What is Dermaplaning?
Dermaplaning is a cosmetic procedure that uses a surgical blade to manually exfoliate the surface of the skin to remove the dead top layer of old skin cells and vellus hair or “peach fuzz”. It is also sometimes referred to as micro-planing or blading. The aim is to make the surface of your skin smooth, more youthful, and GLOWING. It's also a great tool for prepping the skin by removing tough outer layers of skin barriers prior to performing deeper treatments such as infusions, or peels. It creates a perfect canvas for your makeup application, and it gives the rest of your holistic skincare products a better chance to penetrate to the deeper layers of our skin.
Who is Dermaplaning good for?
Dermaplaning can be performed on many different skin types, and can benefit many different skin conditions. Dermaplaning is perfect for people with dull, dry or textured skin, oily skin types, sun damaged, peach fuzz, and fine lines. It’s also a great option when doing post-acne scar treatments as it helps to reduce the appearance of deeper acne scars and balance the complexion.
Who is Dermaplaning NOT good for?
Dermaplaning is not recommended for anyone with sun burnt skin or active rosacea flare up, active eczema or psoriasis, inflamed skin, sensitive and sensitized skin, or active pustule or cystic acne. We avoid this treatment for these skin types because it could potentially further irritate the condition, or spread the related bacteria to other parts of the face and neck.
The Procedure.
During a Dermaplaning facial you should not feel any pain – Our customised Dermaplaning facial always begins just like any other facial, with a really good cleanse, then exfoliation, and any extractions where necessary. You never want to dermaplane over unwashed dirty skin as we are opening up the pores and exposing it, making it easy for dirt to get inside and cause infection and/or acne breakouts. A pre-cleansing step is very important before performing dermaplaning. Next, your provider will take out a fresh, one-use only surgical blade and place it on the skin at a 45° angle. Applying gentle pressure, we are able to shave, or remove, the top layer of dead skin cells from the surface of your skin. After the dermaplaning procedure, your skin care provider will apply relative serums, and most importantly SUNSCREEN that can be worn for the rest of the day to ENSURE your fresh new skin is protected from any UV damage. This facial treatment can take anywhere from 20 minutes - up to an hour, depending on how complex the facial portion is and if you’re adding on things such as peels or infusions. Once you’re home at the end of your evening, you’ll want to wash your face with something gentle and apply your night cream. DO NOT exfoliate your skin the first few nights after dermaplaning. At this point also do not apply anything too active, or anything that your esthetician has not advised you to use directly after treatment. After a treatment such as this one, you will need to be EXTRA careful with sun exposure. That means wearing your sunscreen every-day. But you’re supposed to be wearing your sunscreen every day anyways! After a treatment such as this, your skin is more sensitive to UV light because it no longer has that hard dry layer that helps protect it. Therefore, making you more susceptible to DNA damage, signs of aging such as wrinkles and sunspots, as well as even skin cancer. Remember folks, the sun damage we see on our skin is not from that one terrible day at the beach where are you laid out too long and got burnt. It is from YEARS of accumulation over time out in the sun.
Commonly asked questions.
Q: Will my hairs grow back thicker after dermaplaning? A: No. The hairs on your face are referred to as vellus hair and is unable to turn into terminal hair, like the kind that grows on our head or legs. In other words, your wispy peach fuzz hair is not physically able to turn into thick stubbly facial hair.
Q: Is there downtime? A: No. There is no downtime to this facial, which contributes to why it’s such a great option. You could have it done on your lunch-break. I advise not to put a lot of makeup on it afterwards, and if you have to put makeup on we prefer it to be a clean brand, talc-free, such as the Jane Iredale Mineral Makeup line, but try to give it a day. Avoid hot tub’s, saunas or pools and going to the gym right after. The skin is very fresh and open so we don’t want any dirt, sweat, or bacteria to enter this way for minimum 24 hours or so. Afterwards your skin should just look fresh and glowing, with a slightly pink oxygenated hue.
Q: Does it hurt? A: No, Dermaplaning should not hurt at all as you’re not going passed the top layer of mostly dead cells and hair. It is like shaving with a very sharp surgical blade, therefore you should just feel a glide across your skin. If you do experience any pain during a procedure, please voice any concerns to your provider immediately.
Q: How often can I get Dermaplaning done? A: You can get this facial procedure done as often as every 3 to 4 weeks, so monthly. You can also get them bi-monthly, seasonally, annually, or just when you feel like you need a fresh start and a blank canvas. It’s the perfect treatment to do a few days before an event as it will give you a fresh, glowy look, and your makeup will go on so smooth afterwards!
If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out and book an appointment with one of our skin professionals at The Natural Art Of Skin Care. Call Kyndle at the front desk and she’d be more than happy to answer your questions over the phone or direct them accordingly.
See you at the Spa!
Rachel Lamont | Owner & Holistic Medical Esthetician
of The Natural Art of Skin Care