FAQS – DERMAPLANING

What is Dermaplaning?

Dermaplaning is a treatment that uses a medical scalpel to gently exfoliate the outer layer of dead skin cells and remove fine facial hair commonly known as “peach fuzz”, technically called “vellus” hair.  It can be used as an alternative to laser treatments and microdermabrasion or along with them for an enhanced result. This procedure will give your skin a more radiant appearance.  Following the treatment, makeup application is smoother and skincare products are able to penetrate deeper in turn making them more effective.

Am I a good candidate?

The ideal candidate for Dermaplaning has aging, dry, rough, or uneven skin tone.  Dermaplaning can also help reduce the appearance of shallow acne scars, fine lines and superficial hyperpigmentation.

Is the treatment safe?

This treatment is extremely safe when performed by a properly trained skincare professional. There is no more risk to the skin than when you shave your legs. There is also no downtime associated with this procedure.

Does it hurt? Will it cause cuts?

Dermaplaning is effective by performing a gentle scraping motion across the skin’s surface.  With hair removal such as waxing and threading, most people have the idea that all hair removal is painful, but Dermaplaning is entirely painless.  There are risks of cuts on the skin, however they are small and very minor as the pressure used for Dermaplaning cannot cause a deep cut. These nicks and scrapes  heal within 24-48 hours.

Will it make the hair on my face grow back thicker and darker?

No.  There are different types of hair that grow on the body; vellus hair and terminal hair. Vellus hair is found on most areas of the body except palms, soles, lips and genital areas, whereas terminal hairs are found on the scalp, underarms and pubic region and on men the beard area. The soft and fine vellus hair grows back at the same rate and texture.

What is the benefit of adding a microneedling with Dermaplaning?

Hyperkeratosis is a build up of dead skin cells on the skin’s surface. By removing this initial layer, you are allowing the microneedling serum to penetrate deeper into the dermis resulting in a more effective treatment.  The combination of dermaplaning and microneedling leaves the skin refreshed and rejuvenated.  Together they promote new collagen, new skin growth and target problems such as aging, sun spots and environmental damage.

How long is the treatment? How often can I have it done?

Dermaplaning takes anywhere between 30-45 minutes and can be performed every 6-8 weeks. The treatment itself removes approximately 21 days worth of dead skin so it is important to let your skin rejuvenate before your next appointment.

Why wouldn’t I be able to have Dermaplaning done?

Contraindications for Dermaplaning include:

  • Current or recent use of Accutane with in the last 6 months, eczema, dermatitis, malignant skin tumors, open lesions, lupus, active herpes infection, sunburn and keratoses.
  • Allergy to nickel
  • Clients who have cystic acne
  • Any Cancer therapy (chemotherapy, radiation)
  • Blood thinners

What are the pre-care procedures?

In order to achieve the best results, it is best to follow the pre care instructions.

Prior to your procedure, clients are advised of the following:

  • Do not use Retinol-A or other exfoliating creams 72 hours prior to your treatment.
  • Avoid sun tanning or tanning creams/sprays for at least a week before treatment
  • You must NOT have recently had laser surgery or used Accutane. Accutane (isotretinoin) therapy, also known as isotretinoin, is a medication on the market to treat acne. During therapy and up to 6 months after completing isotretinoin, the skin is highly sensitive and chances of scarring are high; therefore, it is recommended you wait at least 6 months after completing therapy to consider Dermaplaning
  • Clients who have had a recent chemical peel or other skin procedure, such as Botox or filler injections, should wait two weeks before undergoing Dermaplaning.
  • Clients should also refrain from waxing the skin to be treated for 72 hours prior to Dermaplaning
  • Clients must not have an active cold sore. If you are prone to cold sores, please let us know so we can discuss your options

What is the Post care procedures?

To maximize dermaplaning recovery time and results, it is important to follow all post-procedure instructions below:

  • Wash your face with a gentle, acid-free cleanser, tepid water and avoid topical products that contain alpha or beta hydroxyl acids, retinols or Retinol-A for approximately 72 hours (longer if possible). If irritation occurs after applying the above products, wait a few more days to allow your skin to heal. Under no circumstances should you use a product that abrades the skin within the 72-hour period (no scrubs), nor should you submerge the treated area in chlorinated pool or hot tub for 3 to 5 days.
  • Avoid sun exposure as much as possible for a minimum of 14 days post treatment. If you must be in the sun, apply SPF 30 or greater, reapply often, wear a wide-brimmed hat, and seek shade when possible.
  • Avoid excessive heat 14 days post treatment, i.e. heavy workouts, steam rooms or saunas, etc.
  • Avoid chlorine for 24 hours
  • Avoid facial waxing for 7 days
  • Avoid dermal fillers and Botox for 2 to 3 weeks.
  • Do not pick, scratch or aggressively rub the treated area.
  • No scrubs, polishers or aggressive brushes should be used for 7 days.
  • Makeup may be worn if the skin is not broken.
  • Do apply serums as absorption levels will, and therefore effectiveness is increased.

You may experience slight peeling for the first few days. Slight windburn sensation and/or blotchiness are normal for the first few days. Skincare products may tingle or slightly burn for the first 2 days.

Can you use a regular razor to dermaplane?

While you can use a regular razor to shave your face, you will not get the same results as you would if you used a proper dermaplaning tool, which uses a sharp, single blade. “You will not get nearly the amount of dead skin and peach fuzz removed as you will with a professional dermaplaning treatment.”