From the Guidelines
Dermaplaning is a effective procedure for exfoliating the skin and removing fine vellus hair, resulting in improved skin texture and appearance. This cosmetic procedure involves using a sterile surgical scalpel to gently scrape away dead skin cells and facial hair from the skin's surface. The treatment typically takes about 30 minutes and requires no downtime, with results lasting approximately 3-4 weeks before hair regrows. Dermaplaning can improve skin texture, reduce the appearance of fine lines, and allow for better product absorption and smoother makeup application. The procedure works because it physically removes the outermost layer of dead skin cells along with fine facial hair, instantly revealing smoother, brighter skin underneath. However, it's not recommended for those with active acne, rosacea, or extremely sensitive skin conditions. Despite myths, the hair does not grow back thicker or darker after treatment. For best results, dermaplaning should be performed by a licensed esthetician or dermatologist, and post-treatment care should include sun protection and gentle skincare products to avoid irritation.
Key Points to Consider
- Dermaplaning is a safe and effective procedure when performed by a licensed professional 1.
- The procedure can improve skin texture, reduce fine lines, and enhance product absorption 1.
- Dermaplaning is not recommended for individuals with active acne, rosacea, or sensitive skin conditions 1.
- Post-treatment care is crucial to avoid irritation and maintain results 1.
- The combination of dermaplaning with other treatments, such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP) or microdermabrasion, may enhance results 1.
Potential Risks and Benefits
- Benefits: improved skin texture, reduced fine lines, enhanced product absorption, and smoother makeup application.
- Risks: irritation, infection, and temporary redness or swelling. However, the benefits of dermaplaning outweigh the risks when performed by a licensed professional and with proper post-treatment care.
From the Research
Dermaplaning Efficacy
- Dermaplaning is a non-invasive procedure for facial rejuvenation, and its efficacy has been assessed in various studies 2.
- A systematic review of the literature found that the overall amount of scientific data supporting dermaplaning was scarce, anecdotal, and not well documented 2.
- However, many patients and physicians report being pleased with the results of dermaplaning, and it has become increasingly popular in the cosmetic market 2.
- Dermaplaning is most effective when included within a comprehensive skin care regimen consisting of sunscreen, vitamin therapy, and lifestyle modification 2.
Comparison with Other Procedures
- Dermaplaning can be compared to other exfoliation procedures such as microdermabrasion and chemical peels, which are used to treat various cosmetic and medical skin conditions 3, 4, 5.
- Microdermabrasion involves mechanical abrasion of the skin, while chemical peels involve applying acids directly to the skin to stimulate production of new skin and induce changes such as increasing production of collagen 3.
- Chemical peels are classified into superficial, medium, and deep according to their level of injury to the skin, and are safe and effective in the management of photoaging, scarring, pigmentary dyschromias, and in the destruction of superficial skin lesions 4, 5.
Safety and Recommendations
- As with any cosmetic procedure, providing patients with realistic expectations is essential to achieving optimal outcomes and patient satisfaction 2.
- Patients planning to undergo dermaplaning or other exfoliation procedures should be screened for absolute or relative contraindications, including recent use of retinoids, active skin infection, and immunosuppression 3.
- Aftercare instructions should be provided to patients to reduce pain, erythema, and itching, and to protect the skin from sun exposure 3.