Pros and cons of dermaplaning for acne-prone skin Americans need to weigh these pros and cons in their mind before making a dermaplaning appointment.
It’s no wonder that so many people are obsessed with dermaplaning! By shaving off all the dead skin and peach fuzz, it provides a luminous glow and appearance of smooth skin. Almost everyone with acne-prone skin will notice immediate glow and makeup application becomes seamless afterward.
However, scraping the skin with a sharp tool may occasionally result in micro-abrasions. It may spread bacteria and can worsen breakouts for some individuals. Others say their skin becomes extremely red or painful afterward.
It’s no wonder that more and more spas and clinics in cities such as San Francisco have begun offering this treatment. Understanding the pros and cons allows you to choose what’s best for your skin! The following sections explain each of these in detail.
Key Takeaways
- Dermaplaning not only makes your skin look flawless, but it helps your products work better too! If you have acne-prone skin, in the US really consider your specific skin needs and talk to a board-certified dermatologist before undergoing the procedure.
- This procedure has the added advantage of smoothing out post-acne marks and providing a smooth canvas for makeup to glide on. Dermaplaning can increase irritation and spread bacteria if done on active breakouts or inflamed skin.
- That’s why professional dermaplaning on the face by a licensed esthetician is much smarter and safer. This makes you at a much lower risk of improper technique and potential complications.
- Do not dermaplane over active acne, open wounds, or very sensitive areas. Failing to do so opens the door to infection, folliculitis, and over-exfoliation.
- Aftercare should focus on gentle cleansing, hydration, and strict sun protection to support recovery and prevent damage to newly exfoliated skin.
- Allow sufficient intervals between treatments to gauge your skin’s reaction, allowing for a more customized treatment plan that focuses on your skin’s safety and reduces the likelihood of negative side effects.
Dermaplaning: The Bare Essentials
Dermaplaning is a cosmetic procedure that takes off dead skin cells and fine facial hair, using a sterile surgical scalpel. This technique provides a mild yet effective exfoliation, resulting in a more even skin texture. Consumers in cities such as San Francisco are clamoring for dermaplaning to get that instantly brighter skin.
Most importantly, it’s important to have the procedure done by a trained professional. Proper technique and sterile tools should always be employed to mitigate potential hazards.
More Than Just Peach Fuzz
Dermaplaning is effective for vellus hair—commonly known as “peach fuzz”—and dead skin. By removing these, you instantly polish the skin while making it super soft! Without the fuzz, makeup glides on easily without the fear of streaking from the hair.
This dual action is what has made dermaplaning a favorite among skincare enthusiasts. It just gives your face an overall cleaner appearance! This is good news for anyone who wants a smooth, polished look for the office or a night out.
How The Blade Gently Exfoliates
The technique involves a female cut, a blade glided across the skin at precisely 45 degrees. This blade grabs dead cells and peach fuzz on the first stroke. That little scrape action encourages skin to turnover fresh new cells.
It’s all about a delicate touch! In the right hands, it’s appropriate for most skin types just as long as the operator is well trained in the technique. The trick is using a very sharp and clean razor—anything else risks causing your skin a nasty cut or introducing harmful bacteria.
What It Aims to Achieve
The primary objectives are a more refined surface texture and improved product penetration. It can take a tired complexion to radiant and create a smooth canvas for makeup application. Others notice a fading of deep acne scars and more subtle imperfections.
After, a physical broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+) and moisturizer to keep the skin calm and protected are key.
Acne & Dermaplaning: A Risky Romance?
Combining acne treatments with dermaplaning raises some serious issues. Removing the top layer of skin with something like a dermaplaning procedure may seem like a slam dunk for glowing, smooth skin. Yet for a subset of those developing acne, the risks and rewards become more complicated.
Every skin type reacts differently, and what works for one skin type may not work for another. It is easy to see the appeal: dermaplaning promises to clean up texture, help makeup go on smooth, and, for some, fade the look of old scars. However, for individuals with acne, the risk-benefit analysis is less cut and dry.
The Big Question for Blemish Prone Skin
Unfortunately there is no easy answer. Patients with mild, non-inflamed acne may experience smoother skin following dermaplaning. For others, particularly those who present with red, swollen breakouts, the skin actually worsens.
The takeaway is that the myth that dermaplaning is universally beneficial for acne-prone skin is false. Personal skin history, sensitivity, and current flare-ups are all important considerations.
