OVERVIEW
OVERVIEWIf your face has been looking a little dull and lackluster lately, a session of dermaplaning may be right for you. This popular cosmetic procedure is non-invasive, quick, and results in a brighter complexion, as well as smoother-looking skin.
Here's what you need to know about dermaplaning, including whether this cosmetic treatment is right for you.
What is Dermaplaning?
A type of exfoliation, dermaplaning temporarily removes the top layer of dead skin cells and peach fuzz that sits atop your face. This results in skin that's softer, smoother, and brighter looking. As dermaplaning removes peach fuzz, people that wear makeup report experiencing a smoother and more seamless application.
Your board-certified plastic surgeon may also prescribe dermaplaning as a prep step for other treatments such as:
- Facials
- Chemical Peels
- Microdermabrasion
What are the Benefits of Dermaplaning?
The most visible result after dermaplaning is how smooth your skin feels and how bright it looks. This is due to the removal of tiny hairs, commonly known as peach fuzz, and the top layer of dead skin cells.
In addition, some patients also report the following after treatment of dermaplaning:
- softening of fine lines and wrinkles
- lessening of hyperpigmentation
- improvement of deep acne scars
The effectiveness of dermaplaning is individualized and depends on the patient's skin type, skin tone, and overall medical history.
Is Dermaplaning Right for You?
While dermaplaning is a non-invasive treatment with minimal downtime, it is not suitable for everyone. Talking to a board-certified doctor with experience in dermaplaning will help determine whether it's right for you.
In general, you should not try dermaplaning if you have:
- Active acne
- Rosacea
- Facial surgery, including a facelift, in the last six weeks
If you have dry or sensitive skin, you might want to steer clear of this treatment. Dermaplaning can also make your skin more susceptible to sunburn, so it's essential to use sunscreen after your treatment.
What to Expect During a Dermaplaning Procedure
Dermaplaning is an outpatient procedure that's usually performed in a spa, dermatologist, or cosmetic surgeon's office.
Your board-certified doctor will conduct a thorough evaluation to determine whether you're a good candidate for dermaplaning. This will include your current health, family history of illness, as well as your overall aesthetic goals.
A dermaplaning session will begin by cleaning and prepping your skin. Your skin is then held stretched with one hand, while a surgical scalpel is used to scrape away the top layer of dead cells and peach fuzz. This procedure lasts approximately 30 minutes and can be done with or without the use of general anesthesia or a numbing agent.
And, because dermaplaning is a non-invasive procedure, downtime is minimal.
After your dermaplaning treatment, you can expect your skin to feel softer and smoother. You may also notice a more radiant complexion. Your makeup will go on more smoothly, and your skin will be better able to absorb moisture.
Dermaplaning is Safe When Performed by a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon
However, dermaplaning is not suitable for everyone, which is why setting up an appointment with a board-certified plastic surgeon is essential to determine whether you're a good candidate for dermaplaning.
Most of the risks associated with dermaplaning are simply being too aggressive at removing the top layers of skin. You will want to ensure that you are getting it done by a professional and that the individual has prior experience with this procedure.
However, the most common side effects are minor and usually go away on their own within a few days. They include:
- Skin irritation
- Redness
- Dryness
- Minor bleeding
Dermaplaning can also make your skin more sensitive to the sun, so it's essential to use sunscreen after your treatment.
In some cases, there may be some painful sensations associated with this process, but these should not be too severe, and they should go away within 24 hours.
Overall, dermaplaning is a safe and effective way to brighten your complexion and eliminate that peach fuzz. If you're looking for a way to improve your skin's appearance, dermaplaning might be the answer. Talk to your dermatologist or esthetician about whether dermaplaning is right for you.
