Dermaplaning has become the go-to treatment for estheticians and makeup artists for its immediate visible results. If you've seen pictures of the process, the images of a razor scraping back a layer of skin might seem shocking, but it will leave you with a fresh complexion. The treatment has even become so popular that those who don't want to shell out the $150 to $300 per session, at-home dermaplaning can be done with adequate tools.

Here L’OFFICIEL breaks down what you should know about this skin treatment method so you can give it a try.

What is Dermaplaning?

Dermaplaning, also known as face shaving or blading, is a skin treatment where the top layers of the skin are carefully removed from the face, enhancing a bright, smooth, and overall radiant complexion.

Benefits

Aside from eliminating facial hair, dermaplaning will help you remove dead skin cells by exfoliating and shaving them away. This allows for serums and other skincare products to be absorbed effectively. A dermaplaning procedure conducted by a professional in the field can also aid with removing fine lines, wrinkles, and acne scars. Facial skin shaving will leave your complexion feeling fresh, smooth, and ultra-soft.

Because dermaplaning removes the top layer of the skin and peach fuzz, you can rest assured it will not change the appearance of your future facial hair.

Tools

When attempting this procedure at home it is very important you do it with the appropriate razor or dermaplaning tool. Look for the thin individual blades in your local drugstore, beauty store, or supermarket. Do not use a normal razor as the blades can permanently damage your skin. The single blades allow for more precision. If you are nervous about using a blade, there are also tools like the Dermaflash which can help you gently exfoliate and remove peach fuzz.

How-To

With a clean face, grab your dermaplaning tool and without applying too much pressure, start by gently scraping over your skin at a 45-degree angle. You’ll rapidly notice how the thin face hair accumulates on the blade. Simply grab a paper or cotton ball and remove the excess hair for the closest shave. Remember to always clean your razor after every use.

Side Effects & Risks

Although the process should not be painful, there is always a chance your skin might be too sensitive for the blades and you should not rule out the possibility of a mild irritation occurring during or after. Always avoid applying skincare products containing acids and retinoids immediately after as they can be too harsh for the newly exposed layer of skin. Lastly, dermaplaning is not recommended for people with active acne or other skin conditions as it can irritate affected skin.