment should be done slowly, carefully and very lightly on the skin to avoid bruising or irritation.
Dermaplaning regret #4: Old cold sores come back
Unfortunately, dermaplaning in the wrong area can reactivate old herpes sites and reactivate the herpes simplex virus on your skin. To avoid this, see your doctor to get oral anti-herpes medication or antibiotics to prevent recurrence, and be sure to tell your dermatologist about any herpes history before treatment.
Dermaplaning regret #5: Not taking care of your skin after the treatment
Because dermaplaning removes layers of old skin to expose new skin, a recovery routine is required for several weeks after treatment. selfIt takes about 14 days for epidermal skin cells to be replaced, so after your dermaplaning facial treatment, follow a skin barrier replenishment routine to maintain smooth, healthy skin in the long term.
This means focusing on the following:
- Moisturizing serum and hyaluronic acid to hydrate the skin
- Keep moisturized for a few weeks after treatment
- Sunscreen, as it makes skin more susceptible to damage from UV rays
- Avoid skin care products that sting your skin
- Avoid retinol
- Gentle cleaning
With the right care and expert help, dermaplaning can rejuvenate skin and make it look flawlessly smooth. If you’re interested in this innovative treatment, visit our spa locator and call your local Eminence Organics spa partner to see if they offer dermaplaning services.
