How Often Should You Dermaplane?

A dermaplaning facial is our secret weapon for silky smooth skin, flawless makeup application, and better product penetration. If you’ve ever wondered how often you should get a dermaplane facial, you’re in the right place! As downtown Bethesda’s skincare experts, we're here to provide you with the ultimate guide to all things dermaplaning. So, keep reading for everything you need to know!

What is Dermaplaning?

Before diving into how often we recommend that you get a dermaplane facial, let's first understand what dermaplaning is! Dermaplaning is a non-invasive exfoliation treatment that involves using a sterile surgical scalpel to gently scrape away the top layer of dead skin cells and fine vellus hair also known as “peach fuzz.” This quick and painless process reveals smoother, brighter skin and allows your skincare products to penetrate more effectively. While this concept may sound similar to shaving, it is vastly different and offers many more glowy benefits!

What does Dermaplaning Remove?

During your custom facial, our aestheticians use a medical-grade scalpel that they delicately use across the face to remove not only the outermost layer of dead skin cells but also the fine vellus hair. The primary goal is to exfoliate rather than remove hair, but the latter is always a welcomed side effect!

Does Dermplaning Hurt?

Nope! We love dermaplaning because while it’s non-invasive, it delivers big results without any discomfort. You might feel a slight scraping sensation, but it's not uncomfortable for most people.

Does it Make Your Facial Hair Grow Back Faster?

Don’t worry, dermaplaning doesn’t cause your hair to grow back thicker or darker. Simply put, the soft, light hair (called vellus hair or peach fuzz) that dermaplaning removes grows back just the same afterward. It doesn't come back thicker, more textured, or faster. So, don't worry about any changes in your hair after dermaplaning!

How Long Does a Dermaplaning Session Take?

A typical dermaplaning session lasts around 30 minutes in addition to your 60 minute custom Defy facial. 

Who can Benefit from Dermaplaning?

Dermaplaning is for almost everyone! Here’s who can benefit:

Those with Dull Skin: If your skin looks tired and lacks its natural glow, dermaplaning can absolutely help. By removing dead skin cells, it reveals fresh, radiant skin and promotes a glowy, youthful look! Plus, it makes your skin the perfect canvas for applying makeup. Trust us, your makeup will never look better!

Those with Unwanted Facial Hair: Got peach fuzz? Unlike waxing or threading, dermaplaning doesn’t create redness or irritation, making it a much better option for sensitive skin types. 

Those with Dry Skin: Say goodbye to dull, flaky skin! Dermaplaning works wonders for dry skin by gently scraping away the dull top layer of skin, revealing the softer, more hydrated skin beneath. This process also boosts the absorption of moisturizers and hydrating serums, making them more effective in combating skin dryness!

Skincare Fans: If you're really into skincare (like we are!), adding dermaplaning to your facial routine once or twice a month can make your other skincare products work even better! When dermaplaning removes dead skin cells, it lets your products sink in deeper. This means they can do their job better and you will see results faster!

Those Who Want to Reduce Fine Lines: Even though dermaplaning is not officially an anti-aging treatment, dermaplaning can still help make fine lines look less noticeable. By scrubbing away old skin cells, it encourages your skin to make fresh ones, which can make you look younger over time.

Those with Sensitive Skin: Dermaplaning is gentle enough for sensitive skin because it doesn't involve harsh chemicals or strong active ingredients. Instead, it's a mechanical process that uses a tool to gently scrape away dead skin cells and peach fuzz. As long as there are no active breakouts, dermaplaning shouldn't cause irritation for most people with sensitive skin. However, during your skincare analysis, our expert aestheticians will determine if dermaplaning is right for your skin type! 

Those who want Instant Results: Need a quick fix? Dermaplaning delivers almost immediate results, making it perfect for special events or just a boost of confidence! 

Those who are Prepping for a Big Event: If you have a special event or occasion coming up, scheduling a dermaplaning session one to two weeks prior can help you achieve a super glowy, radiant complexion.

Is there any Downtime after Dermaplaning?

Good news, there is no downtime! Some may experience slight redness immediately after the treatment, but it usually subsides within a few hours. You can resume your normal activities and skincare routine right away, although we usually recommend staying away from exfoliating products for 3 days after

How Does Dermaplaning Compare to Other Exfoliation Methods like Chemical Peels?

Dermaplaning and chemical peels all help make your skin smoother, but they do it in different ways! During a dermaplane facial, your facialist uses a small blade to scrape off dead skin and fuzz while chemical peels use special chemicals to peel away dead skin. It's like giving your skin a fresh start by taking off the top layer. Each method has its own benefits, so it depends on what you want for your skin!

So, How Often Should I Get a Dermaplane Facial?

For most skin types, dermaplaning every 4-6 weeks is often recommended. This timing allows your skin to go through its natural regeneration cycle. However, our aestheticians will determine how often your skin could benefit from this treatment during your skin analysis at the start of your facial.

Is there any Downtime after Dermaplaning?

Good news, there is no downtime! Some may experience slight redness immediately after the treatment, but it usually subsides within a few hours. You can resume your normal activities and skincare routine right away, although we usually recommend staying away from exfoliating products for 3 days after.

How Does Dermaplaning Compare to Other Exfoliation Methods like Chemical Peels?

Dermaplaning and chemical peels all help make your skin smoother, but they do it in different ways! During a dermaplane facial, your facialist uses a small blade to scrape off dead skin and fuzz while chemical peels use special chemicals to peel away dead skin. It's like giving your skin a fresh start by taking off the top layer. Each method has its own benefits, so it depends on what you want for your skin!

So, How Often Should I Get a Dermaplane Facial?

For most skin types, dermaplaning every 4-6 weeks is often recommended. This timing allows your skin to go through its natural regeneration cycle. However, our aestheticians will determine how often your skin could benefit from this treatment during your skin analysis at the start of your facial.

How Long Do Dermaplaning Results Last?

The effects of dermaplaning can last anywhere from two to four weeks, depending on your skin type and how quickly your skin naturally regenerates! Regular sessions can help maintain smooth, radiant skin over time.

Can I Dermaplane at Home?

While there are at-home dermaplaning tools available, dermaplaning without proper training and supervision can pose risks, including cuts, irritation, and infection. Remember, you’re dealing with a very sharp tool close to your face! For optimal results, it's best to leave dermaplaning to the experts and schedule regular sessions with our trained aestheticians. 

Whether you're interested in a Dermaplane facial, Botox or Dysport, facial filler, collagen-boosting skin lasers, or want to learn more about our Defy Monthly Facial Membership (a perfect choice for those who want to transform their skin without the pricetag over the course of a year!), we’d love to see you in our Bethesda medical spa soon!

Cathryn Speck