Dermaplaning is a cosmetic procedure that removes the top layer of your skin for a gentle exfoliation.1 A dermatologist or licensed esthetician performs professional dermaplaning with a surgical blade or an electric razor with a vibrating blade called a dermatome to encourage cell renewal.2
Some people have started dermaplaning at home with a small straight razor, but this is not the same as a professional treatment.3 While professional treatment provides deeper exfoliation, at-home dermaplaning is essentially facial shaving.4
Benefits of Dermaplaning
Dermaplaning at home is best if you want to smooth your skin or improve how your cosmetics and makeup look. The practice may also have several benefits for your skin.
Hair Removal
Your face has a light layer of soft vellus hair called peach fuzz.5 Many people don’t like the look of these hairs on the skin or under makeup. Dermaplaning removes the vellus hair temporarily, giving you a smooth look and feel.6
Exfoliation
The outer layer of your skin has a buildup of dead skin cells and may have scaling skin and blemishes, depending on your skin health.7 Dermaplaning at home may help remove debris and exfoliate skin for a fresher, smoother feel.8
Better Product Absorption
The fresh surface can help your skin care products and moisturizers absorb better, promoting hydration and healthy skin. It may also improve your makeup application and create a more natural look.9
Is Dermaplaning at Home Safe?
While professional dermaplaning is not an at-home procedure, facial shaving at home is likely safe.10 However, there are some potential risks and side effects.
Risks of Dermaplaning at Home
Most at-home razors aren’t very sharp but can still knick your skin or cause irritation.11 Your skin may feel tender or itchy after shaving.12 Additionally, some skin conditions, such as eczema, psoriasis, or acne, may worsen after dermaplaning at home.13
These at-home razors are often single-use blades, but you can use reusable blades if you clean them well.14 A dirty blade or knicked skin may expose you to bacteria that can lead to breakouts or infections.15
How To Dermaplane at Home
You should not attempt professional dermaplaning at home with a dermatome or a surgical blade. However, at-home straight razors are pretty straightforward.
To shave your face:16
- Clean your razor with rubbing alcohol and warm water.
- Wash your face with a gentle cleanser and pat it dry.
- Start on one side of your face and pull the skin taut with one hand. Gently drag the razor down your skin at a 45-degree angle with light strokes and pressure. Shave with the hair grain.
- Move to the other sections of your face and repeat.
- Avoid your eyes and eyebrows.
- Gently rinse your face and apply moisturizer after shaving.
- Clean and dry your razor.
Visit My Skin Treatment for More
You can learn more about the latest skin procedures with expert articles from My Skin Treatment. And remember: Talk to your doctor if your skin develops signs of infection or if you have an active skin condition.
SOURCES:
- Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center: “Dermaplaning.”
- Johns Hopkins Medicine: “Dermabrasion and Dermaplaning.”
- Three Rivers Dermatology: “Dermaplaning vs. Shaving.”
- Three Rivers Dermatology: “Dermaplaning vs. Shaving.”
- Cleveland Clinic: “Vellus Hair (Peach Fuzz).”
- Cleveland Clinic: “Is It OK To Try Dermaplaning At Home?”
- Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center: “Dermaplaning.”
- Cleveland Clinic: “Is It OK To Try Dermaplaning At Home?”
- Cleveland Clinic: “Is It OK To Try Dermaplaning At Home?”
- Cleveland Clinic: “Is It OK To Try Dermaplaning At Home?”
- Cleveland Clinic: “Is It OK To Try Dermaplaning At Home?”
- Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center: “Dermaplaning.”
- Cleveland Clinic: “Is It OK To Try Dermaplaning At Home?”
- Cleveland Clinic: “Is It OK To Try Dermaplaning At Home?”
- Cleveland Clinic: “Is It OK To Try Dermaplaning At Home?”
- Healthline: “Should You Shave Your Face If You’re a Woman? Pros and Cons.”