Dermaplaning
Minimize the appearance of acne scars, fine lines, wrinkles and dull skin, as well as exfoliating the skin and hair follicles and potentially boosting collagen for a smoother, renewed skin.
ABOUT Dermaplaning
wHAT IT IS
Dermaplaning is a non-invasive medical treatment using a surgical blade to manually exfoliate the skin to eliminate the dead cells and unwanted facial hair.
The treatment brightens and evens out skin tone and texture, revealing smoother skin and a healthier overall complexion. In some patients, it may also stimulate collagen production. Additionally, skin care products and makeup absorb better for a revitalized look. While it will not remove all skin flaws or scars and does not prevent aging, it is still considered a great skin rejuvenation option.
The benefits are similar to a mild chemical peel or microdermabrasion, however, can be used on most all skin types.
You are not a candidate for dermaplaning if you have open, active acne or rosacea flare-up.
Dermaplaning is the process of delicately exfoliating the skin to remove dead skin cells and unwanted facial hair. The treatment is done with a surgical blade or scalpel and considered non-invasive.
You may benefit from dermaplaning if your skin is dry, dull, has noticeable fine lines and wrinkles, rough skin texture, uneven skin tone such as sunspots and melasma.
how it works
This treatment is non-invasive, relaxing and performed by an aesthetic nurse. Skin is prepped to remove any makeup, product or excessive oils. A special surgical blade held at a 45-degree angle is used to gently and evenly strip away the top layers of your skin including the dead skin cells and vellus hair (“peach fuzz.”) A special oil may also be applied during the process. Once the dermaplaning treatment is complete, a facial mask for added relaxation and advanced healing is applied. Sunscreen application marks the end of the treatment. The overall treatment will take approximately an hour.
WHAT TO EXPECT
FAQs
-
While dermaplaning is effective at removing the top layers of the dead skin cells resulting in reduced fine lines, acne scars and even skin tone and texture, with some patients require a series of treatments to see significant results. Many patients see positive changes in their skin after two or three treatments.
It takes approximately 21 days for a new layer of dead skin cells to accumulate so this treatment is recommended every 4-6 weeks.
-
Dermaplaning is generally a painless treatment; however, there is a potential for the skin to get nicked or cut slightly during the process. If this happens, your aesthetic nurse will apply Arnica gel to the area to reduce the bleeding and soothe the area.
-
There is no downtime and can be done during a lunchtime; however, your skin will be extra sensitive and will need to be always protected by a sunscreen especially the 5 days after treatment. Sun exposure on post exfoliated skin can cause hyperpigmentation.
-
While dermaplaning is effective at removing the top layers of the dead skin cells resulting in reduced fine lines, acne scars and even skin tone and texture, with some patients require a series of treatments to see significant results. Many patients see positive changes in their skin after two or three treatments.
It takes approximately 21 days for a new layer of dead skin cells to accumulate so this treatment is recommended every 4-6 weeks.
-
Dermaplaning by a medical professional such as an aesthetic nurse includes the process of exfoliating the skin as well as removing the vellus hair therefore shaving and dermaplaning is not the same.
-
The greatest concern post dermaplaning is the risk for hyperpigmentation after sun and heat exposure. It is recommended to avoid the sun and heat for 5 days post treatment and apply generous amounts of sunscreen on when out in the sun.
Some patients are concerned the vellus hair will grow back thicker, darker and coarser when removed via dermaplaning. This is a false misconception. The hair will grow back at a normal rate and does not change in thickness, coarseness or color.
Other side effects include redness and skin irritation.
-
Avoid:
Retin-A or other exfoliating creams 3 days prior to your treatment.
Sun tanning or tanning creams/sprays for at least a week before treatment.
Waxing or tanning the skin to be treated prior to the treatment.
Best Practices:
If you have had a recent chemical peel or other skin procedures, such as collagen injections, you should wait 2-3 weeks before scheduling your dermaplaning treatment.
If you have a current open wound, schedule the appointment once the wound has healed.
If you have a current infection, schedule the appointment once the infection is resolved and antibiotic treatment is completed.
Treatment Not Recommended if:
You have recently had laser surgery.
You have used Accutane in the past 6 months.
You have been diagnosed with the following conditions: Hepatitis C, HIV or AIDS, any type of blood cancer, or skin cancer in the area to be treated.
You have undergone radiation in the past year.
You are pregnant or breastfeeding.
-
Reminders to Maximize Recovery Time and Results:
Keep the new skin clean and moisturized
Creams with hyaluronic acid or cold compresses may be used as necessary
Use a gentle cleanser
Do not use glycolic, alpha hydroxy, beta hydroxy, retinol, benzyl peroxide, or topical acne medications for 24-48 hours following treatment.
Avoid scratching, rubbing or picking the treated areas
Avoid harsh chemicals or tanning for one week as they may irritate the skin decreasing the effects of the dermaplaning.
Avoid sun exposure for at least 7 days after treatment to prevent UV rays from damaging your skin which slows down the recovery and overall effects of the dermaplaning.
Best Practices:
Peeling may occur in the treated areas; a moisturizer should help minimize this effect.
Patients who cannot avoid sun exposure should use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.
You may resume prescription retinoid products 3 - 7 days after treatment.