Dermaplaning isn’t exactly a new treatment, but thanks to the rise of social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok you’re fairly likely to have seen some influencer or beauty enthusiast carefully undergoing a dermaplaning treatment. From the outset, it just looks like shaving and it’s completely normal to wonder what exactly dermaplaning is. Well, have no fears, we’re here to explain just what it is, what it’s capable of doing for you and what kind of results you can expect to achieve from a dermaplaning session.
What exactly is dermaplaning?
Dermaplaning for the face is a specialized cosmetic procedure that is designed to rejuvenate the appearance of the skin. The treatment itself involves using a scalpel to gently scrape away the epidermis (the outermost layer of the skin) and any small hairs (known as vellus hairs) that are present on the skin. Generally, a session takes somewhere between 15-30 minutes depending on the area that is to be treated, and provides results that leave the skin looking fresh and clear.
Is it the same as just shaving?
This is a simple one to answer, no it’s not the same. Dermaplaning involves shaving off the outer layer of the skin and whilst that does mean it shaves away the fine hairs that are present on the surface of the skin, the primary reason to undergo a dermaplaning treatment isn’t to remove hair. Shaving on the other hand is performed to simply just cut the hair at skin level and, providing that you’re shaving correctly, should not remove any layers of skin in the process.
Dermaplaning is often performed in combination with facial treatments to boost the effects of both treatments, leaving the skin looking youthful and radiant.
What are the benefits to undergoing a dermaplaning treatment?
One of the biggest benefits is actually probably the main reason why people opt to undergo dermaplaning and that is simply that it is capable of removing the fine vellus hairs that are found on the face. This hair, which some people refer to as peach fuzz hair, is found all over the body and serves to keep the body warm and protect the skin.
The problem that some people have however is that their vellus hair is thicker or darker than others which can cause issues with self esteem and confidence, and while there are other treatments that can be performed to target these hairs (such as waxing or threading) they don’t always provide the results that the individual person is looking to achieve.
Another major benefit to dermaplaning is that it doesn’t just shave away the outer layer, it actually exfoliates the skin too. The scalpel is used to remove a superficial layer of dead skin known as the stratum corneum, which leaves the skin looking brighter.
As the new layer of skin that comes through is fresh and new, it allows for the easier absorption of creams and lotions into the skin and also allows for makeup to be applied more smoothly and evenly.
What about the cons to dermaplaning?
Whilst it may seem like the ideal treatment to brighten the skin, it does come with some cons that you should know before booking in for a dermaplaning session. For one, you’re having the outer layer of the skin shaved away with an incredibly sharp scalpel so there is always a risk of the skin being cut if the treatment is not performed carefully.
Another thing to take into consideration is that the layer of skin on the surface before your treatment will be used to the external elements, whereas the layer that is on the surface when you have finished your dermaplaning treatment will be completely different and new. This means it will be extra sensitive and you will need to be incredibly careful in making sure that you take the correct steps to take care of it. This means avoiding going out in the sunlight wherever possible for the first week or so and using a high SPF sunscreen to protect yourself from UV rays if you do need to venture outside, as well as the use of moisturisers to make sure the new skin doesn’t become too dry.
Is there any reason I should avoid dermaplaning?
Although dermaplaning is suitable for most skin types and complexions, there are a few different instances where you should take careful consideration before booking your appointment. Firstly, if you’re experiencing an active flare-up of a condition like acne, rosacea or eczema you should hold off on booking a dermaplaning treatment as it could cause further irritation (which is completely unnecessary) and can cause the skin to peel more than usual. There is also the worry that the blade could cause damage to an affected area of skin affecting the amount of time that it would take to heal.
Another thing to take into consideration is cold sores. If you have a history of having coldsores than you will need to make the aesthetician aware before beginning the treatment as this area will need to be avoided. It’s also recommended to take some form of antiviral medication as the cold sores can spread to the treated area and cause further problems.
How often should I book a session?
This will vary from person to person but generally the best timeframe to keep the skin looking fresh and youthful is to undergo a dermaplaning session no more than once per month. This will give the skin time to heal between sessions and as the epidermis itself is partially responsible for protecting your and your skin from irritants in the outside world, undergoing too many dermaplaning sessions in a short space of time can cause unnecessary damage to the skin.
So there you have it, the lowdown on dermaplaning and the knowledge of what it is capable of doing to your skin. From our point of view, we would say it is completely worth it for someone who is looking for younger and more radiant looking skin as it doesn’t require the use of any surgical procedures or chemicals, it’s simply just shaving and exfoliating the outer layer of skin away. To find out more or to book a dermaplaning session, use our live chat system or contact us today.