What to Know Before a Dermaplaning Treatment

Keeping up with all of the newest beauty trends and high-tech skincare treatments these days is a lot of work. Dermaplaning is a popular dermatology practice that simplifies it all. For a first-timer, plenty of questions could be on your mind, such as “Is dermaplaning safe?” “Will it hurt?” or “How does it work?” Not to worry – we’ll answer these questions and more. Let’s dive in!

What to Know About Dermaplaning

What Is Dermaplanning?

The dermaplaning procedure may seem a little strange and a tad scary. So really, what is dermaplaning? On the face and neck, a certified dermatologist uses a medical-grade scalpel to remove superfluous dead skin cells and “peach fuzz” or vellus hairs. This procedure is not painful and feels a lot like shaving.

The dermaplaning treatment will take no longer than an hour, and you will be ready to resume your normal routine immediately. Some patients choose to have their therapy during their lunch break. Immediately following your session, your skin may seem somewhat pink, but this will fade rapidly. Wearing sunscreen and limiting excessive sun exposure is especially recommended the day after your treatment, when your skin may be more sensitive.

What Are the Benefits of Dermaplanning?

Dermaplaning is a method that improves the texture and look of the skin on the face and neck, similar to other popular skin care treatments like microdermabrasion and chemical peels. Benefits of dermaplaning include:

• Unwanted peach fuzz removed

• Dead skin cells removed

• Acne scars reduced in appearance

• Absorption of topical therapies improved

• Wrinkles and dark spots reduced

• Indications of aging diminished

Preparing for a Dermaplaning Session

The treatment is a completely painless, non-invasive process that requires very little recovery time. In the two weeks leading up to the session, you must prepare in order to ensure that the treatment’s full advantages are realized.

Whether you want a home dermaplaning or an in-clinic session, the treatment is not recommended if you have an active acne breakout, rosacea, psoriasis, allergies, or anything that is elevated above the skin. If you’re taking a powerful anti-acne or anti-aging treatment like retinol, benzoyl peroxide, or even salicylic acid, your skin is already sensitive, so it’s not a good idea to get dermaplaning.

It’s also a good idea to do the following:

Seek the Advice of a Reputable Aesthetician or Dermatologist

The first step is to arrange an initial consultation with a professional dermatologist or licensed aesthetician. At our office, a dermatologist will assess your skin, discuss with you your aesthetic problems, and determine if this is the appropriate therapy for you.

Avoid the Sun

Your dermatologist can’t start working on any form of skin care treatment if your skin is even slightly burned. In the week or two leading up to your dermaplaning session, avoid sun exposure, especially if you are prone to sunburns and redness.

Stop Exfoliating Altogether

Stop exfoliating for at least three to five days before your treatment. Extra abrasive topicals aren’t essential because the dermaplaning procedure already exfoliates to the extreme. You put yourself in danger of over-exfoliation and irritation if you continue to use a chemical peel and manual exfoliators at home. It’s better to put those lotions and scrubs away for a few days before your dermaplaning procedure.

A bonus tip would be to avoid waxing, as it makes your skin sensitive.

If you’re in Cincinnati, Ohio, our experts at The Dermatology Group can help. We can give you advice, resources, and treatment options that are sure to fit your lifestyle. Give us a call today!