Overview | Dermaplaning vs. microdermabrasion | Benefits | Procedure steps | Expected results
As we age, we want to discover new ways of helping our skin retain its youthful vibrancy. We want our skin to look as young as we feel on the inside. After all, you are fit so why not let your skin reflect this good health.
One such method of keeping your skin young and supple is by the use of dermaplaning treatment. Today, I will take you through what this skin treatment entails and also answer some frequently asked questions by my patients.
What is dermaplaning treatment?
Dermaplaning treatment is a type of skin treatment procedure that makes use of an exfoliation blade to rid your skin of hair and dead cells. It helps to even out your skin and can even improve skin appearance from acne scars.
Dermaplaning is a favorite among supermodels and celebrities, partly due to the minimal downtime after the procedure. You can pop out of the office or step away from your day-to-day duties, arrive for your treatment, and in just 30 minutes it’s done! You’ll be ready to go about your day – with smoother, glowing skin!
What is the difference between dermaplaning and microdermabrasion?
A lot of my patients tend to confuse dermaplaning treatment with microdermabrasion. Let me quickly take you through how they differ from each other.
Dermaplaning treatment makes use of an exfoliating blade to remove tiny hair and dead skin cells. On the other hand, microdermabrasion uses a rough surface instead of a blade to achieve a similar effect. While the results of the two treatments are almost similar, microdermabrasion results can last longer. Depending on your skin problems, your dermatologist will tell you which treatment will work better for you.
Dermaplaning requires a skilled skin specialist to handle a sharp and sterile surgical blade, which gently slides over the skin at a 45-degree angle; this draws away all unwanted dead skin cells and fine facial hairs, leaving the surface extremely smooth and radiant. Clean and smooth skin, free of dead skin cells and peach fuzz, allows for greater penetration of skincare products, also creating a beautifully even canvas for makeup to glide on flawlessly.
What are the benefits of dermaplaning treatment?
Dermaplaning treatment has many benefits, which make it a popular choice. Some of these are:
- It is suited to sensitive skin
- It has no downtime
- It is a painless treatment
- It prevents thick and dark growth of hair
- It can treat acne scars
- It helps to exfoliate dead skin cells for better skin product penetration
- It helps to treat clogged-up pores and blackheads/whiteheads
Peach fuzz can leave skin looking dull, as it traps oils and debris and leaves them clinging to your skin. Once the fuzz and dead skin cells are removed, your skin will feel fantastically clean and healthy.
How is dermaplaning different from shaving your face?
Dermaplaning treatment may seem like shaving but it is actually much more. It makes the use of a very fine blade to remove dead cells in addition to fine hair. Moreover, despite of its more efficient approach, the dermaplaning treatment is done at a superficial level and there is no bleeding.
When can you opt for a dermaplaning treatment?
I advise dermaplaning treatment for patients who want to brighten up their skin and simultaneously treat signs of aging like wrinkles. Dermaplaning can also work on removing skin cells that have been damaged by sun exposure and environmental toxins. It is also suited for candidates with clogged up pores and helps to treat blackheads and whiteheads.
According to the American Society for Plastic Surgeons, the dermaplaning treatment can be used to treat deep acne scars too.
Patients with blonde, brown, or gray hairs who are often not suitable for laser hair removal especially benefit from dermaplaning; it removes all the unwanted fuzz, as well as leaves behind smoother, fresher skin. If patients have a mixture of light and dark hair, they can have a combination treatment with laser hair removal, to treat every hair.
Which parts of the body can benefit from this treatment?
Dermaplaning treatment is best suited to small patches of skin that need treatment. The entire face is commonly treated.
Why is dermaplanning necessary?
The build-up of dead skin cells and unwanted hair can make the complexion appear dull and flaky, as well as cause blockages due to clogged pores. So, dermaplaning is a very coveted treatment.
What are the dermaplaning procedure steps carried out by a dermatologist?
