Dermaplaning and Its Amazing Benefits

Many people dream of firm, smooth and radiant skin, so they are ready to do a lot. They diligently use various products from the cosmetics industry and try new skin improvement methods every day.

Dermaplaning, the treatment designed to revitalize the skin's condition, is also among their preferences, with a rapid increase in demand in America — after an explosion in popularity in Asia.

What are dermaplaning's most significant benefits, and what makes it one of the best skin treatments for treating imperfections?  

Dermaplaning: The Face Reviving Treatment 

This non-surgical, minimally invasive procedure for women and men can revitalize the complexion and make it look fresher. During treatment, an aesthetician passes a razor or scalpel over ​​the face, shaving off vellus hairs, commonly called peach fuzz, and dead skin cells from the skin's top layer. This action triggers new skin cell formation and revitalization, leading to a significantly fresher and more vital complexion.

To better understand what this cosmetic procedure does, the treatment is a type of mechanical peeling with hair removal.  As a result, the skin surface reflects more light, the lower skin layers receive a better oxygen supply, blood circulation is stimulated, and cell renewal occurs.

The dermaplaning procedure leads to a fresher complexion and a radiant appearance, also known as the 'glow' effect. In addition, dead skin cells no longer interfere with the effective absorption of active care ingredients, meaning that products, such as hyaluronic acid or vitamin A serums, can be better absorbed by the skin.

Many people confuse dermaplaning and dermabrasion. Although both have similar names, the two treatments differ significantly. Unlike dermaplaning, dermabrasion is a purely mechanical process that uses a rotating wire brush or a diamond wheel with rough edges to remove the upper layers of tissue and correct or eliminate undesired impurities. Dermabrasion is usually performed under local anesthesia.

What to Expect

Only certified practitioners, like aestheticians, plastic surgeons or dermatologists working in a licensed medical spa, should perform dermaplaning to get desired results and avoid side effects.

Before the procedure begins, patients have their faces prepared with a gentle cleanser enriched with alpha or beta hydroxy acids to help loosen dead skin cells. The skin must be completely dry before proceeding to the next step.

During the procedure, the trained professional uses a sterilized 10-gauge scalpel held at a 45-degree angle, performing short movements in the opposite direction of hair growth.  A moisturizer is then applied to the skin. The tool used has a very fine blade sharpened on one side, rounded at one end, allowing for precise work and little risk of injury, as no pressure is exerted.

Sessions last about 40 minutes and may be done every two weeks for best results. Patients can return to their usual activities after a short downtime.

The Benefits of Dermaplaning

While many choose this treatment for dead cells and hair removal to improve their facial appearance, this beauty treatment can do much more.

1. Radiant complexion

The treatment removes fine facial hairs, scrapes off dead skin cells, and acts as an intensive peeling. The result: your skin cells get more oxygen and actively regenerate. This is particularly important for the coveted "glow effect" because it occurs when your skin can fully reflect light, which doesn't happen if peach fuzz absorbs light instead.

2. Can help reduce acne

By removing dead skin cells, dermaplaning can reduce clogged pores and pimples caused by trapped bacteria. With less clogging of the sebaceous glands, the appearance of acne lessens.

On the other hand, people with cystic acne or open scabs from picked pimples should avoid these treatments as they can cause irritation and bleeding that worsens the problem. However, dermaplaning is still very effective in reducing the appearance of post-acne scars and dark spots.

3. Helps skincare products work better

After a dermaplaning treatment, you will benefit even more from using high-quality skincare products on your skin, as it can absorb more essential ingredients after the procedure. The treatment improves skin permeability and increases the effect of active ingredients due to the removal of dead cells. Enhancing capillary circulation also improves the diffusion of nutrients to the epidermis.

Therefore, products like moisturizing coconut oil, hyaluronic acid, retinoid creams, and essential oils for enhancing beauty will provide much more effective results following treatment. If unsure which products to apply, ask your dermatologist for advice.

In some cases, your doctor may also recommend a dermaplaning treatment before another procedure, such as laser treatment, microdermabrasion, or chemical peels. However, this will depend on your specific skin type.

4. Has an anti-aging effect

Following treatment, cell renewal initiates to revitalize the outer skin layer. Fine wrinkles and facial lines become less noticeable due to skin rejuvenation and better blood circulation, helping the skin form new and firmer cells. This effect stimulates cell renewal and collagen production to counteract the aging process.

5. Smooths the skin surface and improves its texture

Although some people turn to dermaplaning to reduce wrinkles, fine lines, hyperpigmentation, and scars, other dermatological treatments, like laser skin resurfacing or the application of topical products, may be more effective at fighting aging problems.

6. Facilitates makeup application 

Better makeup application is one of the most significant benefits. The treatment provides greater makeup hold and durability, in addition to leaving the skin with a desirable finish. As a result, makeup sets better on the treated skin, the finish is prettier, and the effect is longer lasting. After you remove peach fuzz from the face, primer, foundation, and other makeup products glide onto the skin and can be applied much more evenly, therefore lasting longer. Powder no longer sticks, eliminating caking, a dream for every woman who doesn't want to freshen up her makeup every few hours.

7. Results are visible immediately and last for several weeks

Dermaplaning removes dead cells that have accumulated for more than three weeks, meaning you will enjoy a month of purified skin. The best part is that you can repeat this treatment after a few weeks, depending on the recommendation of your aesthetic doctor, without worrying that your skin will be irritated or damaged.

8. Hair regrowth is neither darker nor thicker

Contrary to the popular myth that shaved hair will grow back much thicker or darker, hair regrowth will not change in any way after the treatment. The blade does not touch the hair follicle but stays above the root, constituting a non-aggressive superficial shave.

