Flawless-looking skin is an endless and ever-expanding pursuit. And the latest buzzy process designed to help you glow? Dermaplaning, a simple method of exfoliation that removes peach fuzz, has anti-aging benefits, and reduces the appearance of scars and other imperfections.
While the dermaplaning procedure is nothing new—it's long been conducted by dermatologists and medispas—the at-home market is trending for its affordability and convenience. These days, all it takes is a dermaplaning tool—i.e. a special facial razor—and a little guidance to achieve the softest skin of your life.
Ahead, learn more about DIY dermaplaning, including the benefits, how to get started, and the planet-friendly tools you need to try it out yourself.
What Is Dermaplaning?
Dermaplaning is a procedure that gently removes the top layers of your skin—and all the peach fuzz that comes along with it—with the help of a facial razor. There are two different types of dermaplaning procedures; one that you can perform at home, the other that requires a visit to your dermatologist.
"You have the technique that’s performed at home with a facial razor that really targets shaving the face, and then you have the procedure that’s performed in a medical office with a scalpel or a sterile blade," says Dr. Sam Ellis, a Board Certified dermatologist based in Danville, California. "Both techniques exfoliate the skin and remove peach fuzz and unwanted thicker hairs from the face."
Ellis notes that professional treatments can go a little deeper, removing more than just the topmost layer. Those who opt for the professional in-office treatment typically get it done every 4 to 6 weeks.
"The tool most people use at home to do this is an eyebrow razor," says Ellis. "A multi-blade razor simply isn’t necessary when targeting ultra-fine hairs, and risks adding irritation without much treatment benefit."
The Benefits of Dermaplaning
According to the Cleveland Clinic, the minimally-invasive dermaplaning procedure has numerous benefits. It removes unwanted hair, reduces the appearance of acne scars, and can even make your skin appear to be more vibrant and youthful.
How? Simple: By removing the top layers of skin, you're revealing newer, undamaged skin. But while there are clearly plenty of perks to dermaplaning, the procedure isn't for everyone.
Is Dermaplaning Right for You?
It's possible to achieve baby-soft skin without incorporating dermaplaning into your routine: You can learn how to exfoliate skin naturally at home, using everything from oats to baking soda. But the dermaplaning process is a quick and viable option.
Dermaplaning works for all skin types, with the exception of skin compromised from infection, active acne, sunburns, rosacea, or psoriasis. If you're unsure if dermaplaning is right for you, ask a dermatologist before giving it a try.
How to Dermaplane at Home
If you're ready to give dermaplaning a try, here's the step-by-step instructions for how to dermaplane at home like a pro.
What You'll Need:
Dermaplaning tool
Light oil (optional)
Instructions:
1. Start by washing your face with your go-to face wash, making sure your skin is clean. Pat your skin dry.
2. Decide whether you want to go about the dermaplaning procedure with dry skin, or if you want to use oil. For those with sensitive skin, using a small amount of oil, like jojoba oil, may help the blade glide smoothly over the skin, reducing irritation.
3. Pull your skin taut. Start at the top of your cheekbone near your hairline and gently glide the dermaplaning tool downward toward your nose in short strokes, keeping the razor at a 45-degree angle.
4. Continue this motion, repeating as you make your way down across your entire cheek and jaw.
5. Continue this process on your chin, above your lips, and on your forehead, always continuing to hold the tool at a 45-degree angle.
6. Apply a hydrating serum or moisturizer and proceed with the rest of your skincare routine.
7. Disinfect your dermaplaning tool so it's ready for its next use.
Shop Planet-Friendly Dermaplaning Tools for At-Home Use
Like other razors, typical dermaplaning tools can be wasteful. Many are single-use and plastic, meaning getting rid of unwanted facial hair—and reaping the aforementioned skincare benefits—can come at a cost to the planet. Instead, chose one of these eco-friendlier options that keep the environment in mind.
This professional-grade at-home dermaplaning tool is meant to be used over and over again, gving you smooth, fuzz-free skin. It features a reusable metal handle with a slip-free grip. It also uses stainless steel, single-edge blades, each of which lasts 3 to 4 uses.
2. Tweezerman Facial Razor, $16
This fuss-free reusable stainless steel facial razor is durable, sanitary, and easy to clean. Simply replace the blades every two to three months and you're good to go.
This dermaplaning tool features a "virtually indestructible aluminum handle" meant to last for life and a surgical steel replaceable blade. No plastic in sight. The handle was designed to have the perfect weight for blade control, and each blade is designed to last four uses.
4. Rout 'Adios, Peach Fuzz' Set, $39
This Latina-owned company kept the environment in mind when creating this dermaplaning tool. The packaging is 100% recyclable, and post-consumer recycled plastic is used in the product. The core is made out of a durable alumina composite that can be used for years, and the Japanese blades are "perfectly sized for every corner of your face."
