Dermaplaning 101

A lowdown of everything you need to know about this skin-smoothing treatment

What is a dermaplaning facial?

Dermaplaning facials are the globally popular skincare treatment that is the secret to flawless, radiant, and youthful skin. Popular amongst celebrities, it’s an effective treatment which leaves the skin softer and smoother while also providing a deep exfoliation and giving an instant glow. The process is done by a dermatologist or licensed medical aesthetician who gently scrapes the surface of the skin with a surgical scalpel to remove the build-up of dead skin cells and fine hair, or ‘peach fuzz’, instantly revealing brighter and smoother skin with a luminous glow.

How does it work?

Dermaplaning facials take off most of the outermost layer of your skin, regulating certain growth factors. This stimulates collagen production which, in turn, plumps skin and minimises wrinkles. Dermaplaning has proven to be one of the best beauty treatments to help with a host of persistent skin issues. At Biolite, the following steps are followed:

1.        The first step includes a gentle cleansing of the face with an oil-based cleanser (try our Biolite Pore-clearing Cleanser).
2.        Thereafter, the skin is patted dry with a clean paper towel.
3.        The third step is to apply argan oil to the face which allows the blade to glide smoothly.
4.        The treatment itself starts by the therapist working on the jawline area first all the way up to the forehead.
5.        A warm towel is placed after the treatment to remove excess debris.
6.        As the final step, some moisturiser (try the Biolite Aqua-fluid) and sunscreen (Biolite Solar Defense SPF 30) is applied on the face to keep it hydrated.

What are the benefits of a dermaplaning facial?

• Smoother skin

With dermaplaning, you can expect to see smoother skin that also feels baby soft, has zero peach fuzz and a slightly brighter complexion. It helps with lightening the scars and preventing your skin from looking and feeling dull. Some of the most important benefits of this treatment are dewy skin, faster cell turnover, and smoother texture.

• Better product absorption

Potent ingredients and formulations are key to maintaining the efficacy of your skincare routine. When you have dead skin cells on your face, products cannot be absorbed as easily, if at all. When they are removed, skincare products will penetrate into the skin more effectively. Dermaplaning—as a non-invasive treatment—is much gentler on the skin, compared to topical exfoliators or scrubs, which can cause additional irritation and redness on top of acne. With treatment serums and skincare products penetrating deeper, an ideal canvas is created for a flawless makeup application.

• Unclogs pores and hair follicles

Acne-causing bacteria thrive on dead-skin cells. A build-up of dead-skin cells can clog your pores and hair follicles, resulting to increased breakouts. Deep exfoliation—which is provided by dermaplaning—has the dual benefit of both limiting the number of dead-skin cells and minimising the amount of time they remain on the skin, resulting to excess sebum production. Both of these are key in causing acne. By stimulating skin-cell regeneration, exfoliation gets completely rid of the acne-causing bacteria.

• Reduces inflammation

Our facial skin is exposed to irritants, harsh substances and harmful sun rays on a daily basis. All of these, coupled with a hot climate, inevitably contribute to inflammation and flare-ups. Over time, the dead skin build-up can overwhelm the dermis and reflect on the skin appearing worn out and aged. It also helps with post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation which, if not treated, results in an uneven complexion.

Why you should opt for a dermaplaning facial

There are several myths surrounding this beauty treatment that are unsubstantiated. Contrary to popular belief, dermaplaning will not make your hair grow back thicker or darker. In fact, the texture of your hair remains the same as before. Granted, the idea of a scalpel on your face is daunting, but dermaplaning is actually one of the least painful hair removal methods and feels just like shaving. Moreover, dermaplaning as a treatment is appropriate for all ages and skin types since there are no harsh chemicals involved and it is a completely non-abrasive process. Celebrities swear by this treatment before red-carpet appearances as it is ideal for creating the perfect base for makeup and provides a glow from within. It is completely safe and hence, can be done as often as required.

The aftercare of a dermaplaning facial

After a dermaplaning facial, it is best to avoid direct exposure to sun and extreme heat for at least 3-4 days as your skin is still healing and sensitive. Thereafter, a high factor sunscreen (SPF 30+) is recommended for protection. It is important to follow a simple skin care routine post the treatment. Use a mild and gentle cleanser and avoid using any harsh exfoliators. It is best to use a rich hyaluronic acid mask, vitamin C serum, retinol, or moisturising cream to help repair your skin and keep it hydrated for the next few days. Using any kind of make-up immediately after the treatment is not recommended. The skin barrier is more vulnerable so it is best to allow the skin to breathe and settle down before applying any kind of makeup. Lastly, it is highly recommended to avoid any other facial treatments, derma fillers for at least two weeks after dermaplaning.

The Conclusion

Given the multiple benefits that dermaplaning has, it’s an ideal solution for keeping the skin hydrated, youthful and luminous. Do keep in mind that while it is possible to do the treatment at home, it is not recommended, as only a professional will be able to conduct it in a safe and thorough manner.