9. A gentle alternative to other treatments

Compared to chemical peelings, dermaplaning does not affect the skin's pH, making it particularly beneficial for people with sensitive and dry skin. Because it does not include acids or chemicals, the treatment is suitable for pregnant women.

10. Suitable for most skin types

As a non-invasive procedure, dermaplaning is usually suitable for most skin types with few risks or problems. However, if you have active acne, it is better not to use this treatment because, under certain circumstances, it can spread acne further on the face. Dermaplaning is also strictly not recommended for many skin diseases. Consult a board-certified dermatologist for recommendations.

Dermaplaning Side Effects 

Results vary from person to person. While some find the procedure particularly effective, others feel their skin condition has not improved, and the treatment has not justified dermaplaning cost.

The most common side effects include increased skin sensitivity and localized redness. Usually, these symptoms go away after a few hours. Among the less common side effects are minor nicks or cuts, stinging and itching, the appearance of white spots, infections, or scarring. Moreover, depending on the skin type, hairs may grow back under the skin afterward, especially in patients with darker skin who are more prone to curly hair growth.

If you receive this hair removal procedure in a dermatologist's office, you should get a consent form that describes the treatment's risks, benefits, and alternatives. However, to avoid common and less common side effects, avoid doing DIY dermaplaning. Improper techniques can lead to disappointing results and cause injuries.

Who is a Good Candidate for Dermaplaning?

Dermaplaning is indicated for people who seek lighter treatment alternatives. It is considered softer than microneedling or chemical peeling and suitable for most skin types. It's ideal for women who want to remove vellus hair and improve the top layers of skin to make it soft and silky. As a preparatory procedure prior to other aesthetic skin treatments, it can enhance the absorption of active ingredients in skin care products.

Contraindications

However, if you have active breakouts, waiting or seeking another procedure is better. Other conditions that dermaplaning can irritate include rosacea, psoriasis, neurodermatitis, or eczema. The risk of injury also slightly increases with uneven skin.  Other contraindications include:

• Active cold sores
• Elevated lesions
• Recent chemical
• Chemotherapy or radiotherapy
• A family history of hypertrophic scarring or keloid formation
• Hemophilia
• Hormone therapy that could lead to thick pigmentation
• Birthmarks
• The use of anticoagulant drugs
• Recent topical use of products containing glycolic acid, alpha-hydroxy acids, and retinoids
• Skin cancer
• Severe sunburn
• Tattoos
• Telangiectasia/erythema
• Extremely thick and dark vellus hairs
• Uncontrolled diabetes
• Blood vessel injuries

What to Expect After Dermaplaning

The results are visible immediately and quite impressive. At first glance, you will notice slight redness, and your skin may seem a little dry, but these effects are minimal.  After your session, you'll receive a moisturizing product to minimize redness.

You can book a dermaplaning session during your lunch break and be back at work around 40 minutes later with an ultra-glowy complexion because you'll experience no downtime. However, you must avoid direct sun exposure for the first 48-72 hours and apply sunscreen of at least SPF 30 because your face will be more sensitive to ultraviolet rays. Direct sun exposure will damage cells as you will temporarily not have a protective skin barrier. Wearing a hat is also recommended if you want to enjoy the full effects of this cosmetic procedure.

Patients should clean their skin with a gentle cleanser every morning and evening to reduce the risk of infection. Avoid touching your face immediately after the procedure. Discontinue using exfoliating agents for a least a week, avoiding ingredients with AHA like glycolic acid, those with BHA like salicylic acid, enzymes or agents like microspheres. These ingredients can cause post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), redness, drying or flaking.

Topical application of products such as an antioxidant serum with vitamin C and vitamin E is recommended, as dermaplaning's mechanical peeling effect augments their effectiveness.

Learn More About Dermaplaning 

The benefits of dermaplaning are myriad. This cosmetic procedure removes facial hair, gives you freshly exfoliated skin, reduces acne, improves makeup application, and comes with other tremendous advantages for those seeking a radiant and glowing complexion.

If you want a non-invasive procedure to revitalize your face without downtime and with minor risks, contact the VIVAA med spa staff at 425-250-9999 to schedule a consultation.

FAQ’s 

How often should I do dermaplaning?

To achieve the best results, you must give your skin enough time to regenerate between treatments. This is the only way to achieve the optimal effect and stimulate the cell structure of the epidermis. You can repeat treatments every three to four weeks.

Can you wear makeup after dermaplaning? 

While it is not harmful to wear makeup, avoid heavy cosmetics for the first 24 hours to allow your skin to breathe, fully heal, and reduce the risks of irritation or infection.

Can you do it at home? 

At-home dermaplaning is not recommended, as improper use of the exfoliating blade can damage your health. Only a qualified, trained professional should administer this treatment to avoid injuries, contamination, and possible skin infections.

Is dermaplaning painful? 

The word "scalpel" can be scary enough for some patients, but in reality, dermaplaning is a completely painless and harmless practice if done correctly. The only sensation you might experience during the procedure is a slight tingling sensation.

Is dermaplaning the same as shaving?

Up to a point, yes. Dermaplaning is like shaving your face. A blade removes the hair and dull skin to reveal smoother facial surfaces. However, in contrast to traditional shaving, dermaplaning is much gentler. The exfoliating blade is much smaller and exerts less pressure. It's all about removing the top layer of dead skin cells and the delicate, fluffy facial vellus hair. The other main difference from shaving is that it is more precise, thanks to the smaller blade.