What Is Dermaplaning? The Best Tool to Get Softer Skin
June 8, 2023
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If you have spent even a few minutes on beauty TikTok recently, then you have no doubt seen videos on dermaplaning. In this guide, we’ll explain what dermaplaning is, how to dermaplane at home, and how often to dermaplane. Then we’ll explore the pros and cons of dermaplaning and investigate how to care for your skin after dermaplaning.
What Is Dermaplaning?
Dermaplaning is a procedure that uses a razor or surgical blade to shave fine hairs (a.k.a. peach fuzz) and dead skin cells from your face. While it was originally developed as an in-office dermatology procedure, you can now buy dermaplane blades that you can use at home. When done correctly, dermaplaning is non-invasive and should not be painful at all. It only removes the top layer of dead skin cells for an effective exfoliation experience.
How To Dermaplane At Home?
As long as you are careful, you can dermaplane at home. To dermaplane, first cleanse your face of any products or residue and pat it completely dry. If your skin is dry or sensitive, you can apply an oil or moisturizer before your dermaplane. This will create a product barrier between the blade and your skin, which can reduce irritation. It also helps the blade glide more easily over your face.
Ensure that you are using a clean blade, and turn on your tool if you are using an electric razor that vibrates. Hold one section of skin taut and operate the dermaplane blade with the other. Hold the blade at a 45-degree angle and make short, light strokes; be careful not to press too hard on the skin. Shave in a downward motion if at all possible to reduce the risk of irritation.
Wipe off the blade every stroke or two to keep the hair from piling up. You might also need to take breaks to periodically wipe off your face so that you can clearly see the areas you still need to shave.
How Often Should You Dermaplane?
You should not dermaplane more frequently than once a month, so allow at least four weeks between procedures. The effects of dermaplaning should last for several weeks, so you shouldn’t need to dermaplane more frequently than that. If you have sensitive skin or take a while to recover from exfoliation procedures, you might want to dermaplane even less frequently, maybe once a quarter or season.
Is Dermaplaning Good For Your Skin?
Dermaplaning offers many potential benefits for your skin. First of all, it removes peach fuzz and provides light exfoliation. Dermaplaning also smooths out your complexion and creates a more even base for makeup. It also brightens your appearance and can help to reduce dry patches and uneven texture. If you exfoliate regularly at home and your normal routine isn’t quite cutting it, dermaplaning can give you the extra exfoliation boost you’ve been looking for.
However, there are some risks that you should be aware of, especially if you don’t dermaplane properly. For one, you cannot dermaplane over active breakouts, cuts, blisters, sores, or other openings in the skin. You can also accidentally nick yourself if you’re not careful. Dermaplaning can also inflame sensitive skin or acne, especially if you’re prone to conditions such as rosacea or keratosis pilaris. If you don’t feel like dermaplaning is the right choice for your skin, there are plenty of other exfoliation options, including chemical serums and energizing face scrubs.
What To Do After Dermaplaning?
After dermaplaning, your skin may feel a bit sensitive, so it’s best to treat it gently. Skip the harsh, stripping cleansers and choose a milk or cream face wash instead. Focus on hydrating serums and multi-use moisturizers that will protect and soften the skin. Avoid using any harsh, potential irritating ingredients, including other exfoliators, until your skin recovers. We also recommend limiting or skipping makeup and other cosmetics until your skin recovers.
However, you should definitely protect your skin by using a mineral sunscreen with protection of at least SPF 30. You should avoid sun exposure and seek shade instead, especially when the rays are the strongest between 10 am and 4 pm. Wear sunglasses and a wide brimmed hat to protect your face, since it may be extra sensitive to sun exposure after dermaplaning.
Enjoy smoother, brighter skin with dermaplaning! Shop shaving essentials from Fieldtrip Skincare to take your shaving routine to the next level.