Taking a scalpel to your face to get rid of peach fuzz and dead cells – what could go wrong? Well, when you put it like that, probably quite a lot! BUT only when certain things are not adhered to.
If dermaplaning is done (1) the wrong way, (2) by the wrong people or (3) on the wrong type of skin, it can lead to more bad than good!
So what about those dermaplaning horror stories? Are they normal side effects or are they actual dermaplaning horror stories? Here’s what you need to know!
Breakouts after dermaplaning
Common but not normal.
Post-facial breakouts is a common dermaplaning horror story – so much so that people shrug it off as a normal side effect. But news flash: It isn’t!
Now, breakouts after dermaplaning can happen for a few reasons:
- Active acne. Professionals know that dermaplaning should NOT be performed on anyone with active acne, as it may cut the pimple, spread acne-causing bacteria and cause further breakouts. In short: Dermaplaning is not the suitable facial for active acne!
- Unhyienic or improper techniques. If your skin therapist used an unclean scalpel or did not perform the facial properly, an acne breakout can definitely happen. So let this be your reminder to NEVER perform dermaplaning on your own and to only trust a PROFESSIONAL!
- Aftercare. With your fresh, clean face after a dermaplaning facial, your skin is more absorbent and prone to external impurities. For example: the wrong skincare products, unclean hands, dust and dirt, etc. So let this be your reminder to follow aftercare instructions!
All that said, if you’re experiencing a breakout after dermaplaning, it’s probably time to look for a more experienced skin therapist – someone you can trust to (1) know the safe, proper technique, (2) give you the best aftercare tips, and (3) recommend if dermaplaning is suitable facial for your skin.
Skin irritation after dermaplaning
Normal, to a certain degree.
Because dermaplaning is an exfoliation treatment that removes dead skin cells, it is normal for skin to feel sensitive afterwards. You may temporarily experience signs of irritation like itchiness or dryness, but this should disappear after a few days.
Redness after dermaplaning
Normal, to a certain degree.
Similarly, redness after dermaplaning may be another sign of sensitivity. Again, this is temporary and should last only a few days!
If redness does persist or leads to breakouts, you may want to consult with your skin therapist.
Scars or spots after dermaplaning
NOT normal.
In relation to active acne, spots or scarring after dermaplaning can mean that a pimple was cut in the process, sometimes leading to discolouration or wounds.
In that case, we advise you to visit a new skin clinic with more credible professionals who know what they’re doing.
Cuts or bumps after dermaplaning
Normal, to a certain degree.
Minor cuts after dermaplaning may be expected, especially for people with uneven skin texture. However, with an experienced skin therapist, cuts should be barely noticeable and should heal properly without any scars or marks!
Who should NOT get dermaplaning
Now, given all these side effects, if you have any of the following, it’s best to skip dermaplaning altogether and ask your skin therapist for a better facial!
- Those with active acne or breakouts
- Those with sensitive skin
- Those with sunburn
All that said, if you’re one of the lucky ones able to try a dermaplaning facial, we definitely recommend it! It will leave you with smooth, glowing, hair-free skin – as well as treating a whole host of concerns such as dullness, dryness, wrinkles and scars.
Before you try it out, keep these FOUR TIPS in mind and you’ll never become a victim of those dermaplaning horror stories!
Avoid dermaplaning with certain skin conditions
Dermaplaning is not always the answer.
If you have acne, for example, there’s a good chance the blade will nick a pimple (or several), which will not only cause pain but also take longer to heal.
In fact, any sensitive skin condition – such as inflammation or rosacea – may be worsened by the treatment.
You may also want to stay away if you have a history of cold sores, as they may spread due to the microtears in the skin.
If you suffer from acne or clogged pores, microdermabrasion or peel treatments may be a better option for you.
Book microdermabrasion here
Book a chemical peel here
Combine dermaplaning with other treatments
One of the best things about this treatment is that it literally leaves you with a brand-new canvas, thanks to the opening of pores and removal of the superficial layer of dead skin.
What this means is that there is no longer any barrier preventing your skincare products from fully penetrating your face afterwards. And because it can come with some side effects, such as redness, indulging in a facial afterwards will not only mitigate any potential discomfort but also ensure that your skin is soaking up all the nutrient-rich products to the max, too! Prolonging the results of a dermaplaning treatment in this way will leave you with a smooth, pain-free, glowing face.
Don’t neglect aftercare
Dermaplaning must never be taken as the kind of thing you can just do in isolation. Yes, it can bring about unbelievable results, but only when done as part of an overall skincare routine.
Here are important aftercare tips you should do following your treatment:
- Be sun savvy. As your skin will be more sensitive following the treatment, you should really avoid sun exposure both before and after to minimise the pain and prevent pigmentation. If you do go outside, make sure you’re adequately coated with SPF of minimum 30 – whatever the weather! You can read more about the benefits of this here and here.
- Avoid excessive heat. It’s not just the sun that can cause problems; steam rooms, saunas and heavy gym sessions, for example, should also be put on the back burner until your skin has fully healed.
- Indulge in nutrient-rich products. Your skin will never be as prepped as it is now to soak up products, so make sure you’re treating it to a whole lot of moisture and vitamins. Be careful not to use anything with harsh ingredients.
- Choose mineral makeup. Any makeup is best avoided for 24 hours after treatment, but for 48 hours both pre and post treatment stick to mineral-based products.
- Keep to a simple skincare routine. You should prioritise a gentle cleanser and lightweight moisturiser for two weeks after treatment, always using cool water. You shouldn’t exfoliate for four days, either, or use any products containing any exfoliating agents, and always pat skin dry instead of rubbing it.
- Don’t wax for seven days. But if you feel like you need to, you should probably ask for your money back anyway!
Trust the professionals
We probably sound like a broken record right now but we will never tire of stressing this point: PROFESSIONAL DERMAPLANING FACIALS, ALWAYS.
Remember, it does involve taking a scalpel to the face – never something you should do yourself! This is what is meant by “dermaplaning done wrong”; not only are the risks significantly greater (cuts and scars), the blades available to you are never going to be as sharp – or effective – as those used by a highly trained professional, in a salon such as ours!
We’ve all heard of a dermaplaning horror story but don’t let this deter you; in the right hands, and with the right care, the only regret you’ll have is that you didn’t do it sooner!
Book a dermaplaning facial today!
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