I’ve done some crazy things in the name of beauty – honestly, I once ironed my hair with an actual iron – so when I heard that dermaplaning uses a surgical scalpel to scrape away the layer of dead cells and peach-fuzz facial hairs at your skin’s surface I was more eager than ever. I headed to Dermrefine to try it out for myself – here’s everything I wish I’d known beforehand.
By Beth Ludolf
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1 It doesn't hurt at all
I was prepared for an hour of pain – the word ‘scalpel’ doesn’t exactly conjure images of blissful comfort and besides, beauty is pain, right? I was wrong. Think of how shaving any other part of your body feels; it’s basically like that but the skin is completely dry so it can feel a little scratchy.
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2 You might not see results immediately
It depends on your skin but it took me a couple of days to properly see the glow. Immediately after the treatment, my skin was a little bit red and tender (it felt like a mild sunburn). Dermaplaning can also dry skin out initially, so make sure to keep it moisturised.
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3 Your makeup will look better than ever
Once my skin had settled it became the perfect base to makeup. My foundation looked bright and dewy (the dream) and powder, which normally emphasises my texture, completely smoothed my skin.
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4 SPF is non-negotiable
Yes, even if it's winter. While we’re all definitely wearing SPF every day anyway (right?), this is seriously important after dermaplaning. Removing the top layer of dead cells leaves your skin even more susceptible to sun damage – AKA aging.
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5 Your hair definitely won't grow back darker
We’ve all heard the old wives tale that if you shave your hair it will grow back thicker and darker – well, it’s not true, the blunt end makes hair feel thicker but we promise, it's not. Peach fuzz is so fine and soft it doesn't have the same stubbly feeling anyway. Phew.
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FAQs
Does dermaplaning hurt when you get it done?
Dermaplaning does not hurt at all. The sensation is similar to shaving, but because your skin is completely dry, it can feel a little scratchy rather than painful. There is no lasting discomfort during the treatment.
How soon will you see results after dermaplaning?
It can take a couple of days to properly see the glow from dermaplaning. Immediately after the treatment, your skin might be a bit red and feel tender, similar to a mild sunburn. Keeping your skin moisturised can help manage initial dryness.
Will facial hair grow back darker after dermaplaning?
Your hair definitely won’t grow back darker after dermaplaning. The blunt end of shaved hair can make it feel thicker, but peach fuzz is so fine and soft it will not become stubbly or change colour. This is a common myth, but it’s not true.
Why do you need to wear SPF after dermaplaning?
Wearing SPF is essential after dermaplaning because your skin is more prone to sun damage. Removing the top layer of dead cells makes your skin even more susceptible to UV rays, increasing the risk of premature aging. SPF should be worn every day, regardless of the season.
How does dermaplaning affect your makeup application?
Dermaplaning creates a smoother surface, making your makeup look better than ever. Foundation appears brighter and dewier, while powder glides on more evenly and reduces the appearance of skin texture. Once your skin settles, it becomes an ideal base for makeup.