A doctor performing dermaplaning service on a shirtless patient's back

The skin serves a vital role in protecting the body from harmful invaders. The health of the skin also plays a critical role in one’s outward physical appearance, influencing one’s confidence and self-esteem. However, environmental stressors can damage the top layers of the skin’s surface, causing skin to appear aged and dull.

This is why North Shore Med Spa of Long Island offers a procedure called dermaplaning. After a single session of dermaplaning, you’ll notice smooth skin that’s more vibrant and youthful.

What Is Dermaplaning?

Dermaplaning is a skin treatment offered by a licensed esthetician. It involves using a medical-grade scalpel or other dermaplaning tool to gently remove the cells in the top layer of the skin. This careful scraping method can also remove the soft, fine hairs of the face, which are sometimes referred to as “peach fuzz.”

What Conditions Can Dermaplaning Improve?

Dermaplaning can help improve a number of conditions by gently removing dead or damaged skin cells. This technique can treat or improve certain skin conditions that may be otherwise difficult to improve, including:

  • Scarring from past acne lesions
  • Dry or dull skin
  • UV-damaged skin
  • Fine lines and wrinkles
  • Peach fuzz

Many patients find that after a dermaplaning treatment, their skin has a vibrant, healthy glow that can last for weeks. Because dermaplaning can also remove facial hair, it can make makeup easier to apply and it can make topical skin treatments more effective, as well. However, it’s important to note that dermaplaning should not be used in an area where there is an active acne flare or viral skin condition, as it can impede healing or even spread an infection.

How To Determine if Dermaplaning Is an Appropriate Therapy

To assess whether a dermaplaning treatment may be beneficial, a certified esthetician will first examine the skin of the face. They will evaluate the health status of the skin, the level of moisture, the level of damage to surface skin cells, and the amount of hair growth on the face. This will help them decide if a dermaplaning procedure may be beneficial. They will also evaluate acne scars or fine lines and recommend treatments based on the appearance of these specific conditions.

Although there is no specific prep required, some experts do recommend making sure the skin is as clean as possible before a treatment. Other experts recommend refraining from smoking for at least a couple of weeks in order to ensure maximal skin health and results.

How To Prepare for a Dermaplaning Session

No specific preparation is needed before a dermaplaning treatment. The treatment is noninvasive and typically does not require any anesthesia. There is no downtime, and a person may resume normal activities immediately.

Is There Any Aftercare Needed After Treatments?

After a dermaplaning treatment, an esthetician will apply a moisturizing barrier to the skin. It is important to continue to perform good aftercare of the skin following a dermaplaning treatment, including applying sunscreen, as the skin may be especially sensitive to environmental stressors such as UV radiation. After a treatment, the skin may appear slightly red or irritated for a few days, however this is typically mild.

Dermaplaning can provide an immediate boost to the smoothness and appearance of facial skin. To learn more about dermaplaning at North Shore Med Spa, or for information about Long Island Vein Treatment, make sure to contact our experts today.