At Balance MedSpa, we offer several different exfoliating treatments, but one of our most popular options is dermaplaning. We find patients love dermaplaning because it does more than simply exfoliate. While the treatment does remove dead skin cells and create a healthy glow, it has has numerous other benefits that last for weeks after your session, if not longer. Keep reading to learn more about dermaplaning and its key benefits, and discover whether it’s a good option for you.
Dermaplaning: Defined
The term “plane” means “to level or flatten,” so essentially, dermaplaning is a procedure that aims to level or flatten your skin. That might sound a but harsh, but dermaplaning is actually quite safe and non-invasive. The treatment is performed using a specialized scalpel. Your practitioner will use the scalpel to gently scrape the surface of your skin, removing the dead outer skin cells and fine hairs.
Your practitioner can dermaplane your whole face, or they can just treat a small area. Their approach will depend on your goals and the specific skin ailments you’re hoping to address.
Benefits of Dermaplaning
Dermaplaning can be used to address a wide variety of skin concerns including acne scarring, discoloration, and a dull complexion. By removing the highly pigmented, outer layers of your skin, dermaplaning can reveal the more evenly pigmented skin below. In this way, it can help reduce the appearance of age spots and sun spots. Some patients also have dermaplaning performed over their pigmented acne scars.
After a dermaplaning session, your skin will feel smooth and hairless. This can make it easier to apply makeup. In fact, some people have their face dermaplaned a week or two before a big event as it allows for more flawless makeup application.
Dermaplaning can also help guard against clogged pores and acne breakouts in the weeks following treatment. A lot of clogged pores and acne lesions begin forming when dead skin cells block your pores. Dermabrasion can remove these skin cells before they find their way into pores. If you struggle with adult acne, talk with a practitioner about making dermplaning sessions a regular part of your routine. This tends to work well for patients with milder acne and mostly blackheads.
What Happens During a Dermaplaning Session
There’s no true preparation required before a dermaplaning session. However, you will want to avoid using any products that could irritate your skin in the days leading up to treatment. Leave those harsh masks and exfoliating scrubs for another time!
When you arrive at the medical spa for your dermaplaning treatment, your practitioner will begin by gently cleansing your face. Once your face is dry, they’ll slowly begin moving the scalpel over your face. They’ll hold it at a 45-degree angle to prevent accidental nicks and cuts. While your practitioner is working, you’ll feel a scraping sensation similar to the sensation you’d feel if you were to shave your face with a razor.
Dermaplaning is not painful, although some patients do feel some itching and mild irritation at times. Even if you have your whole face treated, the procedure should take less than an hour. When your practitioner is done, they’ll typically apply a lush moisturizer to your face. This will nourish your skin and help you develop that dewy, glowing look even sooner.
Recovery and Results
There is no true recovery time from dermaplaning. Your skin may be a little pink and sensitive for a day or two, but these symptoms dissipate quickly. You will need to avoid harsh cleansers, creams, and serums for a few days post-treatment. Also stay out of the sun, as you’ll be especially prone to sunburn with the outer layers of your skin having been removed so recently.
The immediate effects of dermaplaning – the glowing look and increased skin suppleness – tend to last a few weeks. Other benefits, such as the reduction in acne lesions, can last even longer. For the best results, consider scheduling routine dermaplaning sessions. Your practitioner can look over your skin, discuss your goals, and tell you how often you should come in for treatment.
If your skin looks dull or discolored, or if you have some dark scars you’d like to diminish, it’s time to consider a dermaplaning treatment. Contact Balance MedSpa to schedule a consultation with our expert dermatologist, Dr. Judge. As a family-owned practice, we always put our patients’ needs first, and we can design a specialized treatment plan just for you.