Dermaplaning is the perfect ‘add-on’ procedure to prep the skin before treatments such as skin peels, laser hair removal, and laser treatments. I often use dermaplaning so that you respond more effectively, as the dead skin cells have been removed, enhancing your experience and taking your end results to the next level.
The procedure of a dermaplaning treatment goes as follows:
- The patient is made to relax in a chair at the dermatologist’s clinic
- A numbing agent is applied; general anesthesia is rarely used, as the patient should not feel any pain, only a mild tingling on the skin
- A manual or an electronic dermaplaning device is used once the numbness sets in
- The entire process of treatment may take anywhere between 20 minutes to half an hour
- A soothing ointment is applied to the treated area after the treatment is complete. Also active ingredients like Vitamin C and Hyaluronic Acid can be used for better penetration into the skin.
- The dermatologist may also apply sunscreen for added sun protection
What necessary information should you share with your doctor?
Before getting a dermaplaning treatment done, you must share your entire medical history as well as your skin type with your doctor. You should also let your doctor know what you expect out of the treatment.
Are there any risks associated with the treatment?
Dermaplaning treatment is a procedure with barely any risks. At the most, you may experience a slight redness which will settle in about a few hours. A skin patch may appear, which should also resolve on its own.
What results can you expect after treatment?
While the skin may initially appear red, within a few days, you will notice a very visible brightness. These results may last for a maximum duration of one month. During this time, you have to protect your skin from the sun or it may turn patchy and reverse the results of the treatment. Also, do keep in mind that results can vary between patients. Your dermatologist will let you know what you can expect to see.
What are some skin care tips to be followed after the dermaplaning treatment?
Dermaplaning requires you to look after your skin to maintain results. I individually counsel patients and prescribe a skin care regime suited to their unique problems that can include certain ointments and skin care products. In particular, the National Center for Biotechnology Information notes that dermaplaning treatment is the most effective when combined with a thorough skin care regime that includes vitamin therapy and the application of sunscreen.
Does dermaplaning hurt?
The dermatologist applies a numbing agent to the area to be treated. So, you should not feel anything except a mild tingling. Johns Hopkins Medicine also notes that some patients might experience a sensation of burning.
Can I wear make-up?
While you may wear make-up immediately after the treatment, I advise patients to let their skin breathe for a day before putting on any foundation.
How frequently is the treatment required?
The results of dermaplaning typically last around a month. For some, it lasts three weeks.
How should you manage skin after treatment?
Your dermatologist will prescribe certain treatment ointments to be used. These may generally contain hyaluronic acid in the form of a moisturizer of a mask to keep the skin moisturized. Also, remember to use sunscreen. Follow-up with your dermatologist when they tell you to come next.
What are some things to avoid?
While dermaplaning tools are easily available in the market, I really urge you to avoid these and instead get treated by a professional dermatologist. Doing dermaplanning on your own can increase the chances of infection and pain.
Closing thoughts
If you are looking for a painless method to treat scars on your sensitive skin, you must opt for dermaplanning. The procedure does not involve a high recovery period. Consult an experienced dermatologist and they will guide you if you are suited for this method or any other treatment alternative. Get ready to look forward to healthy skin days!
References
- The National Center for Biotechnology Information – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21533984
- The American Society of Plastic Surgeons – https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/dermabrasion
- Johns Hopkins Medicine – https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/dermabrasion-and-dermaplaning
Dr. Batul Patel is a celebrity dermatologist and the medical director of The Bombay Skin Clinic an award winning clinic located in South Mumbai & Bandra. She is a passionate and dedicated dermatologist with expertise in all fields of dermatology, trichology and aesthetic dermatology. She has been practicing for more than a decade. Her range of expertise include emsculpt NEO, coolsculpting, fillers, acne treatment, lasers, skin rejuvenation, hair loss, hair transplant, PRP & pigmentation treatments.