April 10, 2020Dermaplaning – Truths & Myths
by Stephanie Milner

Dermaplaning: Truths & Myths

What is it:

Dermaplaning is the most precise exfoliation and facial hair removal method on the market right now. Using controlled strokes of a medical instrument, this quick and painless procedure gently lifts dead skin cells and baby fine vellus hair (“peach fuzz”) leaving your skin soft and smooth. Its like a fancy word for shaving, except much more meticulous and no razor burn! 

It’s performed using a sterile surgical scalpel to gently shave off soft peach fuzz while at the same time performing a surface exfoliation of the skin. So its great if your skin’s  feeling dull and needs to be revitalized!

Who is it good for:

The procedure also improves the absorption of products by removing any barriers (such as dead skin and tiny hairs), heightening their efficacy and creates the perfect canvas for makeup application. By having this soft and perfectly smooth surface, foundation and powder to sit matte on the skin, eliminating a peach-fuzz shadow in the light. For this reason, it’s especially popular with actresses, brides, models, and those on camera for any special event.

Who should avoid it:

Dermaplaning however, is not good for certain skin conditions such as active acne, severe rosacea and sensitive dry skin. Because the blade is gliding along the surface of the skin, it can irritate and spread acne bacteria. Its always recommended to see your Esthetician to determine whether this treatment is best for you, and which concerns have to be treated first.

Why we love it:

I especially love Dermaplaning for pregnant clients because of their limited treatment options available during pregnancy. Its one of the few medical-grade treatments they can get done without it being a contraindication. They still get that deep exfoliation and brightening factor without causing any harm to themselves during that sensitive time. It just adds to their “pregnancy glow”! 

Does it hurt?

Surprising to some, this treatment is quite comfortable and relaxing. Most patients even fall asleep during this facial! I’ve had a lot of questions asking if the procedure hurts— it doesn’t. However, when the treatment is finished, its normal to have a little sensitivity (due to the exfoliating factor) and feel your skincare products more than usual because of the removal of those baby hairs and dead skin. Similar to the sensation when you have freshly shaved or waxed legs and your clothing feelings kinda weird up against your skin at first. 

That sensation can take some getting used to in the first couple days, which is why I always recommend staying away from using any active products such as acids, retinols, and any type of exfoliation for a few days following your Dermaplaning facial.

Will my hair grow back thicker?

NO! Another common question I get asked is “will the facial hair will grow back thicker or darker”. The answer is no, simple biology is the answer to this… no hair ever grows back thicker or darker when it’s shaved off. It can only feel that way because the tips are lobbed off at the surface so rather than a nice soft point that they naturally grow in with, you now have a blunt tip to the hair shaft so it feels thicker. The blunt tip to the hair shaft makes it appear darker when it’s impossible for shaving to have had an effect on the changing of hair colour. 

As your peach fuzz grows back in, it will feel a little pokey or spikey at first, some areas such as side burns it’s most noticeable. But not like on your legs where the hair shafts are much thicker. The nice thing about villus hair (peach fuzz) is that your hair will grow back exactly the same as it was before (soft and fine) within about 4-6 weeks post procedure. 

How long does it last?

You may notice regrowth as early as 2 weeks, but It’s best to book recurring treatments at least 4-6 weeks apart to allow the hairs to fully grow in. Its much easier to remove the hairs at that point and causes less irritation to the skin. 

Can I pair Dermaplaning with other facials?

Dermaplaning is a nice addition to certain facial treatments. This of course depends on your skin condition and level of resiliency. Its always best to start with Dermaplaning on its own, then try adding it on with other treatments next time. We offer combo treatments for Dermaplaning with Hydrafacial, Chemical peels, Vitamin A Infusion & Glo & Go’s Laser Facials. 

Before & After Photos: