Dermaplaning is one of those hella hyped skin treatments that’s all over TikTok. But unlike other trendy treatments — we’re looking at you DIY injectables — this one might be legit. Here’s a deep dive into the benefits and risks of dermaplaning, plus what you can expect from a sesh.

What’s a dermaplaning facial?

Dermaplaning (aka blading or microplaning) is a cosmetic skin treatment that involves using a small, sharp blade to exfoliate your skin. It helps slough off dead skin cells, debris, and peach fuzz from your face. It may help with:

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Dermaplaning is sort of similar to shaving. But instead of simply removing hair, it also removes the very top layer of your skin. Your skin cells go through this renewal process naturally, but dermaplaning can help speed up the change.

A professional who does dermaplaning will slowly scrape a sterile blade or razor across your skin, holding it at a 45-degree angle. This helps remove any unwanted hair, dead skin cells, and other debris to reveal a newer layer of skin. This can give your face a more even tone, smoother texture, and a brighter glow.

Dermaplaning results can vary from person to person, but some potential perks include:

  • removing tiny hairs for a smooth, even texture
  • reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
  • giving your skin a dewy glow
  • reducing the appearance of acne scars or sun damage

FYI: Keep in mind that while it seems promising, there’s no concrete research yet to prove whether or not dermaplaning is truly effective.

Ready to get your glow on? Here’s what to expect before, during, and after a dermaplaning treatment.

How to prep for your session

Have a chat with your provider before your dermaplaning treatment. You should go over your skin type, medical history, and the results you’re looking to achieve.

Your provider will make sure that dermaplaning is the right service for you and will probably recommend that you come to your appointment without wearing any makeup. They might ask you to reschedule if you have an acne flare-up or sunburn to avoid stressing out your skin.

What happens during your appointment

First, your provider will thoroughly cleanse your face to make sure your skin is ready to go. Next, they’ll begin the dermaplaning procedure itself. You might feel a light tingling sensation as the blade grazes your skin, but overall the treatment is painless.

Lots of folks even say it’s relaxing. Keep an open dialogue with your provider, though, and let them know if you feel any discomfort. They’ll finish up by applying toning and hydrating products to your skin.

Taking care of your skin after the procedure

Dermaplaning doesn’t require any downtime, but you might notice some redness or sensitivity for a few days. When this goes away, you should be able to see the full results.

Your provider might suggest staying away from harsh exfoliants until your skin fully recovers. Also, you’ll have to be extra careful about sun exposure. Sun damage can reverse the results and increase your risk of hyperpigmentation (aka dark spots). So def lather up in SPF on the daily.

When performed by a pro, dermaplaning is a low risk procedure. But there are some potential side effects to keep in mind, like:

Dermaplaning does involve a sharp blade, so there’s an outside chance that it could lead to infections or scarring. But these side effects are rare.

Dermaplaning prices depend on the provider and if you add on other services, like a chemical peel. But in general, get ready to pay up $100 to $250 for a 30-minute session.

Pro tip: Ask your provider if they offer bundle deals. Or, see if you can find deals or coupons in your local area.

Whether you’re rocking oily, dry, or combination skin, dermaplaning can be effective on most skin types. But again, you shouldn’t get a treatment if you have an active acne breakout or if you’re recovering from a sunburn.

It’s also uber-important to manage your expectations when it comes to this service. While it could help you get closer to your skin care goals, a single sesh isn’t a long-term solution to happy, healthy skin. You might need to get treatments every 4 to 6 weeks to get the best results.

A lot of beauty salons and medical spas offer dermaplaning facials. But not all of them are the real deal. That’s why it’s great idea to check with your dermatologist first. If they don’t offer the treatment in their office, they can refer you to someone who does.

You can also hit up the American Society of Plastic Surgeons website. They have a sweet search engine to help you find a top-notch provider in your area.

Is it safe to DIY a dermaplaning facial?

You should only go to a licensed esthetician, dermatologist, or plastic surgeon for a dermaplaning treatment. Doing it at home can increase your risk of cuts, scratches, and irritation. Your results will also be much better when you’re working with a pro than trying to do it yourself.

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Not sure if a facial that involves a sharp object is right for you? Meet dermaplaning’s bladeless cousin: microdermabrasion.

Instead of a scalpel, your provider will use a rough surface to gently exfoliate your skin. It can help reduce the appearance of:

  • melasma
  • age spots
  • acne scars
  • dark spots and uneven skin texture or tone

Most microdermabrasion treatments last 30 to 40 minutes and cost around $50 to $200. Like dermaplaning, you prob won’t see instant results other than the removal of tiny hairs. You may need between 5 to 16 treatments to reduce the signs of aging, according to the American Academy of Dermatology Association (AADA).

Dermaplaning is a skin care treatment where a professional will use a thin razor or scalpel to exfoliate your skin. It can remove dead skin cells, fine hairs, and other gunk to reveal a newer layer of skin. This can provide a dewy glow and improve your skin texture.

While dermaplaning is generally considered safe, there are some risks to keep in mind. Only get it done from a licensed provider. Trying to DIY it can increase your risk of cuts and irritation and won’t lead to the same great results.