Can It Actually Help Acne?
Many think that dermaplaning reduces the appearance of scars and rough patches. It does, on occasion, improve texture, even tone, and leave skin feeling purged. Ankrom says there are anecdotal reports of texture improvement from patients with mild acne.
While one person might find a treatment approach soothing and effective, another person may experience an acne flare or increased redness. As you can see, the real-world results are a mixed bag.
Or Does It Make Breakouts Worse?
For those suffering from acne, dermaplaning could spell even more aggravation. If you have active pimples, the blade is more likely to cut or nick the skin. This increases the risk of infection or scarring.
When done improperly or too aggressively, the skin can be left with a raw, irritated appearance. This is why dermaplaning is usually not recommended when you have open acne lesions.
Why Your Acne Type Matters Here
Not all acne is created equal. It’s possible that mild blackheads or clogged pores can manage dermaplaning without complications. However, inflamed, cystic acne can be aggravated with the lightest of scrapes.
The treatment might irritate underlying conditions such as rosacea or eczema. Whatever type of acne you have, it’s best to get informed and consult with a dermatologist beforehand.
Potential Wins: Dermaplaning Perks
Dermaplaning is a great option for anyone who has acne-prone skin. It smooths texture, supports long-term skin health, and helps products and makeup apply and wear better on the complexion. The speedy, relatively inexpensive procedure typically lasts around 30 minutes.
It exfoliates the skin by removing a layer of dead skin cells and vellus hairs, making way for a new, smoother, brighter complexion immediately! Many urban professionals in places like San Francisco opt for regular sessions every 3 to 4 weeks, finding it fits into busy routines with little fuss.
Hello, Smoother Skin Texture
Immediately following dermaplaning, the skin will be noticeably smoother to the touch. This is due to the removal of the top layer debris and vellus hair. The result is that fine lines and superficial wrinkles all appear less pronounced, and skin tone usually appears more uniform.
This finished appearance has everyone from celebrities to everyday people alike as happy as a clam about their skin. It’s a pretty big change that you can really feel with your fingers.
Skincare Soaks In Better
Since it removes the barrier of dead skin cells, dermaplaning helps serums and moisturizers absorb better. This dermaplaning perk makes skincare products more effective.
Moisturization and nourishment now penetrate to layers that were previously hindered. Once your client has had an exfoliating dermaplaning session, applying a variety of hydrating serums seals in moisture and gives skin a healthy glow.
Makeup Application Goals
Without the fuzz and flakes in the way, makeup goes on like a dream. Foundation is flawless, never heavy, and doesn’t crease into fine lines.
The outcome? A newfound confidence from a smoother complexion with a natural glow.
Fading Post-Acne Marks Faster?
Dermaplaning accelerates the disappearance of existing post-acne marks by initiating new skin cell turnover. Faithful skincare and patience are crucial though, as true results develop gradually.
A Brighter, More Even Tone
A brighter, more even tone skin appears brightened and rejuvenated. With continued maintenance sessions, you can reduce the appearance of spots and maintain the glow long-term.
Acne Woes: Dermaplaning Dangers
For acne-prone skin, dermaplaning introduces even more dangers that should be taken seriously. Being aware of these dangers before receiving treatment is essential. This is particularly dangerous in cities such as San Francisco, where it is easy to access both professional clinics and at-home tools.
Thousands of people undergo dermaplaning procedures in search of softer, silkier skin. If you don’t know what you’re doing or you’re getting your blades from Amazon, what’s intended as a quick fix can become a deepening dilemma. That’s because technique is crucially important.
Skin sensitivity, history of medication such as Accutane, and inflammatory breakouts all influence how skin will respond to the treatment of dermaplaning. A cavalier attitude is doing more damage than good.
1. Irritation: The Red Flag for Sensitive Skin
Individuals with sensitive and reactive skin may notice redness and itching following dermaplaning. Dermaplaning can cause burning or stinging even with a gentle touch.
Even if you do decide to dermaplane, it’s wise to see how your skin reacts to potential irritation before investing. At the first sign of irritation, pull back and choose gentler products, such as enzyme masks or gentle chemical exfoliants.
2. Spreading Bacteria: Pimple Party Pooper
Dermaplaning is not safe to do when there are open pimples on the face, as this can spread bacteria across the entire face. This increases the risk of future acne flare-ups or even infection.
