Dermaplanning

What is dermaplaning?

 

Dermaplaning is used to treat deep acne scars with a hand-held instrument called a dermatome. The dermatome looks like an electric razor and has an oscillating blade that moves back and forth to evenly "skim" off the surface layers of skin that surround the craters, or other facial defects.

 

Who gets dermaplaning?

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You may consider dermaplaning if you have skin concerns such as:

• Acne scars.

• Actinic keratosis (scaly skin patches that can lead to skin cancer).

• Dull or dry skin.

• Peach fuzz (light, soft hair on your face).

• Skin damaged by sun exposure.

• Fine lines (wrinkles).

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What happens before dermaplaning?

Before the procedure, your healthcare provider will:

• Discuss your goals for the procedure.

• Examine your skin to make sure it’s healthy enough for the procedure.

• Explain what you can expect before, during and after dermaplaning.

• Review your health history.

 

Sometimes, your healthcare provider will take photos of the area that needs treatment. The photos help you compare the “before” and “after” results of dermaplaning.

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Your healthcare provider will also let you know if there are any special instructions you need to follow before the procedure, such as not smoking for a few weeks. Not smoking may help you heal faster after the procedure.

 

What happens during dermaplaning?

 

Dermaplaning doesn’t require general anesthesia, but your healthcare provider might put a numbing cream or spray on your face about half an hour before the procedure.

 

You might feel a scratching or stinging sensation on your skin, but dermaplaning usually isn’t painful.

Your healthcare provider uses a special instrument called a dermatome to remove hair and skin cells. The tool looks a bit like an electric razor. The dermatome has a small blade that moves back and forth across your skin. It doesn’t make cuts in your skin, but gently shaves off the top layers of skin.

 

Afterward, they may apply a soothing gel or ointment to your skin to reduce redness, swelling or irritation.

The treatment can last anywhere from a few minutes to an hour and a half. The length of the procedure depends on the size of the area that needs treatment.

 

What happens after dermaplaning?

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Your skin will likely be red, swollen and slightly tender after the dermaplaning procedure. Your healthcare provider may recommend over the counter pain medication to help with any discomfort. If you notice swelling lasts longer than a week or worsens, contact your healthcare provider.

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What are the risks of dermaplaning?

 

Dermaplaning is generally considered a safe cosmetic procedure. However, it does carry the following risks:

• Infection.

• Scarring such as keloid or hypertrophic (raised) scars.

• Skin discoloration (skin that turns lighter or darker than the surrounding skin).

 

What are the benefits of dermaplaning?

 

Dermaplaning can help minimize the appearance of acne scars, fine lines, wrinkles and dull skin. The procedure can reveal smoother, firmer and healthier skin.