Dermaplaning is a popular exfoliation treatment that involves using a sterile surgical scalpel to gently scrape off the top layer of dead skin cells and peach fuzz from the face. While this procedure can leave your skin glowing, soft, and smooth, proper aftercare is essential to maximize the benefits and prevent complications like irritation or breakouts. Unfortunately, many people make mistakes after dermaplaning, which can hinder their results or even damage their skin.
In this detailed guide, we’ll dive into dermaplaning aftercare, highlighting the seven most common mistakes people make and how to avoid them. By the end of this article, you’ll know how to properly care for your skin after a dermaplaning session, ensuring that you get the most out of the treatment and keep your skin looking healthy and radiant.
Mistake 1: Skipping Sunscreen
One of the most common and critical mistakes after dermaplaning is neglecting to apply sunscreen. After dermaplaning, your skin is more sensitive to the sun because the top protective layer has been removed. This makes your skin more prone to damage from UV rays, leading to sunburn, hyperpigmentation, and premature aging.
Why it’s a problem: Failing to protect your skin from UV exposure can undo the positive effects of dermaplaning and even result in lasting skin damage. Sun exposure can lead to dark spots, uneven skin tone, and increase your risk of skin cancer.
Solution: Immediately after dermaplaning, it’s essential to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Reapply every two hours if you’re outdoors, and even if you’re indoors, don’t skip it—UV rays can penetrate windows. In addition, avoid direct sun exposure, especially in the first 48 hours after the procedure. Wear a wide-brimmed hat and seek shade when possible.
Mistake 2: Using Harsh Skincare Products
After dermaplaning, your skin is more vulnerable and delicate. Using harsh skincare products, such as those containing retinoids, alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), or other strong exfoliants, can cause irritation, redness, and peeling.
Why it’s a problem: Applying these potent ingredients immediately after dermaplaning can compromise your skin barrier, leading to inflammation and discomfort. The skin needs time to heal and recover from the procedure, so using aggressive treatments can be too much for it to handle.
Solution: Stick to gentle, hydrating, and soothing skincare products for the first 48–72 hours after dermaplaning. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, and glycerin, which help to hydrate and calm the skin. Avoid any products with active ingredients like retinol, glycolic acid, salicylic acid, or physical exfoliants until your skin has fully recovered. Once your skin is back to normal, you can gradually reintroduce your regular routine.
Mistake 3: Touching Your Face Too Much
Dermaplaning leaves your skin feeling incredibly smooth, which can make it tempting to constantly touch your face. However, this is a mistake that can lead to clogged pores, irritation, and even breakouts.
Why it’s a problem: After dermaplaning, your skin is more vulnerable to bacteria and dirt from your hands. Touching your face frequently can transfer oils, bacteria, and impurities, increasing the risk of breakouts and irritation.
Solution: Resist the urge to touch your face after dermaplaning. If you must touch your skin, make sure your hands are thoroughly clean. It’s also a good idea to avoid using makeup brushes or sponges that haven’t been cleaned recently, as they can harbor bacteria. Clean your pillowcases, towels, and other surfaces that come into contact with your skin to reduce the risk of infection.
Mistake 4: Applying Makeup Too Soon
While dermaplaning is known for making makeup application smoother and more flawless, it’s crucial to give your skin time to recover before applying any cosmetics. Applying makeup too soon after the procedure can lead to clogged pores and irritation.
Why it’s a problem: Your skin’s barrier is temporarily weakened after dermaplaning, and applying makeup right away can trap bacteria and irritate freshly exfoliated skin. This can result in breakouts, clogged pores, and uneven texture, defeating the purpose of the treatment.
Solution: Allow your skin to rest for at least 24 hours before applying makeup. During this time, focus on keeping your skin hydrated and protected with soothing skincare products and sunscreen. When you do start wearing makeup again, opt for non-comedogenic, mineral-based products that won’t clog your pores. Make sure to thoroughly clean your makeup brushes before use to avoid introducing bacteria to your skin.
Mistake 5: Over-Exfoliating
Dermaplaning is a form of exfoliation, and it’s important to remember that your skin has already been thoroughly exfoliated during the treatment. Many people make the mistake of using additional exfoliating products or treatments in the days following dermaplaning, which can lead to over-exfoliation and skin damage.
Why it’s a problem: Over-exfoliating strips the skin of its natural oils, disrupts the skin barrier, and can cause dryness, irritation, redness, and even microtears in the skin. This can make your skin more sensitive to environmental aggressors, leading to further damage and discomfort.
Solution: Avoid any form of exfoliation for at least a week after dermaplaning. This includes physical exfoliants like scrubs, as well as chemical exfoliants like AHAs and BHAs. Focus on hydrating and nourishing your skin with gentle cleansers, moisturizers, and serums. Once your skin has fully healed, you can slowly reintroduce exfoliating products, but always monitor how your skin responds.
Mistake 6: Skipping Moisturizer
After dermaplaning, your skin may feel hydrated and smooth, but it still requires moisture to maintain its barrier function and promote healing. Skipping your moisturizer can leave your skin dry, tight, and prone to irritation.
Why it’s a problem: Dermaplaning can temporarily disrupt your skin’s natural moisture balance. Failing to moisturize after the procedure can cause dryness, flakiness, and discomfort. It can also lead to an overproduction of oil as your skin tries to compensate for the lack of moisture, potentially causing breakouts.
Solution: Moisturize your skin immediately after dermaplaning with a rich, hydrating moisturizer. Look for products that contain ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and glycerin, which help to replenish and lock in moisture. Apply the moisturizer morning and night to keep your skin soft, supple, and protected. If you have oily skin, opt for a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer that won’t clog your pores.
Mistake 7: Not Staying Hydrated
What you do internally is just as important as what you apply externally. After dermaplaning, it’s essential to keep your body and skin hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Many people overlook this simple but critical step in their aftercare routine.
Why it’s a problem: Dehydration can lead to dry, dull skin, making it harder for your skin to recover after dermaplaning. Without proper hydration, your skin may become flaky or tight, and the glow you achieved from the treatment may quickly fade.
Solution: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out. Aim for at least 8 glasses of water a day, but you may need more if you’re in a hot climate or exercising. Eating water-rich foods like cucumbers, watermelon, and oranges can also help boost your hydration levels. Additionally, use a hydrating facial mist or serum to keep your skin moisturized during the day.
Conclusion
In conclusion, dermaplaning is a fantastic exfoliation treatment that can leave your skin feeling smooth, soft, and glowing. However, proper aftercare is essential to ensure you get the most out of your treatment and avoid potential complications. By avoiding the common mistakes outlined in this guide—such as skipping sunscreen, using harsh skincare products, touching your face too much, applying makeup too soon, over-exfoliating, neglecting moisturizer, and not staying hydrated—you can protect your skin and prolong the benefits of dermaplaning.
Following these simple aftercare tips will help your skin heal effectively, maintain its radiant glow, and stay healthy. Remember, your skin is more sensitive after dermaplaning, so treat it with care, prioritize hydration, and always shield it from the sun. With the right post-treatment routine, you’ll enjoy smooth, luminous skin that looks its best.
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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.
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