If the idea of dermaplaning or shaving your face sounds a bit strange to you, it is understandable. Isn’t shaving the face a manly thing? After all, what about the age-old myth that if you shave your face, your hair will grow back thicker and darker? I’ll answer that question and explain what I mean by dermaplaning and why it may be your key to gorgeous, glowing skin.
What is dermaplaning?
Dermatologists and plastic surgeons have practiced Dermaplaning for over 40 years; it can be found in many clinics today by a trained skincare specialist or esthetician. Dermaplaning is a physical/mechanical exfoliation that is extremely safe. It essentially shaves your face by removing the outermost layer of dead skin cells and vellus hair (better known as peach fuzz), leaving your skin smooth, supple, and vibrant. But it’s far more than just ‘shaving.’
How does dermaplaning work?
Your trained practitioner takes the special scalpel and carefully runs it over each part of the face in small strokes. Dermaplaning removes dead skin in a way that an at-home exfoliator simply cannot achieve. Before starting the treatment, the practitioner will remove makeup, cleanse, and tone the face to make sure it is free from as much bacteria and dirt as possible, and then begin the dermaplaning on dry skin. For best results, I recommend having dermaplaning once every 4-6 weeks.
What are the benefits of dermaplaning?
- Immediately rejuvenates the skin! Peach-fuzz and dead skin cells can cause the skin to look dull. The exfoliation process of dermaplaning boosts collagen production making it highly effective for minimizing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and acne scars while leaving the skin radiant and soft.
- Helps prevent acne from forming. By removing the top layer of dead skin cells, dermaplaning prevents oils, dead skin and debris from being trapped inside the follicle.
- Increases the absorption of skincare products, and helps procedures (peels, laser, enzyme treatments) work even better. If you suffer from acne, for example, the products you use to combat it will be able to work more effectively.
- Creates smooth, glowing skin. Dermaplaning makes your skin the perfect canvas for makeup application! You end up using less complexion products like foundation, concealer and powder because they work more effectively on smooth, exfoliated skin. Amazing! And the great thing is there is no downtime, no pain, and no irritation, so it’s perfect for any special occasion. It sounds like a dream treatment, right?
Does shaving really make your hair grow back thicker and darker?
No, this is physiologically impossible. Dermaplaning, waxing, tweezing, or any other depilatory form of hair removal, cannot alter the type of hair grown in any given area. So, if this has been putting you off, rest assured you will not be looking like Chewbacca a few weeks down the road. I have personally had dermaplaning done for several years now and can vouch for this.
Dermaplaning at home vs. with a licensed professional/clinic?
Though there are tools that promise effective at-home dermaplaning, a razor (or at home tool) is not the same as a dermaplaning scalpel used in a professional setting. Plus, there is no substitute for a licensed professional with years of dermaplaning training and knowledge of different skin conditions! Firstly, as a medically trained practitioner, I have years of experience using a surgical blade and can, therefore, safely perform the treatment that ensures results. Trying it at home, having never used such a sharp tool is a bad idea and can lead to damaging your skin and a lot of pain – no thanks! Secondly, you won’t get the same results at home using a razor, and you might experience nicks, stubble, or ingrown hairs.
Schedule your complimentary consultation:
Now that I have addressed all the ins/outs and many benefits of dermaplaning, I’m sure you are anxious to see how dermaplaning can improve your skin! I hope to see you very soon. I am in the office M-F 8-4:30, and I also offer free consultations to answer any further questions.
To healthy, happy skin,
Ashley Gardewine, LE, Laser Technician