OVERVIEW
If 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 and smoother-looking skin.
Here's what you need to know about dermaplaning, including whether this cosmetic treatment suits you.
What is Dermaplaning?
A type of exfoliation, dermaplaning temporarily removes the top layer of dead skin cells and peach fuzz atop your face. This results in skin that's softer, smoother, and brighter looking. As dermaplaning removes peach fuzz, people who 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 removing 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 unsuitable 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
You might want to steer clear of this treatment if you have dry or sensitive skin. Dermaplaning can also make your skin more susceptible to sunburn, so using sunscreen after your treatment is essential.
What to Expect During a Dermaplaning Procedure
Dermaplaning is an outpatient procedure usually performed in a spa, dermatologist, or cosmetic surgeon's office.
Your board-certified doctor will thoroughly evaluate you to determine whether you're a good candidate for dermaplaning. This will include your current health, family history of illness, and 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 general anesthesia or a numbing agent.
And, because dermaplaning is a non-invasive procedure, downtime is minimal.
After your dermaplaning treatment, your skin will 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, so 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 disappear within a few days. They include:
- Skin irritation
- Redness
- Dryness
- Minor bleeding
Dermaplaning can also make your skin more sensitive to the sun, so using sunscreen after your treatment is essential.
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.
Disclaimer:
The information on this website is provided for educational and information purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult with a licensed medical provider and follow their recommendations regardless of what you read on this website. If you think you are having a medical emergency, dial 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. Links to other third-party websites are provided for your convenience only. If you decide to access any of the third-party websites, you do so entirely at your own risk and subject to the terms of use for those websites. Neither Sunrise Women's Healthcare, nor any contributor to this website, makes any representation, express or implied, regarding the information provided on this website or any information you may access on a third-party website using a link. Use of this website does not establish a doctor-patient relationship. If you would like to request an appointment with a health care provider, please call our office at 480-497-2229.