Dermaplaning Might Be the Quickest Route to Smoother Skin

Planning a big event often comes with a hunt for skin treatments that deliver radiance without invasive procedures or an overhaul of skincare. Dermaplaning has become a popular option because it is quick, non-invasive and comparatively affordable.

“Dermaplaning is a procedure in which you take a scalpel, razor, or other sharp blade to remove the top layers of the skin,” explains board-certified dermatologist Dr Janiene Luke. “Short fine hairs (vellus hairs) are often removed, resulting in smoother skin. Technically, this can be considered a form of mechanical exfoliation, where dead skin cells are physically removed from the surface of the skin.”

According to dermatologist Dr Marisa Garschik, many skin types can benefit from carefully performed dermaplaning, especially those seeking a smoother makeup finish and a brighter look before a special occasion. People with active acne, inflamed skin or certain dermatologic conditions should check with a qualified clinician first.

A conservative schedule is to trial a session several months out to see how skin responds, then book the final treatment about 7–14 days before the event. This allows any mild redness to settle and gives skincare and makeup a smoother canvas.

What happens in a dermaplaning session

A typical appointment starts with a thorough cleanse to remove makeup and surface oils. The clinician then uses a sterile, fine blade held at roughly 45 degrees to make short, controlled strokes over the cheeks, forehead, jawline and around the brows, nose and mouth.

The blade does not pierce the skin. Most people feel light scraping or gentle tugging rather than pain.

Extra care is taken near delicate areas such as the under-eyes and the corners of the nose and lips. The pass removes built-up dead cells and vellus hair so skin looks smoother and makeup sits more evenly. Once the face is complete, a soothing moisturiser is applied and sunscreen is recommended before heading outdoors.

The treatment itself usually takes 15 to 30 minutes and there is no downtime. Aftercare is simple. Keep skincare gentle for two to three days, skip strong actives like retinoids or acids, and be strict with daily SPF.

Some clinics offer add-ons such as brief LED light therapy, but many people choose a no-frills approach in the lead-up to a special event to minimise cost and reduce the chance of irritation.

Dermaplaning benefits

According to Dr Garshick and Dr Luke, dermaplaning can:

• Lift away dead skin cells for a quick physical exfoliation
• Remove fine vellus hairs
• Brighten the complexion once that peach-fuzz is gone
• Help make-up glide on more evenly
• Improve the penetration of skincare applied afterwards

Dermaplaning downsides

“Dermaplaning may lead to irritation, sensitivity and redness, and there is a risk of scarring if not done properly. It can also worsen acne or rosacea, so avoid it during flare-ups and use caution if your skin is reactive,” says Dr Garschik.

Dr Luke, adds a safety note: “Using unfamiliar tools increases the chance of cutting too deeply, which may scar.”

Cost is another consideration. Professional treatments can be expensive, especially when clinics add extras such as LED light therapy or peels.

Dermaplaning and mature skin: Is it safe?

Dermaplaning can be performed at any age. For those 50+, skin is often drier and more sensitive, so proceed with care. As cell turnover slows with age, gentle mechanical exfoliation may help restore radiance and improve make-up glide. Avoid treatment during active eczema, rosacea flares or acne, and seek a clinician who uses sterile, single-use blades.

Can you dermaplane at home?

It’s technically possible, but specialists generally advise professional treatment to minimise the risks of cuts, infection and scarring. If you choose to DIY, keep it conservative.

Use a clean, single-use blade, work on dry skin with light pressure, avoid active breakouts, moles and sunburn, and stop if you feel tugging or heat. Follow with a bland moisturiser and daily SPF, and skip retinoids or strong acids for 48–72 hours.

The bottom line

Dermaplaning offers instant smoothness, peach-fuzz removal and a brighter finish, and may help skincare absorb more evenly. Downsides include irritation, sensitivity and a small risk of scarring if technique or hygiene is poor. It’s best avoided during acne or rosacea flares, if you have a bleeding disorder or are on blood thinners, or if your skin is very reactive.

For most people, a professional session every 4–6 weeks with careful aftercare—gentle cleanser, moisturiser and strict sun protection—delivers the benefits while keeping risks low.