Skin Treatment Series: Dermaplaning
Good skincare is not just finding the right product and relying solely on its efficacy. To achieve and maintain healthy and glowing skin, it is important to take a holistic, 360-approach. Both internally as well as externally. It is also highly recommended to mix and match your skincare protocol with the appropriate medical skin treatment or service! Let’s talk about Dermaplaning.
Quick Overview: What is Dermaplaning & Is It For Me?
Dermaplaning is a skin rejuvenation treatment that helps remove both dead skin and vellus hair from your skin, helping to give you a smoother, brighter and more radiant look. A certified healthcare provider uses a special instrument to shave away the uppermost layers of your skin.
Dermaplaning can help reduce the appearance of acne scars or other skin imperfections by revealing newer, undamaged skin. It can make your skin look younger; though, it doesn’t stop the ageing process. Some people also get dermaplaning for hair removal. This is only a temporary solution because your hair will grow back. Most people get the procedure on their face, but you can do it anywhere on your body. Generally, it is another effective method of exfoliation, helping to improve skin texture, minimizes fine lines, and helps stimulate collagen production making it a favourable, non-invasive skincare treatment.
The Benefits of Dermaplaning
- It is a safe, effective, and non-invasive treatment!
- No downtime (but please note, it is best to give your skin a rest from things such as makeup for 3 days and any ingredients such as retinols and even vitamin C for 5 days).
- Helps to create a brighter complexion
- Improves skin texture
- Suitable and safe for all skintypes
- And!!! It often helps increase the efficacy of your skincare products by allowing them to penetrate the skin better!
Dermaplaning vs. Dermabrasion vs. Microdermabrasion
Dermaplaning, dermabrasion and microdermabrasion are all medical (clinical) skin resurfacing procedures. Each procedure uses different tools and removes different layers and quantities of skin. Dermaplaning uses a scalpel (knife) or razor to remove skin. Dermabrasion is a surgical procedure. Microdermabrasion is a nonsurgical procedure that uses an exfoliating blade to ‘sand’ away your skin to smooth it and remove the appearance of scars.
Is Dermaplaning for Me?
You may consider a dermaplaning treatment if you have skin concerns including:
- Uneven skin tone
- Dull or dry skin
- Peach fuzz on your face (vellus hair)
- Damaged skin from external factors such as sun, pollution, A/C, and blue light use
- Fine lines, premature ageing
- Mild acne scarring
When to be Cautious
Some people with preexisting skin concerns should not have dermaplaning. Before getting this procedure, it is best to consult your healthcare provider if you have any of the following:
- Moderate to severe acne / acne breakouts
- Cold sores / herpes zoster
- Eczema or psoriasis
- Protruding skin tags or skin growths
- Any skin irritations
What Are the Risks of Dermaplaning?
Dermaplaning is generally considered a safe non-invasive skin treatment, however, it does carry the following risks:
- Post treatment: redness, mild irritation or swelling (depending on skin sensitivity).
- Infection – if post-treatment proper protocol is not followed (very rare).
- Skin discolouration (unlikely, however, always best to consult with a health care provider regarding this).
*Note: Dermaplaning should be done at a reputable clinic under the care of a Dermatologist, certified skin practitioner, or nurse. It is recommended to repeat the treatment once a month, or every other month until the skin is in a healthier and more balanced state.