If you are like me and watch way too many social media videos on pimple popping, makeup tips and peels, then you’ve also seen the magic of dermaplaning. Due to the rise in social media and popularity of everything beauty, dermaplaning is the talk of the industry and has become one of the top spa services today.
Log in to view the full article
If you are like me and watch way too many social media videos on pimple popping, makeup tips and peels, then you’ve also seen the magic of dermaplaning. Due to the rise in social media and popularity of everything beauty, dermaplaning is the talk of the industry and has become one of the top spa services today.
Your location and state cosmetology board will determine who can perform this service. Dermaplaning was previously only offered at medical spas for a long time, but it has now taken over the entire spa industry, from day spas to destination resorts.
Dermaplane FAQs
I’ve seen dermaplaning evolve into its own unique protocol in combination with many different modalities. It can be the first step of physical exfoliation, using a blade to remove dead skin cells and vellus hair, or peach fuzz, leaving skin looking brighter and softer. The process may sound scary to some, but if done properly, it’s quick, painless and very effective with no downtime.
What makes it so popular is the skin’s immediate, visible change after the service. The complexion looks brighter, smoother and younger. The process allows skin to breath without all the congestion, which improves tone and texture. Makeup goes on evenly, as the skin’s flawless look is the perfect canvas.
Let’s address some of the most asked questions about dermaplaning. First, dermaplaning is not the same as shaving. Although they are similar, the blade used for dermaplaning is very sharp. The treatment must be performed by a licensed professional trained and certified by a reputable company. Shaving the skin only removes the peach fuzz, and the dull blade can irritate the skin.
Another common concern is whether the hair will grow back thicker afterward. Dermaplaning will not result in thicker hair growth or darker hair grow. The procedure does not pull the hair follicle, but rather cuts the vellus hair off with some dead skin cells.
The reason people may think their hair feels thicker is that most of them don’t realize that they have always lived with facial hair. A lot of my clients believe that they have no peach fuzz at the start of the appointment, and they are surprised and amused when I show them the 4x4 filled with their vellus hair and dead cells after treatment!
Related: The Skincare Benefits of Dermaplaning
Skin Contraindications
Dermaplaning is safe for most people, but there are contraindications. It’s important to have a detailed consultation about the client’s history of previous procedures and medications. Some of the most common contraindications are acne, rosacea and medications that cause sensitivity, like Accutane.
It is important to examine the condition of the skin to determine if you can dermaplane on a client. If they have moles or skin tags, this treatment will be challenging because the sharp blade will cut anything that is raised. For these types of guests, it’s safer to offer an alternative service that will benefit them in a similar way.
As spa professionals and estheticians, we wear a tool belt with many different modalities such as peels, microdermabrasion, high frequency, microcurrent, LED therapy and so much more. So, even if a client is not a candidate for dermaplaning, you can always choose a modality that works well for them.
There are a few important safety factors to remember in your dermaplaning practice. First and foremost, understand that dermaplaning is a deep exfoliation. Most people think the service removes the vellus hair only, however the overall purpose is for the deep exfoliation that also removes dead skin cells.
The practitioner must have the proper training with the right certification course. It’s also key that they use a butter blade that is sharp and designed for dermaplaning. Remember to prep the skin well and heal it right after dermaplaning. You can calm and hydrate the complexion with a cooling mask or LED, which will support the healing process.
Send guests home with good after care such as masks, serums, moisturizers and SPF. Remind them to layer on their sunblock and wear a hat when going outside, and let them know that it’s best to avoid heat, saunas and pools for at least 24 hours after treatment. Then, you and your guests will be ready to go. Happy dermaplaning!
Sonny Park-Kim, BA, LME, is the corporate educator for DermaplanePro and owner of SparkAesthetics, a business dedicated to supporting spa professionals with consulting, training, education and mentoring.
