Dermaplaning is going viral on social media—but unfortunately many times it’s a DIY approach and this can go horribly wrong. “Real” dermaplaning is only available at clinics where skin care experts have the knowledge, training, experience, and tools to give you gorgeous and safe results. That’s exactly what is offered at Palo Alto Laser and Skin Care, thanks to the supervision and training of Zuzana Likar. Dermaplaning is a kind of physical exfoliation that uses a specialized blade (which looks like a scalpel) to shave off the top layer of skin on the face. This will include removal of peach fuzz, which is what makes it so much more effective than other forms of exfoliation. In fact, save for waxing the face, dermaplaning is the only exfoliating method that will remove peach fuzz along with dirt, debris, and the topmost layer of skin.
According to a recent article in Harper’s Bazaar, removing the face’s vellus hairs can be a key part in your monthly beauty routine. Some people have more visible hairs than others, and having baby-smooth skin can help topicals like medical-grade skin care products do a better job. As an added bonus, those who wear makeup often find their products go on smoother with routine dermaplaning. Even though dermaplaning requires running a sharp blade across the face, it’s actually a very safe and fast procedure when performed by a professional. However, those who don’t know what they are doing or who use low-quality tools can cause injuries to the skin. “It’s best to go to the pros,” urges the article.
Who’s a Fit for Dermaplaning?
Most people are good candidates for dermaplaning. The majority of clients are women, since men will require more than dermaplaning for facial hair removal. However, anyone with psoriasis, rosacea, eczema, or very sensitive skin may want to be careful with dermaplaning. It can exacerbate these conditions. A consultation will help to determine if dermaplaning may be safe and effective for you. How often you dermaplane will also play a role in whether it’s right for you. Anywhere from once per month to once per week may be suitable for you, but do not dermplane more than once per week. Otherwise, the top layer of skin will not have the necessary time to rejuvenate and heal.
If you’re thinking about dermaplaning, a little preparation can help give you the best results. You might want to avoid certain acids (lactic, glycolic, and salicylic), retinoids, and benzoyl peroxide one week before your treatment. Talk to your prescribing dermatologist if you are using prescription topicals. You may be able to get matched with a different option that isn’t as aggressive so that both medical-grade Rx’s and dermaplaning can fit into your skin routine. If you have a cold sore, active (open lesion) acne, or certain infections like staph impetigo, you will probably be asked to wait until it clears up before being approved for dermaplaning.
Post-Treatment Care
After dermaplaning, keep hydrated (your skin needs it) and avoid unnecessary sun exposure. Anytime you exfoliate the skin, it is immediately more vulnerable and susceptible to UV damage. The article urges, “It is also very important to avoid excessive heat, intense workouts, steam rooms, and saunas for 48 to 72 hours after treatment to avoid the risk of hyperpigmentation.” Dermaplaning might seem and feel quick and easy, but it’s actually a very effective treatment that needs a little TLC.
Starting a dermaplaning routine is also a great time to upgrade your moisturizer approach. Try a medical-grade product with a thick emollient that can serve as a skin sealant. This will keep water on the skin to amp up hydration. Once dermaplaning has removed that top layer of skin, it needs added protection. A moisturizer with peptides, or a peptide serum, can help calm skin down, too. We can recommend a moisturizer and other products for you based on your skin type and goals during your dermaplaning appointment.
Starting Dermaplaning
Not only does dermaplaning give you smooth skin and a brighter complexion, routine treatments continually help the penetration of your products’ active ingredients—offering cumulative benefits. If you’re ready to try dermaplaning, call Palo Alto Laser and Skin Care today or fill out the online contact form.