Posted on April 3rd, 2024.
Welcome to our blog post on dermaplaning, a popular skincare treatment gaining momentum among beauty enthusiasts. If you're new to dermaplaning or considering trying it out, you're in the right place.
In this article, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about this rejuvenating procedure, from the process itself to its benefits and aftercare tips.
What to expect from the Dermaplaning Process
When undergoing the dermaplaning process, it's natural to want to know what to expect. Here's a rundown of what typically happens during a dermaplaning session:
- Preparation: Before the procedure begins, your esthetician will cleanse your skin thoroughly to remove any makeup, dirt, or oil. This step ensures that your skin is clean and ready for the treatment.
- Consultation: Your esthetician may conduct a brief consultation to discuss your skincare concerns and goals. This is also an opportunity to address any questions or concerns you may have about the dermaplaning process.
- Application of Numbing Cream (Optional): Some individuals may opt to have a numbing cream applied to their skin before dermaplaning to minimize any discomfort during the procedure. If you choose to use numbing cream, your esthetician will apply it and allow it to take effect before proceeding.
- Dermaplaning: Once your skin is prepped and ready, the dermaplaning process begins. Your esthetician will use a sterile surgical scalpel to gently exfoliate the surface of your skin. They'll use light, feather-like strokes to remove dead skin cells and fine vellus hair (peach fuzz) from your face.
- Post-Treatment Care: After the dermaplaning is complete, your esthetician will apply soothing skincare products to your skin to calm any redness or irritation. They may also recommend specific products to use at home to maintain your results and promote skin healing.
- Sunscreen Application: It's essential to apply sunscreen after dermaplaning to protect your skin from the sun's harmful UV rays. Your esthetician may apply sunscreen as part of your post-treatment care or provide recommendations for sunscreen products to use at home.
- Results: You'll notice immediate results after dermaplaning, with smoother, brighter skin and a more even complexion. Your skincare products will also penetrate more effectively, maximizing their benefits.
The Benefits of Dermaplaning
Let's delve deeper into the benefits of dermaplaning by providing valuable insights and additional information:
- Exfoliation Beyond the Surface: While many skincare treatments focus on surface-level exfoliation, dermaplaning offers a deeper level of exfoliation. By manually removing dead skin cells and peach fuzz, dermaplaning uncovers fresher skin layers, resulting in a more thorough exfoliation compared to traditional methods like scrubs or chemical peels.
- Enhanced Product Absorption: One of the lesser-known benefits of dermaplaning is its ability to enhance the absorption of skincare products. By eliminating the barrier of dead skin cells and fine hair, dermaplaning allows serums, moisturizers, and other treatments to penetrate more deeply into the skin. This means that your skincare routine becomes more effective, leading to better results over time.
- Stimulated Collagen Production: Dermaplaning not only exfoliates the skin but also stimulates collagen production. Collagen is a protein that helps maintain skin elasticity and firmness. By triggering collagen production, dermaplaning can help improve skin texture and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, leading to a more youthful complexion.
- Customizable Treatment: Another advantage of dermaplaning is its versatility and customizability. The depth and intensity of the treatment can be adjusted based on individual skin concerns and sensitivity levels. Whether you're dealing with mild congestion, uneven texture, or signs of aging, dermaplaning can be tailored to address your specific needs, ensuring optimal results for every client.
- Gentle for Sensitive Skin: Many exfoliation methods can be too harsh for sensitive skin, leading to redness, irritation, or inflammation. However, dermaplaning is a gentle and non-invasive procedure that is well-tolerated by most skin types, including sensitive skin. It's also suitable for pregnant or nursing individuals who may need to avoid certain chemical ingredients found in other skincare treatments.
- Safe and Non-Invasive: Unlike more invasive procedures like microdermabrasion or laser resurfacing, dermaplaning is a safe and non-invasive treatment option. There's minimal risk of side effects or complications when performed by a trained and experienced esthetician or dermatologist. Plus, there's no downtime required, so you can return to your daily activities immediately after the treatment.
- Long-Term Results: While dermaplaning provides immediate benefits, such as smoother, brighter skin, it also offers long-term results with regular treatments. By promoting cell turnover and collagen production, dermaplaning helps maintain skin health and vitality over time. Many clients notice continued improvement in their skin's texture, tone, and overall appearance with ongoing dermaplaning sessions.
Who Can Benefit from Dermaplaning?
Dermaplaning is suitable for almost all skin types, including dry, oily, combination, and sensitive skin. Whether you're dealing with dullness, congestion, or simply want smoother skin, dermaplaning can help address various skincare concerns.
However, individuals with active acne or certain skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis may need to consult with a dermatologist before undergoing dermaplaning.
Dermaplaning vs. Other Hair Removal and Exfoliation Methods
One of the main advantages of dermaplaning is its ability to provide instant results without any downtime. Unlike waxing or threading, dermaplaning doesn't involve pulling or tugging on the skin, making it a gentler alternative for those with sensitive skin.
Additionally, dermaplaning offers a more thorough exfoliation compared to traditional scrubs or chemical peels. By manually removing dead skin cells and peach fuzz, dermaplaning reveals smoother, brighter skin without the risk of irritation or over-exfoliation.
Post-Dermaplaning Care and Maintenance
Post-dermaplaning care and maintenance are essential to ensure that you maintain the results of your treatment and keep your skin healthy and radiant. Here's a detailed guide on how to care for your skin after dermaplaning:
- Keep Your Skin Hydrated: After dermaplaning, your skin may feel slightly dry or tight. It's important to replenish moisture by using hydrating skincare products, such as a gentle moisturizer or hyaluronic acid serum. Look for products with soothing ingredients like aloe vera or ceramides to help calm any post-treatment redness or irritation.