The bottom line: Enjoy dermaplaning with care. Always use clean, fresh blades and avoid dermaplaning when you have active acne.
3. Active Breakouts: A Definite No-Go Zone
Working on skin that is currently affected by pimples risks causing increased swelling and redness. Rubbing over these areas can result in lacerations, scarring, or infection.
Instead, wait until your skin is clear and use salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide to treat acne.
4. Folliculitis Risk: Those Annoying Bumps
Occasionally, dermaplaning leads to ingrown hairs and itchy, painful bumps known as folliculitis. Proper aftercare—such as avoiding makeup and exfoliating scrubs for a few days—can go a long way.
Still, pay attention to any signs of irritation.
5. Over-Exfoliation: Stripping Your Skin
Excessive dermaplaning will damage your skin’s barrier, making it feel red and irritated. Avoid over-exfoliation, as stripping your skin is detrimental.
It’s important to space out treatments and allow your skin time to heal. Instead of adhering to a regimented schedule, listen to your skin and respond accordingly.
Think First: Dermaplaning Smart Steps
Before jumping into dermaplaning, it’s smart to pump the brakes and prepare. Diving in with no strategy can do more damage than help – particularly on acne-prone skin. With some careful prep, you’ll set yourself up to deliver the best experience and results possible.
Taking an honest view of your own skin protects against adverse effects. Every client’s skin is unique so it’s not something that’s one size fits all. Talking to a skin professional, like a licensed esthetician or dermatologist, can help address your concerns. They can guide you in choosing the appropriate smart steps toward your skin goals.
Assess Your Current Acne Situation
Start by taking a close look at your acne. Is it mild, moderate, or severe? This step matters because active breakouts or open sores can make dermaplaning more risky. Knowing your skin’s needs helps you and your provider pick how often to get treated—experts say every 3 to 4 weeks is common.
After dermaplaning, skin feels raw, so use gentle products and rehydrate well. Moisturizing each day for a couple of weeks helps protect your skin’s barrier.
Professional vs. At-Home: The Real Deal
Leaving dermaplaning to licensed professionals is a safer alternative to at-home procedures. Professionals understand how to work with challenging skin and reduce the risk of nicks, infection, or uneven outcomes.
Using at-home tools and improper technique could result in scarring or skin color change in areas. If you want to be happy with the results, do it with pros.
Patch Test: Your Skin’s Best Friend
Performing a patch test prior to the actual treatment can save you time and money. This test will help indicate if your skin may have an adverse reaction or become overly red or inflamed.
Monitor the patch area for at least 48 hours for burning or swelling.
When to Consult Your Dermatologist
Discuss with your dermatologist up front, particularly if your acne is more moderate to severe. They are familiar with your skin and can provide advice on how to properly care for it.
This protects you from potential dangers and allows you to select the best course of treatment.
Post-Dermaplaning: Nurturing Acne-Prone Skin
While dermaplaning is a great treatment, proper aftercare is essential to ensuring you’re maximizing results — and this is particularly true when caring for acne-prone skin. The treatment is great for removing hair and exfoliating the skin.
However, it can make the skin on the face more susceptible to dryness, irritation, redness and even infection. Careful, step-by-step aftercare makes all the difference in supporting skin’s natural recovery and preventing unfortunate setbacks, such as breakouts or long-term irritation. Prioritizing hydration, sun protection, and patience will help ensure your post-dermaplaning experience is as smooth as possible—literally!—and avoid the more unwanted results.
Gentle Cleansing and Soothing Hydration
Skin can be tight, itchy and red for up to 24-48 hours. Opting for a gentle, non-comedogenic, fragrance-free cleanser will remove impurities while preventing additional irritation.
No scrubbing or harsh exfoliants immediately post-treatment. Hydrating serums or lotions soothe the skin and restore moisture levels. Choose a moisturizer that has a short ingredient list and is free of known irritants.
Avoid harsh acne products, toners, or exfoliants for the first 48 hours to avoid irritation or potential post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Sunscreen: Your Non-Negotiable Shield
Sun protection is always essential, and ever more so after dermaplaning. This is because for several days of a fresh exfoliation, your skin is more susceptible to burning or discoloring.
