Dermaplaning is a professional exfoliating treatment that uses a sterile blade to gently remove surface dead skin cells and fine vellus hair, often called peach fuzz. It can leave the skin feeling smoother and looking refreshed, with a more even surface for makeup application.
Your provider assesses your skin and discusses your goals before treatment. Dermaplaning does not involve injections and is not a treatment for deep wrinkles, significant scarring, or the underlying causes of acne. Its effects are temporary, and results vary.
What dermaplaning can address
- Surface buildup — exfoliates dead skin cells that can contribute to a dull appearance
- Fine facial hair — removes peach fuzz temporarily
- Uneven surface texture — creates a smoother-feeling skin surface and may help makeup apply more evenly
After cleansing, your provider holds the skin taut and carefully glides a sterile blade across the surface at a shallow angle. You may notice a light scraping sensation. The treatment is followed by appropriate skincare based on your skin’s needs.
Frequently asked questions
Does facial hair grow back thicker or darker?
No. Dermaplaning removes hair at the skin’s surface without changing the hair follicle. It does not change the thickness, color, or rate of hair growth. Fine facial hair returns as part of its normal growth cycle.
Who is a good candidate?
Dermaplaning may suit people seeking surface exfoliation and removal of fine facial hair. It may not be appropriate with active acne, cold sores, skin infections, open wounds, sunburn, or an eczema or rosacea flare. Tell your provider about sensitive skin, medications, recent procedures, and any history of abnormal scarring so suitability can be assessed.
What are the possible risks and side effects?
Temporary redness, sensitivity, irritation, and small nicks can occur. Infection, pigment changes, and scarring are possible. Your provider will discuss these risks and assess your skin before treatment.
How should I prepare before treatment?
Arrive with clean skin and avoid tanning or sunburn. Discuss retinoids, exfoliating acids, scrubs, recent waxing, and other skin treatments with your provider beforehand; you may need to pause irritating products. Do not stop prescribed skincare or other medicines without your clinician’s guidance.
What does aftercare involve?
Use a gentle cleanser, moisturizer, and broad-spectrum sunscreen. Avoid rubbing, picking, scrubs, exfoliating acids, and retinoids until your provider advises they can be resumed and any sensitivity has resolved. Protect your skin from direct sun and follow the instructions provided for your skin type.
When will I see results and how often can I have treatment?
Skin may feel smoother immediately, although temporary redness or sensitivity can occur. Surface skin cells and fine hair naturally return, so results are not permanent. Treatments are often spaced about four weeks apart; your provider will recommend timing based on your skin and recovery.
Can dermaplaning be combined with other treatments?
Your provider can discuss whether other skin treatments are appropriate and how to space them safely. Combining exfoliation with microneedling or other procedures too closely can increase irritation, so do not assume they should be performed on the same day.