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Dermaplaning: What to Know About This Smoothing Skin Treatment

Unlock radiant, smoother skin with dermaplaning—learn its benefits, risks, aftercare, and expert advice for safe, effective exfoliation.

By Sneha Tete, Integrated MA, Certified Relationship Coach

Created on Sep 24, 2025

Unlock radiant, smoother skin with dermaplaning—learn its benefits, risks, aftercare, and expert advice for safe, effective exfoliation.

Seeking luminous, smooth skin? Dermaplaning has taken the beauty world by storm as a popular exfoliation treatment that not only leaves your skin brighter, but also removes unwanted peach fuzz. This comprehensive guide unpacks everything you need to know: what dermaplaning is, how it works, its benefits and risks, what to expect from the procedure, aftercare tips, and frequently asked questions.

What Is Dermaplaning?

Dermaplaning is a non-invasive cosmetic procedure that physically exfoliates the skin by gently scraping away dead surface cells and the fine vellus hair (also called peach fuzz) using a sterile, single-use, surgical scalpel. The technique, considered safe when performed by a trained professional, can reveal a more radiant, softer complexion while providing a smooth canvas for makeup application.

Performed using a sterile scalpel at a 45-degree angle
Target areas: primarily the face
Session duration: typically 20-30 minutes
Can be combined with other facial treatments, like chemical peels

How Does Dermaplaning Work?

During a dermaplaning session:

Your skin is first cleansed to remove makeup, oil, and debris.
An esthetician or dermatologist holds the skin taut and gently glides a sterile scalpel across the skin at a precise angle.
The motion removes the thin layer of dead surface skin and fine vellus hair.
Unlike shaving—where hair is cut at the surface—dermaplaning offers deeper exfoliation by removing skin buildup and promoting cell turnover.
No chemicals or abrasive granules are involved, making it suitable for most skin types.

The treatment is painless, with most people describing the sensation as similar to a gentle brushing or light scraping.

Benefits of Dermaplaning

Dermaplaning delivers several cosmetic and practical benefits, particularly for those seeking to enhance skin luminosity and smoothness without significant downtime.

Smoother Skin Texture: Removes rough, dry surface skin, revealing a softer, more even texture.
Instant Radiance: Boosts luminosity and promotes a healthy glow as dull outer cells are shed.
Makeup Application: Creates a flawless canvas—foundation and other makeup glide on more evenly.
Peach Fuzz Removal: Gets rid of fine vellus hair, which can trap oil, dirt, and provide a fuzzy appearance in certain light.
Diminished Appearance of Fine Lines: Shaving away dead cells can make expression lines appear softer.
Reduced Acne Scarring: Over time, dermaplaning can minimize the depth and visibility of post-acne scars by accelerating cellular renewal.
Evened Skin Tone: Helps fade mild hyperpigmentation and gives a more balanced appearance.
Enhanced Skincare Absorption: With the barrier layer removed, serums and moisturizers penetrate more effectively.

Benefit	Description
Smoother Texture	Removes dead skin for a silky feel
Radiant Glow	Promotes brightness and luminosity
Peach Fuzz Removal	Gets rid of fine vellus hair
Scar & Line Reduction	Minimizes mild scarring and fine lines
Improved Skincare	Boosts absorption of topical products

Is Dermaplaning Safe?

Dermaplaning is generally regarded as safe when performed by a licensed professional. Adverse effects are rare and typically mild, but the treatment may not be suited for everyone.

Minimal discomfort and very little—if any—downtime
Temporary redness or a tingling sensation post-treatment
Not recommended for active breakouts, inflammatory skin conditions (like rosacea, eczema, or psoriasis), or those using certain acne medications (such as isotretinoin)

Safety improves significantly when tools are disinfected, and when the provider has experience. Do not attempt at-home dermaplaning with non-medical blades or razors unless specifically recommended by a professional and using proper technique.

Risks and Side Effects

While dermaplaning is a low-risk procedure, certain side effects and complications can arise, especially if performed improperly or on contraindicated skin types.

Redness & Irritation: Short-lived but common, especially for those with sensitive skin.
Soreness or Tingling: Some people experience mild discomfort for up to 48 hours post-procedure.
Breakouts: If bacteria are introduced or post-care is neglected, clogged or inflamed pores may result.
Infection: Rare, but risk increases with unsterile tools or improper technique.
Skin Discoloration: Rare cases of temporary hyper- or hypopigmentation, particularly in those with darker skin tones.
Scarring & Keloids: Uncommon, but can occur in people prone to keloids or if the skin is cut accidentally.
Sun Sensitivity: Exfoliated skin is more vulnerable to the sun’s rays and may burn more easily if unprotected.

If you have active acne, severe rosacea, sunburn, or other active skin conditions on the face, dermaplaning should be avoided until your skin heals. Those with a history of cold sores or herpes simplex infections should inform their provider as well.

Debunking Dermaplaning Myths

Will hair grow back thicker or darker? No. Vellus hair removed during dermaplaning will regrow with the same color and texture. Hair may feel different upon regrowth because it has a blunt edge, but it does not become thicker or darker.

Does dermaplaning trigger breakouts? Not when done correctly on the right skin type. In fact, removing dead skin and offering a clean surface can help prevent future clogged pores. However, performing dermaplaning on acne-prone or already inflamed skin can worsen breakouts or spread bacteria.

