Dare to Dermaplane

STORY AND ILLUSTRATIONS BY JULIA GREENWOOD PHOTOS BY PROVIDED

Aflawless complexion might seem like something only reserved for celebrities and TikTok filters, but in the new world of skincare, an old secret is coming back: Dermaplaning. Popular with many celebrities such as Reese Witherspoon and Elizabeth Taylor, dermaplaning helps enhance the natural glow of the skin. Peach fuzz, rough skin, dirt buildup, and acne scars are problems we all experience, but with so many treatments out there, it can be hard to find a place to start. Dermaplaning is an exfoliating treatment used by dermatologists to combat these facial skin concerns. A small, thin blade is what removes dead skin cells, which can help minimize wrinkles and acne scars as well as even out the complexion. This blade is only “scratching” the surface of the skin so the body can produce new, healthy skin cells. Shaving and dermaplaning are not the same thing, as dermaplaning provides more targeted and effective exfoliation. Dermaplaning can do wonders for the skin, but like most treatments, safety is the most important. Only certified dermatologists or estheticians should perform dermaplaning, as it decreases the risk of side effects. The side effects of dermaplaning include breakouts, skin infections, irritation, and skin redness. So, needless to say, best to leave it up to the professionals. Those with acne-prone and active breakout skin should also not do dermaplaning treatments, as it may intensify the breakouts.

After the treatment, the skin is still sensitive, so it is recommended to avoid sun exposure, applying other topical treatments, and swimming in chlorine pools. It is also recommended to avoid wearing makeup or doing vigorous exercise, so take the opportunity to have a chill, self-care night.

Typically, most patients go in for dermaplaning treatments once per month. Treatments can also be costly, varying from $75 - $150 every session. On top of this, dermaplaning is on the gentle side of exfoliation and only works by removing cells from the top layers of the skin, so it may be less effective for those with deeper skin concerns.

Here is a friendly reminder: your peach fuzz, acne scars, and wrinkles are beautiful and do not need to be changed, ever. But, if clear skin is the dream and all those lotions and potions are not working anymore, try dermaplaning. It might just become the next big thing in the skincare world.