It’s different from dermabrasion, where an aesthetician or doctor uses a high-speed, rotating brush to exfoliate the skin. With dermaplaning, they use a scalpel or a tool called a dermatome. The doctor or aesthetician moves the dermatome, which looks like an electric razor, back and forth to scrape off the top layer of dead skin.

Benefits of Dermaplaning

The exfoliation and hair removal can leave your skin brighter and smoother. The treatment may soften fine lines and wrinkles and ease hyperpigmentation, or uneven skin tone. It’s also used to treat deep acne scars. How well it works really depends on your skin type, tone, and medical history.

Risks and Side Effects

Most people have little to no irritation or reaction. Short-term side effects may include:

• Red and swollen skin from the scraping
• Soreness
• A burning or tingling sensation for about 48 hours after the procedure

Dermaplaning isn’t recommended if you have inflammatory skin conditions such as:

• Acne
• Rosacea
• Psoriasis
• Eczema
• Sunburn