- Avoid Harsh Ingredients: In the days following dermaplaning, it's best to avoid using harsh or abrasive skincare products that could irritate your skin. Steer clear of exfoliating scrubs, retinol creams, or products containing alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), as they may cause sensitivity or irritation.
- Protect Your Skin from the Sun: Sunscreen is crucial after dermaplaning, as your skin may be more sensitive to UV radiation. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every morning, even if you're not planning to spend extended time outdoors. Reapply sunscreen throughout the day, especially if you're exposed to direct sunlight.
- Avoid Heat and Sweat: In the first 24 to 48 hours post-dermaplaning, it's best to avoid activities that could cause excessive sweating or heat exposure, such as intense workouts or hot baths. Sweating can irritate the skin and increase the risk of post-treatment complications like breakouts or inflammation.
- Skip Makeup (If Possible): While it's generally safe to apply makeup after dermaplaning, it's best to give your skin some time to breathe and recover. If you can, try to go makeup-free for the first 24 hours after your treatment to allow your skin to heal properly. If you need to wear makeup, opt for lightweight, non-comedogenic formulas that won't clog your pores.
- Avoid Touching Your Face: Resist the temptation to touch or pick at your skin after dermaplaning, as this can introduce bacteria and lead to breakouts or infections. Instead, keep your hands clean and avoid touching your face unnecessarily to prevent irritation or complications.
- Follow Your Esthetician's Recommendations: Your esthetician may provide specific post-dermaplaning instructions tailored to your skin type and concerns. Be sure to follow their advice carefully and reach out if you have any questions or concerns about your post-treatment care routine.
By following these post-dermaplaning care and maintenance tips, you can help prolong the benefits of your treatment and keep your skin looking and feeling its best. Remember to prioritize gentle, hydrating skincare products and protect your skin from the sun to maintain your radiant complexion long-term. If you have any concerns or experience any unusual side effects after dermaplaning, don't hesitate to contact your esthetician for guidance and support.
Potential Side Effects and How to Minimize Them
While dermaplaning is generally considered safe and low-risk, there are potential side effects that you should be aware of. Here's a closer look at these side effects and how to minimize them:
- Redness and Irritation: Some individuals may experience temporary redness or irritation immediately after dermaplaning. This is normal and usually subsides within a few hours to a day. To minimize redness, avoid touching or rubbing your skin and opt for gentle, soothing skincare products.
- Sensitivity to Skincare Products: After dermaplaning, your skin may be more sensitive to certain skincare products, particularly those containing active ingredients like retinol or alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs). To minimize the risk of irritation, avoid using harsh or abrasive products for a few days post-treatment. Instead, opt for gentle, hydrating formulas that won't aggravate your skin.
- Breakouts: In some cases, individuals may experience temporary breakouts or acne flare-ups after dermaplaning. This can occur if bacteria are introduced to the skin during the treatment or if pores become temporarily clogged. To minimize breakouts, keep your skin clean and avoid touching your face unnecessarily. Use non-comedogenic skincare products and avoid heavy makeup that could clog your pores.
- Sun Sensitivity: Dermaplaning removes the top layer of dead skin cells, which can make your skin more susceptible to sunburn and UV damage. To protect your skin, be sure to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every morning, even on cloudy days. Reapply sunscreen throughout the day, especially if you're spending time outdoors.
- Ingrown Hairs: While dermaplaning removes vellus hair (peach fuzz) from the face, it does not prevent or treat ingrown hairs caused by coarse or curly hair follicles. If you're prone to ingrown hairs, take extra care when shaving or waxing and consider using exfoliating products to prevent them.
- Minor Cuts or Nicks: In rare cases, individuals may experience minor cuts or nicks during dermaplaning. This can occur if the esthetician applies too much pressure or if the blade is not used correctly. To minimize the risk of cuts or nicks, be sure to seek treatment from a qualified and experienced professional who follows strict hygiene protocols.
- Skin Flaking or Peeling: Some individuals may experience mild flaking or peeling of the skin a few days after dermaplaning. This is usually a sign of skin renewal and is not cause for concern. To minimize flaking, keep your skin hydrated with moisturizing products and avoid excessive exfoliation or harsh treatments.
Professional vs. DIY Dermaplaning
While there are at-home dermaplaning kits available, we always recommend seeking professional treatment for the best results and safety. Licensed estheticians and dermatologists have the expertise and training to perform dermaplaning safely and effectively, minimizing the risk of complications.
Professional dermaplaning treatments also use medical-grade tools and follow strict sanitation protocols, ensuring optimal results and reducing the risk of infection or injury.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is dermaplaning painful?
A: No, dermaplaning is a painless procedure that feels similar to shaving your face.
Q: How often should I get dermaplaning?
A: Most people benefit from dermaplaning every 4 to 6 weeks to maintain smooth, glowing skin.
Q: Can I wear makeup after dermaplaning?
A: Yes, you can apply makeup immediately after dermaplaning, but we recommend waiting a few hours to allow your skin to fully recover.
Q: How long do the results of dermaplaning last?
A: The results of dermaplaning typically last 3 to 4 weeks, depending on your skin type and skincare routine.
Book an appointment
If you're ready to experience the transformative benefits of dermaplaning, Hands On Wellness, Inc. is here to help. Our team of experienced estheticians specializes in providing safe, effective dermaplaning treatments to help you achieve smoother, brighter skin. Contact us today at 716-400-5142 or [email protected] to schedule your consultation and discover the power of dermaplaning for yourself.
