Dermaplaning: The Facial Treatment That Leaves Skin Instantly Glowing
If you’ve ever noticed your skin looking noticeably brighter and smoother after a facial — and wondered what actually caused that — dermaplaning may be one of the answers. It’s a quick, painless, and surprisingly effective professional treatment that’s often underestimated because it sounds simple. Here’s what it actually does, who it works best for, and what you can expect.
What Is Dermaplaning?
Dermaplaning is a professional exfoliation technique that uses a sterile, surgical-grade blade held at a precise angle against the skin. The blade glides gently across the surface, physically removing the outermost layer of dead skin cells along with the fine vellus hair — commonly called peach fuzz — from the face.
The result is immediately visible: skin that looks and feels noticeably smoother, brighter, and more even in texture right after the session. There’s no downtime, no peeling phase, and no recovery period — you can leave the studio and get on with your day.
It’s important to understand what dermaplaning is and isn’t. It’s a surface exfoliation and hair removal treatment — not a collagen-stimulating or skin-tightening procedure. It doesn’t reach the deeper dermal layers that Morpheus8 or microneedling target. What it does exceptionally well is clear the skin’s surface of the buildup that can make it look dull, uneven, and rough — and create an ideal canvas for other treatments or skincare products to work more effectively.
What Gets Removed (and What Doesn’t)
What dermaplaning removes:
Dead skin cells from the stratum corneum (the skin’s outermost layer), which build up naturally over time and contribute to dullness, flakiness, and uneven texture.
Vellus hair (“peach fuzz”) — the fine, soft, light-coloured hair that most people have on their cheeks, forehead, and upper lip. Unlike terminal hair (the coarser, darker hair on the brows, upper lip, or chin in some people), vellus hair is too fine for laser hair removal to target effectively — making dermaplaning one of the few ways to address it.
What dermaplaning does NOT remove:
Deeper skin concerns — wrinkles, sagging, deeper acne scars, or significant pigmentation. These require treatments that reach into the dermis, such as Morpheus8, chemical peels, or laser.
Terminal (coarse, pigmented) hair — dermaplaning isn’t designed for this, and attempting to use it as facial hair removal for terminal hair is not recommended.
Milia or active acne lesions — the blade should not be used over active breakouts.
Who Is It For?
Dermaplaning is a good fit for a wide range of skin types and concerns, which contributes to its popularity as a universal maintenance treatment.
Well suited for:
- Dry, dull, or flaky skin that looks flat or tired
- Uneven skin texture from surface buildup
- Anyone who wants smoother makeup application (foundation sits noticeably better on dermaplaned skin)
- Clients preparing for a photofacial, peel, or other treatment that benefits from a cleared surface
- Those bothered by the appearance of peach fuzz
- People who want a visible glow with zero downtime
Generally a good fit regardless of skin tone — unlike some resurfacing methods, dermaplaning doesn’t involve light or heat, so the risk of pigmentation changes is not a concern in the same way.
Who Should Avoid It?
Dermaplaning isn’t appropriate for everyone. It’s best to avoid it if you have:
Active acne breakouts in the treatment area — the blade passing over active lesions can spread bacteria and worsen inflammation.
Raised skin lesions, warts, or moles — these should not be passed over with the blade.
Very sensitive or reactive skin conditions such as active rosacea flares, eczema, or psoriasis in the treatment area.
Isotretinoin (Accutane) use — current or recent use is typically a contraindication for any mechanical exfoliation, as the medication significantly affects skin sensitivity and healing.
If you have any uncertainty about whether dermaplaning is right for your skin, a quick consultation clarifies everything before you book.
Dermaplaning + Chemical Peel Combo
One of the most popular ways to get more from a dermaplaning session is to follow it with a light chemical peel. The logic is straightforward: dermaplaning clears the surface of dead skin and peach fuzz, creating better contact between the peel solution and the skin beneath. The result is a more even, deeper peel with enhanced results compared to applying the peel to unprepared skin.
This combination is often called a “Dermaplane Facial” and is a popular monthly treatment for clients who want consistent skin renewal with no downtime.
The peel used in combination with dermaplaning is typically a lighter, superficial option — appropriate for a same-session combination. Stronger medium-depth peels are not combined with dermaplaning in the same appointment.
You can read more about peel types and what each one does in our chemical peels guide.
Results
The most immediately noticeable result is texture — skin feels strikingly smooth to the touch right after the session. Most clients also notice a visible brightening and clarity, as the dull surface layer that had been filtering light is removed.
Makeup applies more evenly and lasts longer on dermaplaned skin — this is one of the most commonly reported benefits from clients who wear foundation regularly.
The effects of a single dermaplaning session typically last 3–4 weeks, which aligns with the skin’s natural cell turnover cycle. Most clients who love dermaplaning treat it as a monthly maintenance appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my hair grow back thicker or darker after dermaplaning?
No — this is a common misconception. Vellus hair has no pigment and no change in follicle structure occurs from dermaplaning. The hair grows back the same as before: fine, soft, and light-coloured. The feeling of slight stubbly regrowth some people notice is simply the blunt edge of the cut hair, which becomes less noticeable within a few days.
Is dermaplaning painful?
Not at all. Most clients describe it as a gentle scraping sensation — some even find it relaxing. There’s no numbing required and no discomfort during or after.
Can I get dermaplaning if I have facial hair I want to keep?
Yes, with communication. Your provider will avoid the areas you specify. It’s important to be clear about which areas you want treated and which to avoid before the session begins.
How soon after dermaplaning can I wear makeup?
Generally the same day, though waiting a few hours is advisable to give the skin a brief period to settle. Avoid heavy or occlusive products immediately after.
How often should I get dermaplaning?
Most clients do well with a session every 3–4 weeks, aligned with the skin’s natural cell renewal cycle. More frequent sessions are generally not recommended, as the skin needs time to rebuild the surface layer before the next exfoliation.
Can dermaplaning help with product absorption?
Yes — removing the dead skin layer that can act as a barrier allows serums, moisturizers, and other skincare products to absorb more efficiently. Many clients notice their existing skincare routine performing better in the weeks following a dermaplaning session.
Book a Dermaplaning Session
Interested in experiencing immediately smoother, brighter skin — or combining dermaplaning with a chemical peel for enhanced results?
👉 Book your dermaplaning session or explore our full range of facial treatments.