Chemical skin treatments, like organic acid peels, are capable of producing dramatic results quickly. Still, no single skin treatment is right for every patient. People with very sensitive skin, for example, are usually advised against using chemical peels, because they’re at risk of experiencing pronounced swelling and irritation. People with dark skin are often concerned about the possibility of skin lightening or darkening following chemical or laser skincare treatments. There’s also downtime to consider: Some people just don’t have time to deal with the redness and flaking that accompanies chemical peeling. For all of these patients, dermaplaning provides a convenient, noninvasive alternative.

What is Dermaplaning?

At first glance, dermaplaning looks a lot like Victorian-era shaving: A thin blade is dragged across the surface of the skin, shearing away even very fine hairs and revealing a fresh, clean surface. Dermaplaning removes a lot more than just unwanted hair, however. This treatment also exfoliates the skin, removing dead skin cells and excess oil.

Like most exfoliation systems, dermaplaning is capable of stimulating collagen production, and this makes it a useful anti-aging therapy. By scraping away some of the uppermost layer of the epidermis, dermaplaning increases the rate of cellular renewal. As the patient’s old layer of dry, damaged skin is replaced by healthy collagen-enriched cells, fine lines and age spots are diminished. Textural abnormalities, like patches of rough or uneven skin, may also disappear after repeated treatments.

What are the Advantages of Dermaplaning?

Dermaplaning has a number of unique benefits that set it apart from other popular skin rejuvenation treatments:

1. Absolutely no recovery time is needed after having dermaplaning.

Most skin resurfacing methods promise minimal downtime. However, while it’s true that patients don’t have to rest in bed after having a chemical or laser treatment, symptoms of redness, flaking, and mild swelling can persist for a few days. Some patients therefore choose to take time off of work after having these procedures, simply for cosmetic reasons.

With dermaplaning, there’s no risk of experiencing these side effects. Patients sometimes notice a slight rosy glow immediately following treatment, but this quickly fades away, revealing radiant, healthy skin.

2. Dermaplaning is painless.

Dermaplaning will not cause pain, burning sensations, or skin irritation. Patients generally only experience a mild tingling or scraping sensation when having this treatment, even if they have very sensitive skin.

3. Dermaplaning is perfect for big events.

Chemical peels and laser treatments require very specific aftercare. Patients who have these procedures generally cannot wear makeup for at least three days after their treatment (cosmetics can worsen irritation and redness). They also have to be very careful to avoid even mild sun exposure due to the increased risk of UV damage that accompanies conventional skin resurfacing.

With dermaplaning, on the other hand, patients can usually safely apply cosmetics within hours of their treatment. In fact, many celebrities use dermaplaning before important events, because it creates the perfect surface for smooth, even makeup application. If you’re hoping to achieve a picture-perfect glow in time for a party or wedding, dermaplaning should be your go-to treatment.

Schedule a Consultation

Finding medical grade skincare that’s both chemical and side effect-free can be a challenge—that’s why Dr. Gilpin gives his patients a number of options to choose from when creating their personalized skincare plan. If you would like to learn more about dermaplaning, feel free to contact Gilpin Facial Plastics by filling out our online form. Dr. Gilpin will be happy to answer your questions and help you set up a skincare consultation.