If you’re looking for a way to make your makeup go on smoother, dermaplaning may be the answer. The treatment, also known as “shaving your face,” involves a specialist using a blade to scrape off the top layer of dead skin cells and fine facial hair (aka peach fuzz), leaving the complexion brighter, more even, and with a soft, baby-like texture. It’s the same technique that makeup artist Vincent Oquendo uses on celebrities like Lily Collins and Hailee Steinfeld to get them ready for the cameras, and it’s a quick and effective treatment you can do yourself at home.
A derampalne session begins with a thorough cleansing of the skin to remove surface impurities. A vitamin-drenched mask is then applied to the face for hydration and to further regulate skin’s pH levels, and a gentle exfoliating peel is then performed to help dissolve and eliminate dead skin cells. Once your skin is completely clean and exfoliated, a dermaplane head attachment is then attached to the device which, similar to an electric razor, carefully glides over your face, scraping away the thin top layer of skin. This helps eliminate peach fuzz and prevents buildup of dead skin, which can make pores appear larger and wrinkles more pronounced.
According to dermatologist Melissa Doft, MD, dermaplaning is safe for most skin types and textures, although those with rosacea or other inflammatory conditions may want to skip it since the sharp scalpel can irritate the skin. She also advises against sliding the blade over inflamed acne since it can spread bacteria and worsen breakouts. Instead, she suggests gently chemical exfoliants, like lactic acid or polyhydroxy acids, to improve the appearance of inflamed pimples.
The good news is that there’s no downtime involved with a dermaplaning facial, and most patients report the process feeling similar to shaving their face—just more precise and without the blood and irritation. But since some skin is typically left bare afterward, it’s important to protect it with sunscreen every day.
Another great thing about dermaplaning is that it can also help minimize the appearance of pores by helping products like moisturizers and serums penetrate the skin better. And since the scraping of the skin triggers the production of collagen, it can help smooth fine lines and wrinkles, too.
However, dermaplaning won’t do much to reduce dark spots or acne scars, and it doesn’t help with inflamed or cystic acne, either. And, if you’re taking isotretinoin or other retinoids to treat severe acne, it’s best to wait until you’ve finished your prescription before trying out the procedure. And, as with all skincare treatments, it’s a good idea to talk to your dermatologist before going to get your skin professionally shaved. After all, the last thing you want is to reopen your pores to dirt and oils.