Is Dermaplaning The Same As Shaving?

Facial hair, we all have it. But sometimes, hair growth in humans can be complex and influenced by different factors. While it is not uncommon for men to have facial hair, women are not big fans. Fortunately, there are a myriad of ways to get rid of that unwanted peach fuzz. Yet we are not pleased. From razors to wax strips, we have done it all. Wax can leave your skin overly sensitive and red while razors can spread skin infections. We need something that can de-fuzz our face without having any major side effects and leave our skin feeling ultra-smooth. Dermaplaning is a skin rejuvenation treatment that uses an exfoliating scalpel to remove dead skin and facial hair, leaving you with a clean canvas. Want to learn more about dermaplaning? Let’s get into it!

What Is Dermaplaning?

Dermaplaning is a cosmetic procedure in which the skin is exfoliated using a small scalpel which scrapes off dead skin buildup and vellus hair. The outer layer of the skin is removed using a sharp no. 10 surgical blade. Dermaplaning usually takes about 30 to 40 minutes and is either done independently or paired with a dermaplane facial customized as per the patient’s skin concerns.

The Dos and Don’ts Of Dermaplaining

Dermaplaining requires some pre and post-treatment care. Your aesthetician would provide you with a list of guidelines that need to be followed in order to avoid skin damage. They are:

• Manual or chemical exfoliation is to be avoided prior to treatment.
  Use of any harsh skincare product is prohibited after treatment.
  Aftercare serums and moisturizers are to be used.
• Stay away from chlorine and swimming pools right after the procedure.
• Wear a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher sunscreen when going outdoors.
• Avoid makeup for at least 24 hours post-treatment.

Dermaplaning vs. Face Shaving

Generally considered as a face shaving counterpart, dermaplaning is actually different from traditional shaving. We enlist the main differences below:

• The most basic difference between the two is that shaving uses razors while a dermaplane treatment is done using small scalpels.
• Face shaving is the temporary removal of hair while dermaplaning not just removes hair but also dead skin and debris from the outer layer.
• A shaving blade is set at a 35-degree angle and a surgical dermaplane blade is held at a 45-degree angle.
• While dermaplaning soothes out the skin and makes makeup application super smooth, razors tend to leave rashes and bumps on the face.
• When combined with a dermaplane facial, the procedure gives you a brighter complexion. On the other hand, shaving does not have any effect on your complexion.

The Takeaway

Though similar in concept, dermaplaning and face shaving have their own contrariety. As long as you don’t have any major skin issues, dermaplaning is much safer and more beneficial to remove unwanted facial hair. Point to note: Dermaplane treatment is not something you can DIY. It requires the expertise of a practitioner, as without proper technique you can easily cut your skin which can lead to severe infections.