Is It Safe to Dermaplane at Home: Steps, Aftercare, and Risks

Many people want youthful, glowing skin that lasts forever. However, in reality, we age, and our skin begins to reflect this aging process. There are many procedures available to help rejuvenate the skin ranging from simple, safe, noninvasive ones to invasive options. Dermaplaning is a generally safe procedure to help improve the appearance of the skin. Read on to learn the benefits of dermaplaning and if at-home treatments are safe and beneficial.

What is dermaplaning?

Dermaplaning is a form of exfoliation that removes dead skin cells, debris, and vellus hairs (peach fuzz). However, instead of using traditional acids or beads, the medical professional uses a sterile blade. Dermaplaning gives you a brighter, smoother complexion and a temporary glow. The results are not permanent and require periodic maintenance treatments. Also, the results are subtle, so do not be disappointed if they are not the same as more invasive treatments.

Can I perform dermaplaning at home?

There are at-home dermaplaning kits available. At-home treatments are cheaper and more convenient for many people. However, the outcomes will not be the same. Professional treatments will always yield superior results. Treatments performed at home also carry a higher risk of serious complications because laypeople have not received the same training as professionals and are not licensed. Homes are also not sterile environments like professional medical offices are. At-home treatments have a higher risk of cuts, infections, and permanent scarring.

Benefits of dermaplaning

By removing dead skin cells, debris, and vellus hairs with dermaplaning, you can improve the appearance of your skin. The benefits of dermaplaning are mostly anecdotal and subtle and require continuous maintenance treatments. The extent of the results is also dependent on the person who performs it.

The benefits of dermaplaning include:

• Smoother skin
• Brighter, glowing skin
• Scar fading
• Improved fine lines and wrinkles
• Easier application of makeup
• Better absorption of anti-aging product

Steps involved in dermaplaning

It is important to follow the appropriate steps when dermaplaning:

1. Always start with clean, dry skin.
2. During the procedure, the medical professional holds the skin taut while scraping a sterile blade across the skin at a 45-degree angle.
3. The medical professional uses short, gentle strokes to avoid harming the skin.
4. The procedure usually takes less than 1 hour.
5. After completion, they apply moisturizer and sunscreen to the face.

Aftercare for dermaplaning

There is very little aftercare required or downtime experienced from dermaplaning. It is crucial to keep your skin moisturized with gentle moisturizing creams. Avoid using products with dyes, fragrances, or harsh ingredients. Sun protection is vital to preventing complications, so use sunscreen religiously and avoid sun exposure. You may apply makeup after 24–48 hours. Do not get any other procedures, such as peels or hair removal, for two weeks after dermaplaning to give your skin a chance to heal. You may get dermaplaning every month to maintain your results.

Risks of dermaplaning

Professional dermaplaning is generally considered safe and carries a low risk of complications. Many experience temporary redness, soreness, or irritation for a couple of days after the procedure. Some people may experience whiteheads. Proper sun protection is essential to preventing sunburns and sun damage, leading to skin cancers and wrinkles.

At-home treatments performed by inexperienced and untrained people have a higher risk of complications, some of which may be permanent. These include cuts, pain, infection, scarring, and changes in the pigment of your skin. If you have decided on doing dermaplaning at home, get properly trained. If you encounter a complication, see your dermatologist immediately.

Does dermaplaning cause acne?

Dermaplaning may help acne because it exfoliates bacteria and dead skin cells that cause acne. However, in some patients, acne breakouts can occur after dermaplaning, especially in those prone to acne. These breakouts likely result from irritation or possibly products used during the procedure. Dermaplaning may also spread bacteria, which can cause breakouts or infections. If you have active acne, avoid dermaplaning until it is under control because it could worsen your breakouts.

Who should not do dermaplaning?

Before starting any new treatments, always discuss them with your dermatologist first to determine if they are right for you. Not every procedure is best for everyone. While dermaplaning is safe for most people, some should avoid it.

You may not be able to undergo dermaplaning if you have any of these issues:

• Open areas or cuts
• Active acne, infections, or rosacea
• Certain skin conditions, like eczema or psoriasis
• Allergies to metal
• Sunburn
• Blood thinners or bleeding disorders
• Immunosuppression due to medical conditions or medications

Alternatives to dermaplaning

If you want to exfoliate and rejuvenate your skin but do not like the idea of a blade scraped across your skin, there are other treatment options available. These options will give equal or better results than dermaplaning. However, some may be pricier. It is best to discuss your options with your dermatologist first to see which will give you the best results. These options include microdermabrasion, chemical peels, laser peels, resurfacing, and topical products like glycolic acid or retinoids.

Dermaplaning is a relatively quick procedure with few complications when performed by licensed medical professionals. At-home kits are available but do not deliver the same results as professional treatments, and they carry higher risks. Always discuss new procedures with your dermatologist before starting them.