What is dermaplaning?
Dermaplaning is a very safe effective method of exfoliation. As it only works on the surface layer of the skin, there is minimal downtime and very low risk of adverse reactions. As the microscopic layer of skin cells is gently removed from the epidermal (top) layer of skin, the cells in the underlying layers are signaled to move up and replace the missing top layer of skin. During this process, new collagen and elastin are stimulated to help improve the look of fine lines and wrinkles, brown spots begin to break up and move out from deep within the skin, and pores start to unplug and become smaller, helping with acne breakouts. Any facial hair will be removed from surface of your skin as well. The surface of your skin will appear smoother, more even-toned, and polished over time. This treatment is safe to do on a regular basis as part of an overall maintenance program for healthier, glowing skin. Treatments spaced 4-6 weeks apart are recommended. Results may be subtle and cumulative, and will become more apparent over the course of your treatments.
What should I expect during my treatment?
After assessing your skin and screening for any conditions that could rule out treatment, the areas to be treated will be thoroughly cleansed and prepped. We ask that contact lenses be removed prior to your visit. As your technician begins the treatment, you will start to feel a slight scraping sensation on your skin, as the small surgical blade removes the dead skin cells and “peach fuzz” from the epidermal layer. Some patients have described the sensation as feeling slightly rough, like a strong facial scrub. The entire area will be treated completely and then gently cleansed. Your technician will go over your treatment plan before and during your dermaplaning session, and then the appropriate professional products based on your skin’s individual needs will be applied. Lastly, a soothing serum and a protective sunscreen will be applied, and you’re good to go for the rest of the day. Most treatments take about 45-50 minutes, making this an ideal procedure for patients wanting a quick and effective way to refresh their appearance.
How do I prepare for my dermaplaning treatment?
All anti-aging or acne treatment products that you are currently using should be discontinued at least 3 days prior to your scheduled appointment, such as topical acne medications, retinoids and products containing alpha or beta hydroxy acids. Exposure to the sun should be avoided for a minimum of 1 week before and after your treatment. In addition, do not wax 1 week before or after your appointment, as this can remove a layer of skin cells and increase your risk of adverse reactions. Please arrive with minimal or no makeup. If you have an active cold sore, your appointment will need to be rescheduled until it is completely resolved. If you have cystic or active acne, you may not be a good candidate for dermaplaning.
How will my skin look after treatment?
Most patients will experience some mild redness that will diminish after a day or two. Your skin may feel more sensitive for a few days, almost as if you have a windburn, but this can be relieved with the application of hydrating serums and moisturizers and by avoiding excessive exercise or exposure to heat, as sweating may make your skin sting and feel uncomfortable. You may experience some acne breakouts in the days following your treatment, as the skin cells begin to turn over and congestion is purged from your skin. It is very important that you do not pick at your skin and use only gentle cleansers and moisturizers for a few days after your treatment so that your skin can heal properly. Most of these side effects resolve after a few days, but contact our office if they do not. Broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF 30 or higher is required immediately after and daily between appointments to protect your skin, as treated areas will be more sensitive to the sun. Most patients experience little to no downtime after dermaplaning, making this a great treatment when you want results without the wait.
How do I care for my skin after dermaplaning?
As your skin may be more sensitive to anti-aging or acne products after any type of exfoliating treatment, we recommend that you wait a minimum of 2- 3 days after treatment to resume their use. A gentle cleanser and hydrating serum or mild moisturizer are recommended to ensure that you don’t cause additional dryness or irritation as your skin is healing and repairing itself. Any issues after your treatment should be reported to our office immediately. Any facial hair that is removed with the dermaplaning blade will start growing back at its usual rate, as this is not a method of permanent hair removal. The hair is being shaved during the process and not removed from the root, so as it continues to grow out, it may feel thicker as it has been cut across the diameter of the hair. It is important to remember that shaving does not cause your hair to grow back thicker or darker. The only thing that really affects hair growth is hormones. Once your skin feels back to normal, you should be fine to resume your regular skin care routine. And remember, a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher must be worn daily, and excessive sun exposure is discouraged during your series of treatments. This will ensure you are protecting the investment you are making in your skin.
What other procedures does dermaplaning pair well with?
Since dermaplaning is a gentle, non-invasive procedure, it can be alternated or possibly combined with just about any other treatment such as chemical peels (including the VI Peel™ and The Perfect Derma™ Peel), Laser Genesis V™, IPL Photofacial, or SkinPen® microneedling, and can be part of a facial rejuvenation plan including injectables such as Botox® or Dysport®, and facial fillers like Juvéderm® or Restylane®. Let the team here at Tru-Skin Dermatology help you formulate a treatment plan to put your best face forward!
Dermaplaning FAQ:
Who is dermaplaning for?
Anyone who wants to polish and rejuvenate their skin with little to no downtime is the perfect candidate for dermaplaning, as all skin types can be safely treated. This treatment is also a perfect procedure for those looking for a way to stay on top of dull-looking skin, as a radiant glow can easily be achieved and maintained with regular treatments.
Who is not a good candidate for dermaplaning?
Almost everyone is a good candidate for dermaplaning, including those who are pregnant or nursing. However, if your skin is thin or extremely sensitive due to age or certain medications, you may not be a good candidate. In addition, if you have been using isotretinoin (Accutane) within the past 12 months, please advise your technician, as this medication can interfere with your skin’s ability to heal itself. Dermaplaning may not be recommended for patients with severe acne or rosacea, as this treatment may aggravate those conditions. Patients with more advanced signs of aging may not see dramatic results with dermaplaning, and may obtain more improvement by combining it with other procedures.
How many treatments will I need?
Dermaplaning can be performed initially in a series as often as 2 weeks apart, especially if you are trying to prepare for an important event. Most patients have a dermaplaning treatment once every 4-8 weeks as part of a maintenance regimen. Your technician can help determine what course of treatment is best for your individual needs. Results are cumulative, and you will notice increased improvement with each treatment.
How long does each treatment take, and does dermaplaning hurt?
Depending on the areas being treated, most sessions take 45-50 minutes, and are virtually painless.
What areas can be treated with dermaplaning?
The face is the most commonly treated area, but dermaplaning may be used on the neck as well.
How much does dermaplaning cost?
You can purchase an individual treatment if you wish, but as a series of treatments is recommended for best results, packages of 3 treatments are available and affordably priced. Our menu of services with pricing can be found HERE.
How long will my results last?
Depending on the person and the skin conditions being treated, results usually last between 1-2 months. Since dermaplaning is a non-invasive treatment, and the cells that are removed are gradually replaced within a month or so, ongoing treatments are recommended. You can think of dermaplaning as a great tool in your toolkit for achieving and maintaining healthy skin, sort of like getting regular haircuts to maintain your hairstyle. For the best results in retaining the benefits of dermaplaning, daily sun protection and the use of medical-grade skin care products are recommended. Tru-Skin Dermatology can help you set up a customized skin care regimen to target your individual needs. We carry several lines of professional products to help you achieve your best skin possible. Call us today to start your journey to healthier looking skin!
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