Quick answer: Dermaplaning is a gentle exfoliating treatment where a trained professional uses a sterile blade to remove dead skin cells and fine facial hair (peach fuzz). Skin looks brighter and feels smoother right away, makeup goes on more evenly, and skincare absorbs better. It takes about 30 minutes, has no downtime, and results last about three to four weeks. |
Dermaplaning is one of the simplest skin treatments available, and one of the most popular, because the results are visible as you walk out. It’s also surrounded by myths, mostly about hair growing back thicker. This guide explains what really happens, who it suits and how to get the most from it.
How dermaplaning works
Your skin constantly sheds dead cells, but some stay stuck on the surface, making skin look dull and feel rough. Fine, light facial hairs, called vellus hair, also trap oil and dirt and catch makeup.
During dermaplaning, your provider:
- Cleanses and fully dries your skin.
- Holds the skin taut with one hand.
- Uses a sterile, single-use surgical blade at a low angle to make short, light strokes across the face.
- Finishes with a soothing serum, moisturizer and sunscreen.
Most people describe the feeling as a light scraping, similar to shaving, with no pain.
Benefits of dermaplaning
- Instant glow. Removing dead skin reveals brighter skin immediately.
- Smoother texture. Skin feels noticeably softer to the touch.
- Better makeup. Foundation glides on without catching on peach fuzz or dry patches.
- Better product absorption. Serums and moisturizers can reach the skin more easily.
- A head start for other treatments. Peels and facials often work more evenly on freshly dermaplaned skin.
- No downtime. You can return to your day straight away.
Does hair grow back thicker after dermaplaning?
No. This is the most common myth, and it’s not true. Dermaplaning cuts vellus hair at the surface. It doesn’t change the hair follicle, so the hair grows back the same color, texture and thickness as before. Regrowth can feel slightly blunt at first because the hair was cut straight across, but it’s still the same fine hair.
If you have darker, coarser facial hair you’d like to reduce long term, dermaplaning won’t help with that. Options like Forever Bare BBL hair removal or facial waxing are better suited.
Dermaplaning vs dermabrasion vs at-home shaving
Treatment | What it uses | How deep | Downtime |
Dermaplaning | A sterile blade, by a professional | Surface dead skin and peach fuzz | None |
Dermabrasion | A rotating abrasive tool, by a physician | Deeper layers, for scars and wrinkles | 1 to 2 weeks |
At-home face razor | A small cosmetic razor | Mostly hair, little exfoliation | None, but higher risk of nicks and irritation |
At-home tools have become popular. They can remove peach fuzz, but a professional treatment exfoliates more evenly and safely, especially around the nose, brows and jawline, and is done on properly prepared skin.
Who is dermaplaning good for?
Dermaplaning suits most skin types, and it’s especially helpful if you have:
- Dull or dry skin.
- Rough or uneven texture.
- Visible peach fuzz that catches makeup.
- Sensitive skin that doesn’t tolerate stronger exfoliating acids. It’s a physical exfoliation, so no chemicals are involved.
Because no chemicals or medicines are used, dermaplaning is often chosen during pregnancy when stronger treatments are off the table. Check with your doctor first if you have any concerns.
Who should skip it or wait
- Active acne breakouts, especially inflamed or cystic acne. The blade can spread bacteria and irritate breakouts. See our acne treatment options
- Active rosacea flare, eczema or psoriasis on the face.
- Cold sores, open cuts or sunburn.
- Recent isotretinoin (Accutane) use. Most providers ask you to wait six months.
- Recent retinoid use. Pause prescription retinoids for several days before treatment.
How often should you get dermaplaning?
Every three to four weeks is ideal for most people. That matches your skin’s natural renewal cycle. Going more often can irritate the skin barrier.
Dermaplaning with other treatments
Dermaplaning is often the first step in a combination treatment:
- Dermaplaning plus chemical peel: the peel solution spreads and penetrates more evenly on freshly exfoliated skin. See what to expect after a chemical peel.
- Dermaplaning plus facial: hydrating or treatment masks absorb better.
- Before an event: many clients book it 2 to 3 days before a wedding or photos so makeup sits flawlessly.
Aftercare
- Wear SPF 30 or higher every day. Freshly exfoliated skin is more sensitive to the sun.
- Skip exfoliants, scrubs and retinoids for 2 to 3 days.
- Use gentle, hydrating products.
- Avoid saunas, swimming pools and heavy sweating for 24 hours.
Dermaplaning in Royal Oak
At Well Labs+ Medspa Royal Oak, dermaplaning is performed by licensed skincare professionals and can be booked on its own or as part of a facial. We’re at 26454 Woodward Ave, Suite 200, a few minutes from Birmingham, Clawson and Huntington Woods.
[Provider note: add whether dermaplaning is offered as a standalone, an add-on to facials or peels, or both, and one sentence from your esthetician on the result clients comment on first.]
Explore our dermaplaning and facials in Royal Oak, or book your appointment.
Frequently asked questions
Does dermaplaning hurt?
No. It feels like a light scraping. There’s no pain or downtime.
How long do dermaplaning results last?
About three to four weeks, until dead skin builds up and fine hair grows back.
Can I wear makeup after dermaplaning?
Most people can wear makeup the same or next day. Many clients notice it looks smoother than usual.
Is dermaplaning safe for sensitive skin?
Usually, yes, as long as you don’t have an active flare of rosacea, eczema or acne. Your provider will check your skin first.
Can I dermaplane at home instead?
You can remove peach fuzz at home, but professional dermaplaning is more thorough, more even and done with a sterile blade on properly prepared skin, which lowers the risk of nicks and irritation.