Apply a non-comedogenic, broad-spectrum sunscreen every single day—including inside—to prevent harmful UV rays from darkening the skin or causing new dark spots to form. That’s right, reapply, reapply, reapply!
This is particularly crucial when you’re being active outdoors in cities such as San Francisco, where sun exposure can be harsh year-round.
Pausing Harsh Actives Temporarily
Retinoids and other acids may be too irritating immediately after dermaplaning. You’ll want to wait a minimum of two to three days before reintroducing them.
Allow the skin to repair its barrier before resuming. This pause allows us to avoid additional redness, irritation, and potential scarring.
Easing Back Into Your Acne Routine
After dermaplaning, it’s best to reintroduce your acne routine gradually. Keep an eye out for any signs of irritation.
Allow your skin to adapt—healthy outcomes are born of consistent maintenance, not haste. Routines that are consistent and gentle go a long way in creating stronger, healthier skin over time.
Conclusion
While dermaplaning is a tempting choice for an instant solution to the appearance of rough, dull skin, acne-prone skin tells a different tale. That smooth, peachy appearance is enticing, and yet as any dermaplaning expert knows, using blades incorrectly can cause acne flare-ups or leave skin inflamed and irritated. While many people notice improved skin texture with reduced flakiness and makeup application, other people end up with clogged pores or new irritation. San Francisco’s fog and city grime definitely challenge your skin! Pay attention, too, to pollution and dry air the day following a session, as dermaplaning can leave skin temporarily sensitized. If you have persistent breakouts, it’s best to consult with a skin professional before reaching for a blade. Looking to get that healthy glow? Get to know your skin, be inquisitive, and opt for treatments that heal within the context of your lifestyle. To get additional tech-savvy skincare advice, stay tuned and join the conversation right here on the blog.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is dermaplaning safe for acne-prone skin?
On the other hand, dermaplaning may be quite dangerous when it comes to treating active acne. It can introduce bacteria or cause trauma to existing breakouts. If you have acne-prone skin, always check with a licensed esthetician or dermatologist before undergoing it.
2. Can dermaplaning help with acne scars?
Can dermaplaning help with acne scars? This helps create the illusion of smoother, brighter skin by removing layers of dull, dead skin and fluffy peach fuzz.
3. Will dermaplaning make acne worse?
It can. However, if you have active breakouts, the dermaplaning procedure can irritate your skin or spread bacteria, causing your skin to break out even more. Don’t do it if you have active, inflamed pimples.
4. How often should I dermaplane if I have acne-prone skin?
Keep treatments to no more than every month, and only when you don’t have any active breakouts in the skin. If you go at it too much you risk irritating your skin and causing further breakouts.
5. What should I do after dermaplaning to avoid breakouts?
Avoid the sun for at least a week afterward, and keep skin clean and moisturized. Stay away from heavy makeup and products with harsh chemicals for at least one day. Listen to your skincare professional’s instructions.
6. Can I dermaplane at home if I have acne?
Home dermaplaning is not advised for acne-prone skin This is why using the wrong technique can aggravate your acne or give you dermaplaning cuts. Even if you choose to get dermaplaning done, always go to a trained professional.
7. Who should avoid dermaplaning?
Individuals with active acne, rosacea, or sensitive skin should not receive dermaplaning. While dermaplaning is better than many alternatives, it’s still not ideal for anyone with an inflamed skin condition. Smart beauty tip: Always consult a qualified professional before trying any new treatment.
Revitalize Your Skin With The Best Dermaplaning Treatment!
No other dermaplaning treatment compares to ours at Simply Skin Esthetics in downtown Walnut Creek, California. Why? We blend cutting-edge techniques, premium tools, and years of expertise to deliver smoother, brighter skin for even the most sensitive skin types – all with the highest standards of professionalism and hygiene.
Finding an esthetician who can perform dermaplaning with precision, care, and professionalism can be challenging. That’s why our service stands out as the best in the San Francisco East Bay Area. Our commitment to exceptional care is reflected in our loyal clientele who trust us with their skincare needs.
At Simply Skin Esthetics, we offer more than just dermaplaning. Our extensive range of services includes Ultrasound Facials, Signature Facials, Men’s Facials, Express Facials, Treatments/Peels, Teen Facials, and Back Facials. Ready to transform your skin and experience unparalleled care? Contact us today to schedule your first dermaplaning session and discover the Simply Skin Esthetics difference!