Who Is (and Isn’t) a Good Candidate?

Most people benefit from dermaplaning, but certain skin types and histories require caution.

Great candidates: Those with normal, dry, or combination skin seeking brighter, smoother complexion
May not be suitable for:
- Individuals with active acne or frequent inflamed breakouts
- People with untreated or severe rosacea, psoriasis, eczema, or active sunburn
- Anyone recently using retinoids, isotretinoin, or having undergone chemical peels or laser treatments
- Individuals with a history of keloid scarring

If you have any doubt, consult a board-certified dermatologist or licensed skincare professional to assess whether dermaplaning fits your needs and skin’s condition.

What Happens During a Dermaplaning Session?

Most in-office dermaplaning facials follow this general process:

Cleansing the skin to remove oil, makeup, and dirt.
Optional: application of a prep solution to degrease the skin and avoid tugging.
Provider gently holds the skin taut and sweeps the sterile scalpel along the surface in short, feather-light strokes.
Skin flakes, fine hairs, and buildup are carefully wiped away.
Aftercare: hydrating serums, soothing ointments or SPF are applied to protect the new skin.

The session is quick—generally 20–30 minutes. Some clinics offer combination treatments, pairing dermaplaning with chemical peels or LED facials, to boost results and brighten even further.

How to Care for Your Skin After Dermaplaning

Post-treatment skin is especially vulnerable and requires gentle, attentive care to maintain results and avoid complications.

Use a gentle cleanser and avoid exfoliants, retinol, and acidic products for several days.
Apply hydrating serums, calming creams, and non-comedogenic moisturizers.
Do not wear makeup for at least 24 hours to let skin ‘breathe.’
Strictly avoid direct sunlight; wear broad spectrum SPF 30+ daily.
Refrain from hot showers, saunas, or vigorous workouts that can cause excessive sweating immediately after treatment.

Proper aftercare maximizes the glowing result and significantly reduces risk of irritation, dark spots, and breakouts.

How Often Should You Get Dermaplaning?

For most skin types, dermaplaning is recommended every 3-4 weeks (or about once a month), aligning with the skin’s natural cell cycle.

Frequent sessions can help maintain smoothness and address mild textural concerns or hyperpigmentation.
Overdoing can lead to rawness or overstimulated skin.

Always listen to your skin and your provider’s guidance for the optimal schedule.

Home Dermaplaning Kits: Should You DIY?

At-home dermaplaning kits are now widely available, but they aren’t identical to professional devices. Home razors tend to be duller, lack medical-grade sharpness, and may increase risk of nicks, bacterial contamination, or irritation. Dermatologists generally advise against DIY dermaplaning for those with sensitive or problematic skin, emphasizing safety and best results from trained hands.

If you choose to try it at home:
Always use a new, sterilized blade
Prep skin thoroughly and hold blade at correct angle
Limit passes to prevent over-exfoliation
Stop immediately if irritation develops

If you have skin conditions or are uncertain, consult a professional before attempting.

Professional Insights: What Do Experts Say?

Board-certified dermatologists and licensed estheticians agree: dermaplaning, when performed under the right conditions, offers instant—and cumulative—skin-brightening benefits. The key is ensuring the procedure is tailored to your skin’s needs and is performed ethically and hygienically.

Pros recommend seeing a licensed provider, especially for the first treatment.
Dermaplaning is a safe, versatile exfoliation option for many people—especially those seeking immediate results with minimal downtime.
Aftercare (sun protection and gentle skin routines) is essential for safe results.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Does dermaplaning hurt?

A: No, people typically report little to no discomfort—just a light scraping sensation.

Q: Will my hair grow back thicker or darker after dermaplaning?

A: No. Vellus hair will grow with the same texture and color as before. The blunt tip may feel different but won’t change the hair’s nature.

Q: Who should avoid dermaplaning?

A: Those with active acne, inflammatory skin conditions (rosacea, eczema, psoriasis), open wounds, recent sunburn, or those who have used isotretinoin in the previous six months.

Q: How much does professional dermaplaning cost?

A: Prices vary by region and provider but typically range from $75 to $200 per session. Bundled facial packages or add-ons may increase the price.

Q: Can dermaplaning be combined with other facial treatments?

A: Yes, it’s often paired with mild chemical peels or hydrating facials for enhanced glow and smoothness.

Q: Is there any downtime after dermaplaning?

A: Mild redness may last a few hours, but most people resume normal activities immediately—just be diligent with sunscreen and avoid harsh products for a few days.

Summary: Is Dermaplaning Right for You?

Dermaplaning is a safe, effective, and quick exfoliation treatment for brighter, smoother skin—when performed by expert hands. While risks are minimal, proper screening and aftercare are crucial. From enhancing makeup to improving texture and tackling peach fuzz, dermaplaning can deliver visible radiance. Book a consultation with a qualified professional to determine your candidacy and embark on your journey to a glowing complexion.

References

Author

Sneha TeteBeauty & Lifestyle Writer

Sneha is a relationships and lifestyle writer with a strong foundation in applied linguistics and certified training in relationship coaching. She brings over five years of writing experience to thebridalbox, crafting thoughtful, research-driven content that empowers readers to build healthier relationships, boost emotional well-being, and embrace holistic living.

Read full bio of Sneha Tete