Dermaplaning is a form of in-clinic exfoliation treatment that removes dead skin cells from the topmost layer of skin. It involves the use of a sterile surgical scalpel to gently remove dead skin cells and facial hair, also known as “peach fuzz”. By gently scraping away this layer along with oil and other debris, clinicians can improve the appearance and smoothness of the skin. After treatment, patients can expect their skincare products to penetrate more evenly and hydrate more efficiently. Aside from skincare, patients can also enjoy more blended, smoother applications of foundational makeup that do not look “cakey” and unflattering. This type of facial can serve as a great introduction to the world of skin rejuvenation without the use of harsh chemical exfoliants.

Dermaplaning offers a range of benefits for individuals seeking a skincare procedure that results in smooth, flawless skin. To book a consultation for one of these simple, yet effective treatments, call Allegro Medspa in Santa Rosa, CA at (707) 537-2111. You can also get in touch using our contact form. After inquiring, one of our licensed aestheticians can evaluate your skin and let you know more about the benefits dermaplaning has to offer.

The Importance of Skin Exfoliation

It takes approximately one month for a skin cell from the deep basal layer of the skin (the base membrane of the epidermis, or the top layer of skin) to rise to the surface of the skin. ⁽¹⁾ Although this process naturally happens every day, these cells eventually die off and can lead to dryness and flakiness if not properly exfoliated. In certain individuals’ skin, the dead cells can clog pores and trigger more oily production and breakouts.

Exfoliation is a necessary aspect of skin care that everyone should practice; it is suitable for normal, dry, and oily types of skin. One of the most important aspects of exfoliation is frequency; some individuals may need more frequent exfoliation whereas others may benefit from less. Many use at-home exfoliators with harsh ingredients like salicylic acid. Although salicylic acid can be useful, many times, people apply it inappropriately and dehydrate their skin. Other means of exfoliating include loofahs, pumice stones, washcloths, and exfoliating mitts, but these can give mixed results, strip away the top layers of skin unevenly, and expose the skin to more inflammation-causing bacteria.

Dermaplaning, on the other hand, does not include the use of dehydrating chemicals and promotes the most predictable exfoliating results since it requires a professional’s expertise. Afterward, clinicians apply topical serums customized to your exact needs to revive and assist in healing and collagen production. The treatment boosts cellular turnover, the process in which the skin replenishes the epidermis with new cells.

What Are the Other Benefits of Dermaplaning?

Increasing collagen production and cellular turnover translates to a variety of aesthetic benefits, including:

Aside from these cosmetic improvements, many patients are also attracted to the treatment because it:

How is Dermaplaning Different from Shaving Your Face?

Dermaplaning removes the stratum corneum of the skin, the surface of the epidermis, so it can predictably exfoliate better than an at-home razor. These razors can provide some mild exfoliating effects, but they are often uneven and inhibited by the shaving cream. Shaving is only truly effective at trimming down vellus hair (finer, inconspicuous hairs) and thicker terminal hairs on facial skin, so it can give the illusion of exfoliating smoothness, but it is not the same.

Candidates

Dermaplaning is suitable for just about any patient looking for a quick and effective skin rejuvenation treatment that will not require an extensive healing period. It is appropriate for all skin types and people of all ages. Still, there are some exceptions. Those with active acne, eczema, rosacea, or psoriasis should seek out another treatment for their condition before undergoing a dermaplaning session. Those who have experienced a viral outbreak near the treatment area should consult their clinician about taking an antiviral medication to prevent it from triggering an outbreak.

Personal Consultation

During your consultation, your aesthetician at Allegro Medspa will ask you about your skincare goals and any challenges you may currently have. If they think you could benefit from this simple treatment, they will move forward with scheduling your first session. During this first meeting, you will be able to ask questions and consider other skin rejuvenation options available at our medspa. If you would like to learn more before calling in, read through our blog.

To find out for yourself if dermaplaning is right for you, call our Santa Rosa location at (707) 537-2111 or fill out our contact form, and we will respond to you as soon as possible.

Preparation

There is not much required to prepare for your treatment except making some alterations to your skincare routine. You should avoid exfoliating ingredients, waxing, retinol, and other similar products beforehand to prevent triggering more irritation. You should also try to limit UV exposure to limit sun damage in the days leading up to your session. You should invest in a high-quality sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or more and apply it daily.

Treatment Steps

Before your treatment, your aesthetician will first cleanse your skin with an alcohol swab to cleanse the surface and wipe away any excess oil. They will then open up a brand new, disposable blade and begin gently scraping at the thin layer of dead skin overlying your skin. They will use small back-and-forth motions to gather up a small pile of debris before removing it. With each stroke, they will hold the skin taut to get the closest contact possible. They will carefully avoid any breakouts in and around the treatment area. Clinicians hold the blade carefully at a 45-degree angle for the most precise movements. Within just 20 to 30 minutes, the entire treatment is complete.

Can I Dermaplane At Home?

It is possible to dermaplane at home, but it does carry some risks. Though it may seem simple, there is a possibility of cutting too deeply and scarring the skin. With the use of this sharp tool, it is also possible to break the skin and/or expose your skin to more bacteria, causing infection to develop. Improper dermaplaning can also trigger hyperpigmentation. Though many may view this treatment as relatively harmless, these are likely occurrences if you do not have the training and expertise of a licensed aesthetician. If you want a similar at-home exfoliating experience, consult your aesthetician on what they recommend for your specific needs.

Recovery and Results

After your treatment, your aesthetician may apply a moisturizing mask or serum to provide a protective barrier for your skin. If you would like a more comprehensive treatment, you may opt for a chemical peel or another HydraFacial to amplify your results after this session. If you have relatively sensitive skin and want to see how you react to the dermaplaning before considering another procedure, this is also a viable option. Even if you undergo dermaplaning alone, you will notice a significant difference in texture right away. Your skin may feel sensitive and slightly inflamed, but this should go away within a few hours. You will want to avoid the sun and other forms of UV ray exposure until this irritation subsides. The next day, remember to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 if it is not part of your normal skincare routine already. You should avoid other exfoliating products for at least a couple of weeks. After your dermaplaning session, you will find that your makeup foundation will blend much better than before since no dead skin cells are creating a dry, “cakey” texture. Other healing moisturizers will penetrate the deep layers of your skin with more ease, adding more hydration to the deeper layers and increasing their collagen-boosting properties.

Cost of Dermaplaning in Santa Rosa

The cost will depend on your dermaplaning treatment plan and if you choose to undergo any complementary treatments. Chemical peels and HydraFacials can further enhance the skin rejuvenation effects, so you may want to consider these options as an added investment. Your Allegro Medspa aesthetician will give you an accurate cost estimate during your consultation after considering every aspect of your treatment plan.

To get started today, we invite you to give us a call at (707) 537-2111 or inquire with our contact form. You can also visit our medspa in person at our location in Santa Rosa, and our staff will gladly schedule your consultation at a time most convenient for you.

FAQ

References

1. Alberts B, Johnson A, Lewis J, Raff M, Roberts K, Walter P. Epidermis and Its Renewal by Stem Cells. www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. Published 2002. Accessed June 19, 2024. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK26865/#:~:text=The%20period%20from%20the%20time
2. Tijani AO, Frempong D, Kaur J, et al. Dermaplaning for Transdermal Drug Permeation Enhancement: A Qualitative and Quantitative Assessment. AAPS PharmSciTech. 2023;24(2):54. doi:https://doi.org/10.1208/s12249-023-02505-y