Dermaplaning Aftercare: Do’s and Don’ts Post-Treatment

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Dermaplaning is a non-invasive exfoliation treatment that uses a surgical scalpel to gently scrape away dead skin cells and vellus hair (peach fuzz), revealing smoother, brighter skin. Dermaplaning is a favourite for its instant glow and ability to enhance skincare product absorption.

Proper aftercare is crucial to protect your freshly treated skin, minimize irritation, and maximize those radiant results.

1. What to Expect After Dermaplaning

Your skin will feel incredibly smooth and look radiant immediately after dermaplaning, as the treatment removes the outer layer of dead skin and fine hair. To better understand the process and what it involves, you can refer to our Dermaplaning Session guide. However, it may also feel sensitive or slightly tender due to the exfoliation process.

Common Post-Treatment Reactions

  • Smoothness: Your skin will feel baby-soft, and makeup will glide on effortlessly.
  • Mild Redness: A pinkish hue may appear but typically fades within hours.
  • Tightness: Your skin might feel slightly taut, signalling the need for hydration.
  • Increased Sensitivity: The absence of the outer skin layer can make your skin more reactive to products or sunlight.

If you experience anything beyond mild symptoms, such as persistent redness or irritation, please reach out to your skincare professional. Knowing what’s normal helps you care for your skin confidently.

2. Do’s: Essential Aftercare Tips

Taking care of your skin post-dermaplaning is all about nurturing and protecting it. Here are the essential steps to maintain healthy and glowing skin.

a. Keep Skin Hydrated

Hydration is your skin’s best friend after dermaplaning. A gentle, hydrating moisturizer helps restore the skin barrier and prevents dryness.

Look for products with hyaluronic acid to lock in moisture or ceramides to strengthen the skin’s protective layer. Apply moisturizer in the morning and evening, and reapply as needed if your skin feels dry or tight.

b. Use a Gentle Cleanser

Your skin is more vulnerable after treatment, so stick to a mild, fragrance-free, and non-foaming cleanser. Harsh ingredients like salicylic or glycolic acid can irritate freshly dermaplaned skin.

Cleanse gently twice daily to remove impurities without stripping natural oils. Pat your skin dry with a clean towel—never rub!

c. Apply Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen

Sun protection is non-negotiable after dermaplaning, as your skin is more susceptible to UV damage. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every morning.

Reapply every two hours if you’re outdoors, and consider a mineral-based formula with zinc oxide for extra gentleness. A good sunscreen helps protect your glow and prevents hyperpigmentation.

d. Avoid Touching Your Face

Your hands carry bacteria and oils that can irritate or infect your freshly treated skin. Resist the urge to touch your face unless you’re applying skincare products with clean hands.

This simple habit reduces the risk of breakouts or irritation, keeping your skin calm and clear. Be mindful, especially in public spaces!

e. Let Skin Breathe

Give your skin a break from heavy makeup for 24–48 hours post-treatment. This allows your skin to recover without clogging pores or causing irritation.

If you must wear makeup, opt for mineral-based products that are less likely to irritate your skin. A light-tinted moisturizer with SPF can be a great choice.

3. Don’ts: What to Avoid After Dermaplaning

Avoiding certain products and habits is just as important as following the do’s. Here’s what to steer clear of to protect your skin.

a. Don’t Use Exfoliants or Harsh Products

Your skin has already been exfoliated, so skip scrubs, AHAs (like glycolic acid), BHAs (like salicylic acid), and retinol for at least 3–5 days. These can cause stinging or irritation.

Wait until your skin barrier is fully restored before reintroducing active ingredients. Patience here prevents discomfort and promotes healing.

b. Avoid Heat and Sweating

Heat can exacerbate sensitivity and redness, so it’s best to avoid saunas, hot showers, or intense workouts for 24–48 hours. Sweat can also irritate your skin or clog pores.

Opt for lukewarm water when cleansing and stick to light activities like walking. Keeping your skin cool aids recovery.

c. Don’t Pick or Scratch the Skin

It might be tempting to touch or pick at your skin, but this can lead to microtears, infections, or even scarring. Treat your skin like delicate silk post-treatment.

If you notice flaking or peeling, resist the urge to scratch; instead, hydrate. Your skin will thank you for the gentle approach.

d. Don’t Skip Sunscreen

Skipping Sunscreen is a big no-no, as dermaplaned skin is highly photosensitive. UV exposure can lead to burns, dark spots, or prolonged redness.

Make Sunscreen a daily habit, rain or shine, to protect your investment in that flawless glow. No excuses—SPF is your skin’s shield!

e. Avoid Waxing or Other Hair Removal Treatments

Your skin needs time to recover, so avoid waxing, threading, or other hair removal methods on treated areas for 5–7 days. These can cause irritation or damage.

If hair regrowth bothers you, wait until your skin is less sensitive before scheduling your next hair removal session. Timing is everything.

4. Recommended Skincare Routine Post-Dermaplaning

A simple, gentle skincare routine helps your skin recover and maintain that dermaplaning glow. Here’s a sample routine to follow for the first few days.

Morning Routine

  • Cleanse: Use a gentle, non-foaming cleanser to refresh your skin without stripping moisture.
  • Hydrating Serum: Apply a serum with hyaluronic acid to boost hydration and plump the skin.
  • Moisturizer: Lock in moisture with a lightweight, ceramide-rich moisturizer.
  • Sunscreen: Finish with a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ to protect against UV rays.

Evening Routine

  • Cleanse: Gently remove impurities with the same mild cleanser.
  • Hydrating Serum: Reapply your hydrating serum to soothe and repair your skin.
  • Moisturizer: Use a slightly richer moisturizer at night to support overnight recovery.
  • Optional Soothing Mask: Apply a hydrating mask once or twice a week for extra TLC.

Stick to this routine for at least 3–5 days before slowly reintroducing active ingredients. Consistency is key to maintaining healthy, radiant skin.

5. When to Call Your Skincare Professional

Most dermaplaning sessions go smoothly, but it’s important to know when to seek professional advice. Contact your esthetician if you notice concerning symptoms.

Signs of Adverse Reactions

  • Persistent Redness: If redness lasts more than 24 hours, it could indicate irritation.
  • Rash or Itching: These may signal an allergic reaction or sensitivity.
  • Breakouts: Unusual acne could mean your skin is reacting to a product or bacteria.
  • Pain or Burning: Mild tingling is normal, but ongoing discomfort isn’t.

Follow-up appointments are a great way to assess your skin’s progress and plan future treatments. Your skincare professional can tailor advice to your unique needs.

6. How Often Should You Get Dermaplaning?

Dermaplaning is typically recommended every 3–4 weeks, as this aligns with your skin’s natural cell turnover cycle. Regular treatments maintain smoothness and clarity.

Proper aftercare enhances long-term results by maintaining your skin’s health between sessions. Stick to the do’s and don’ts to make each treatment count.

Factors such as skin type, concerns (e.g., acne, dullness), and lifestyle may influence the frequency. Consult your esthetician to create a personalized schedule.

Conclusion

Dermaplaning delivers a radiant, smooth complexion, but the real magic happens with proper aftercare. By following these dos and don’ts, you’ll protect your skin and extend that post-treatment glow.

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