Dermaplaning
Dermaplaning is a manual exfoliation procedure that uses a sterile surgical scalpel to remove the outermost layer of dead skin cells and fine vellus hair from the face. It is a surface treatment with no downtime and is appropriate as a standalone service or in preparation for other procedures.
What dermaplaning is
Dermaplaning is a physical exfoliation technique performed by a trained provider using a sterile, single-use surgical scalpel held at a 45-degree angle against the skin. The blade is drawn across the skin surface to remove accumulated dead skin cells (stratum corneum) and fine vellus hair (often called peach fuzz). It does not cut hair follicles or affect terminal hair growth. It is a surface-only treatment that does not penetrate the dermis.
What dermaplaning can address
Dermaplaning improves skin texture and smoothness, removes vellus hair that can trap makeup and product residue, enhances the penetration of topical skincare products, and gives the skin a brighter, more even appearance. It can also be used to prepare the skin surface before chemical peels or other procedures for more uniform product contact.
Who may be a candidate
Adults with dull, uneven, or rough skin texture, or those who want a no-downtime surface treatment. Dermaplaning is particularly well-tolerated by patients who cannot undergo chemical exfoliation due to pregnancy, sensitivity to acids, or skin type considerations. It is appropriate for most skin tones and types when performed correctly.
Who should avoid or delay treatment
Dermaplaning is not appropriate for patients with active acne breakouts or cystic acne in the treatment area (the blade can spread bacteria and worsen breakouts), active rosacea flare, eczema or psoriasis flare in the treatment area, open skin, sunburn, or known sensitivity to the procedure. Patients on isotretinoin should complete their course and the required washout period before treatment. Patients with significant amounts of coarse or terminal facial hair will not see the same benefit from this procedure.
What to expect during a session
The skin is cleansed and dried. The provider uses a sterile scalpel with controlled, light strokes to exfoliate the face in sections. No anesthetic is needed. Most patients experience a mild scraping sensation with no significant discomfort. Sessions typically take 20 to 30 minutes. The skin often appears immediately brighter and feels smoother following treatment.
Recovery and downtime
There is minimal to no downtime. Some patients experience mild temporary redness for an hour or two after treatment. Avoid direct sun exposure for 48 hours and apply SPF 30 or higher daily after treatment, as freshly exfoliated skin is more susceptible to UV damage. Avoid applying active ingredients (retinoids, strong acids) for 24 to 48 hours to avoid irritation on freshly treated skin.
Risks and side effects
Common: very mild temporary redness or sensitivity immediately after treatment. Less common: minor irritation or sensitivity if active topicals are applied too soon after treatment, or if the skin is overexfoliated with other procedures done in close proximity. Rare: superficial nick from the blade if the skin is not held taut; in trained hands this is uncommon. Dermaplaning does not cause vellus hair to grow back coarser — vellus hair follicles are not altered by the procedure.
Alternatives
Alternatives for surface exfoliation include chemical peels (AHA/BHA acids), enzyme treatments, physical microdermabrasion, and retinoid home protocols. Chemical exfoliation may offer additional benefit for pigmentation and texture beyond what dermaplaning alone addresses. Many patients combine dermaplaning with a mild chemical peel for enhanced results.
How long results last
The immediate smoothing effect typically lasts two to four weeks, corresponding to the skin's natural cell turnover cycle. Vellus hair that was removed will begin to grow back in two to four weeks as well. Most patients schedule dermaplaning every four to six weeks. Results vary by individual skin type and rate of cell turnover.
When to contact us
Contact us if you experience unexpected irritation, prolonged redness, or a breakout in the days after treatment that concerns you. We can advise on your skincare routine during recovery and recommend when it is appropriate to restart active ingredients.
Clinical notice
Information on this page is educational and does not replace an in-person consultation. Treatments are recommended only after reviewing medical history, anatomy, goals, and clinical suitability. Results vary. Appropriate candidates are determined at the time of consultation.
If you experience severe swelling, vision changes, difficulty breathing, signs of vascular compromise, or another urgent symptom after treatment, seek emergency care immediately.
Ready to schedule a consultation?
Schedule a Consultation