What is Dermaplaning?
Dermaplaning, also known as blading or microplaning, is a painless skin treatment used to remove dead skin cells and hair from your face using an exfoliating blade. The aim of treatment is to make your skin smooth, radiant, and youthful.
Indication of Dermaplaning
The dermaplaning procedure may be used for people of any skin type for the treatment of:
- Acne scars
- Dull skin
- Dry skin
- Sun-damaged skin
- Fine wrinkles
Preparation of Dermaplaning
Before dermaplaning, the doctor will enquire about your medical history. Your skin type and tone will be discussed as well as the results you desire. You will need to avoid direct sun exposure in the week prior to your appointment, as sun damage or sunburn, could compromise your skin and make the treatment painful.
Procedure for Dermaplaning
- You will recline in a chair in the treatment room.
- You may be given a sedative depending on the treatment and your overall condition. Numbing spray or topical anaesthesia is often used to keep you comfortable.
- The doctor will use an electronic or manual dermaplaning tool to scrape over your skin at a 45-degree angle. This continues for about 20 to 30 minutes as your doctor gently works to exfoliate the skin.
- Once the procedure is completed, aloe or a similar substance will be used to soothe your skin. You may also have sunscreen applied on your face to protect it from the sun.
Post-operative Care
- Your skin may appear red for 2-3 days post-procedure.
- You may notice that your skin looks brighter immediately after the dermaplaning treatment, but it often takes a few days to appreciate the full results.
- You must protect your skin from the sun until your skin is completely healed by avoiding direct exposure to the sun and using sunscreen as necessary.
Side effects of Dermaplaning
Side effects of dermaplaning include:
- Slight redness
- Formation of whiteheads on the skin one or two days after the treatment
- Infection
- Scarring
- Active acne
- Extreme skin sensitivity
- Open wounds or raised lesions
