Everything You Want to Know About Dermaplaning

Dermaplaning is an aesthetic technique that strips away the outermost layers of skin. The goal of the treatment is to reduce fine lines and improve the appearance of deeper acne scars, leaving the skin’s surface looking smoother.

Dermaplaning: Fast facts

• Dermaplaning is a cosmetic procedure that removes the top layers of your skin. The procedure aims to remove fine wrinkles and deep acne scarring, as well as make the skin’s surface look smooth.
• Dermaplaning is safe for most people, with little risk of side effects when it’s performed by a certified dermatologist.
• This procedure doesn’t require any downtime for recovery, which makes it extremely convenient. The most difficult part may be finding a trained provider who can administer this treatment.
• Dermaplaning isn’t covered by insurance, and sessions can run between $150 and $250 each.
• Dermatologists say this treatment is effective for people looking to make their skin appear more youthful, smooth, and bright, but results typically only last three weeks.

What’s dermaplaning?

Dermaplaning is a facial treatment that employs an exfoliating blade to shave away dead skin cells and fine hairs from the face. It’s also referred to as microplaning or blading.

The intent of dermaplaning is to create a smooth, refreshed, and glowing complexion. The treatment claims to minimize the look of deep acne scarring and uneven indentations, and it’s commonly used to remove “peach fuzz,” the short, soft hairs on the face.

Dermaplaning can be suitable for many skin types and for people experiencing:

• acne scars
• dull complexion
• dry skin
• sun-damaged skin
• fine lines

Cost

Dermaplaning isn’t typically covered by insurance, and pricing is charged per session.

Session fees vary based on geographic location and the practitioner you choose. Ask for a price estimate before scheduling, but expect to pay up to around $250 for a single 30-minute dermaplaning visit.

Providers may recommend pairing a chemical peel with dermaplaning. Immediately after dermaplaning, the skin can absorb a peel more deeply than usual, enhancing its effects. A peel can add roughly $150 to $300 to the total cost.

There’s minimal or no downtime following dermaplaning. You typically won’t need to miss work and can often fit the treatment into a short break during the day.

How it works

The instrument used in dermaplaning resembles a razor you might use on your body.

The method is similar to shaving: holding a sterile blade at about a 45-degree angle and gliding it gently across the skin removes dead cells, scarred tissue, and other surface debris that can create an uneven appearance.

Daily exposure to pollutants, irritants, and ultraviolet light can dull the outer skin layer and contribute to an aged look. Dermaplaning eliminates those damaged cells so that fresher skin is visible.

Evidence on dermaplaning’s effectiveness is largely anecdotal. Results vary between individuals, and it’s difficult to measure success objectively.

The procedure

Dermaplaning is generally painless. Some people describe a light tingling sensation during the session.

You’ll recline in a clean, comfortable setting for the treatment. Sedation options may be discussed, which can include a topical numbing spray or local anesthetic sometimes combined with an oral sedative; general anesthesia is seldom used.

Once you’re comfortable, the clinician will use either an electronic or manual dermaplaning device, holding the blade at a 45-degree angle and sweeping it across the skin. The treatment typically lasts 20 to 30 minutes as the provider carefully exfoliates the face.

Afterward, the provider will calm the skin with a soothing agent such as aloe and will apply sunscreen to protect the newly exposed skin.

Risks and side effects

Dermaplaning carries a relatively low risk profile. Common side effects include mild facial redness for a few hours post-treatment. Some patients develop whiteheads in the day or two following dermaplaning.

Though uncommon, infection and scarring can occur. If scarring develops, a physician may treat the scar tissue with steroid injections to soften it.

Another potential issue is uneven skin pigmentation in the treated area, which often fades or resolves over time.

What to expect

No recovery period is typically required after dermaplaning. You might notice redness or a scraped feeling for two to three days after the procedure.

The skin often appears brighter right away, but it can take several days to see the full effect. As any redness clears, results become more noticeable.

Results from dermaplaning are not permanent. The treatment is said to remove about three weeks’ worth of dead skin buildup. After three to four weeks, the effect will diminish.

Following dermaplaning, it’s important to protect your skin from the sun. UV exposure can undo treatment benefits or cause pigmentation changes on newly exposed skin. In the weeks after dermaplaning, apply sunscreen whenever you go outside.

Before and after pictures

Here’s an example of one person’s results with dermaplaning treatments:

Preparing for dermaplaning

Before your appointment, discuss your medical background, skin type, and complexion with the provider, along with the outcomes you hope to achieve.

If you’re having an active acne flare, you may be asked to postpone the treatment to avoid further irritation or skin damage.

Avoid direct sun exposure for about a week before your session, since sunburned or compromised skin can make the treatment more uncomfortable and less safe.

Is it safe to do at home?

Dermaplaning tools are available for home use, and some people choose to perform the procedure themselves. However, DIY dermaplaning may not produce the same results and carries additional risks.

Anecdotally, the likelihood of infection, complications, and pain is higher when dermaplaning is done without professional supervision.

Home devices marketed for dermaplaning might be called razors, exfoliators, beauty wands, or exfoliation systems. Any of these can be used for self-treatment.

Dermaplaning vs. microdermabrasion

Both dermaplaning and microdermabrasion are exfoliation treatments intended to improve skin texture.

Dermaplaning removes dead skin with a blade’s edge, while microdermabrasion abrades the surface, either by blasting fine particles at the skin or by using a specialized tool to physically sand away cells.

Both procedures share similarities in:

• results
• safety
• possible side effects and complications
• out-of-pocket costs

Microdermabrasion usually involves multiple sessions, and its effects can last several months.

If you’re choosing between these approaches, consult a dermatologist who can recommend the best option based on your desired outcome.

How to find a provider

The American Society of Plastic Surgeons provides a searchable directory for board-certified plastic surgeons who offer dermaplaning.

You can also contact your dermatologist’s office to ask whether they provide dermaplaning, or to request a referral if they don’t.