What is it, who is it for, is it at risk

Dermaplaning is a minimally invasive procedure that shaves off the top layers of skin to reveal the brighter skin underneath. Potential benefits of dermaplaning include reducing the appearance of acne scars and pitted skin, exfoliating dull and dry skin, and removing unwanted hair.

This article covers everything you need to know about skin resurfacing, including its benefits and risks, as well as the steps involved in the procedure.

What is Dermaplaning?

During a skin planing session, a dermatologist or other healthcare provider uses a dermatome, a scalpel-like hand-held surgical device, to gently shave away thin layers of skin and hair. It is sometimes used in combination with other skin care treatments or alone as a deep exfoliation method.

Depending on your particular skin type and needs, your esthetician or dermatologist may perform dermaplaning on just a small “problem area” or on your entire face. It is often used to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and acne scars.

Dermaplaning vs. Dermabrasion vs. Microdermabrasion: What’s the Difference?

Dermabrasion, dermabrasion, and microdermabrasion are similar methods of removing the top layers of skin to reveal a layer of skin underneath. All can be performed either with a kit at home or professionally by a dermatologist.

The main differences between the three skin resurfacing treatments include the tools used and the number of skin layers that can be removed in a single session, as follows:

• Microdermabrasion it involves either spraying microcrystals over the skin or using a diamond-shaped device to remove dead skin cells, followed by a vacuum-like suction process to remove the exfoliated skin.
• Dermabrasion removes the top layers of your skin with an electric rotating brush. It is more invasive and can be more painful than microdermabrasion, but produces more dramatic results.
• Dermaplaning it uses a scalpel-like cuticle, which looks like a straight razor with a sharp blade. It is used for deeper exfoliation than microdermabrasion and can remove more of the top layers of skin and hair.

Benefits of Dermaplaning

Potential benefits of dermaplaning include:

• Reduce the appearance of fine lines
• Remove or minimize the appearance of acne scars and pitted skin
• Dull and/or dry skin shine
• “Peach” (eyelash) removal
• Improving skin texture
• Treatment of sun-damaged skin
• Allows deeper absorption of skin care products
• Preparing the skin for other skin care treatments or surgical procedures

Who is Dermaplaning suitable for?

Dermaplaning can benefit almost anyone who wants to improve the texture and appearance of their skin. People whose skin has been damaged by the sun, people who have noticed signs of skin aging, and people with certain skin conditions, such as rosacea (a chronic condition that causes red skin and a rash on the face), may turn to dermaplaning for to skin smoother and brighter.

You should avoid skin planing if you have any of the following:

• An active acne breakout
• Cold sores
• Skin rashes
• Burns
• Moles or skin tags

What happens before Dermaplaning?

Before a dermaplaning appointment, your dermatologist or esthetician will discuss your goals for the session and what you would like to improve on your skin. They may also ask you about past reactions to skin care treatments and advise you of any potential risks or side effects from the procedure.

Your clinician may also ask you to prepare for your appointment by cleansing your face, removing makeup and skin care products, and not applying certain medications, such as topical acne products, for several days beforehand.

What happens during Dermaplaning?

The esthetician or dermatologist may apply a cream or anesthetic to your skin at the beginning of your appointment to reduce discomfort. During the session, your clinician will hold the dermatome at an angle to carefully remove the top layers of your skin. This is usually painless, although you may feel pressure from the instrument. A dermaplaning session can last minutes or last up to an hour.

What happens after Dermaplaning?

At the end of your session, your healthcare provider may apply products to your skin to allow for deeper penetration. You should see visible results immediately. Your skin may show signs of irritation, such as slight redness or tenderness, which may take up to three months to fade.

What are the risks of Dermaplaning?

Dermaplaning is usually a safe and effective procedure with relatively few risks. However, there are some possible side effects, such as:

• Scars
• Notches and cuts
• Fever blisters
• Skin irritation, including redness and pain
• Thickened skin

Do you need multiple Dermaplaning procedures?

The results of Dermaplaning are not permanent. If you had dermaplaning for hair removal, you may be able to enjoy your results for several weeks before the hair starts to grow back. Many people have dermaplaning sessions once a month to ensure they see continuous improvements in the look and feel of their skin.

Summary

Dermaplaning is an outpatient skin care treatment that removes the top layers of skin to reduce visible signs of aging, remove hair and minimize acne scars. Potential risks include scarring and infection, although these are relatively rare.

It is safer and more effective to undergo dermaplaning with a trained professional than to try it yourself at home. See a dermatologist for an appointment if you think dermaplaning might be right for you.