This post was written by Josie Trier, aesthetician, PPG – Dermatology, MD SkinCare.
Dermaplaning is a quick and simple service MD SkinCare offers for patients who want their skin’s surface to appear smooth and radiant. The truth is, our skin is constantly being exposed to environmental stressors, whether those be free radicals, toxins, UV rays or fluorescent lighting. The harsh combination of these contributions can cause your skin to become dull and appear aged. We can help! Dermaplaning helps diminish fine lines, post inflammatory hyperpigmentation and sun damage.
Is it for me?
If you find yourself struggling with acne scars, dull skin, sun damage, fine lines, dry skin or if you simply feel like your skin needs a bit of a “refresher,” at the start of the new season, dermaplaning is a great option.
What to expect
The dermaplaning process is completely painless and can be done in as little as 30 minutes. The exfoliating treatment removes the top layer of dead skin, as well as vellus hair or “peach fuzz” on the face, all by means of a scalpel.
The process begins with a gentle cleanse of the face followed by degreasing the face of excess lipids to provide proper glide for the blade. After the service, we apply a morning antioxidant to protect against environmental stressors, a moisturizer, and, of course no skin care regimen would be complete without some sunscreen. There is no downtime or recovery for this treatment.
Added benefit
This exfoliation also aids in product penetration. After a dermaplaning service is a great time to apply serums and other skin products you use at home, as they will be absorbed much easier, which not only increases efficacy of the product but also provides a greater benefit to your skin.
Dermaplaning can be done as a lone service or it can be combined with other treatments. We find patients prefer to have dermaplaning done prior to a chemical peel or Hydrafacial to provide a deeper exfoliation and greater benefit.
Risks
While the risks and side effects for dermaplaning are little to none, there are some to note. For some, the face may have slight erythema, otherwise known as superficial redness caused by irritation. Others might develop whiteheads. Infection and scarring are extremely rare after dermaplaning.
If you have an active acne flare, or have been exposed to the sun for a long period of time in recent days, you may be ineligible for dermaplaning, since completing the service can further cause irritation or potentially spread infection.
