For years, women like me (I’m Italian-American and facially furry) were warned not to shave our faces. If we did, we’d sprout darker, thicker hair — essentially, if a razor even grazed our fuzzy cheeks, we’d instantly grow more hirsute. But all that has changed in the past few years as dermaplaning, a type of precision shaving with a sharp, single blade, has become increasingly popular in mainstream beauty circles. It’s a frequently requested treatment in dermatologists’ offices and a TikTok trend worldwide.
“Dermaplaning is a popular non-invasive cosmetic treatment that involves gently exfoliating the skin’s surface using a sterile surgical scalpel,” says Dr. Dara Spearman, a board-certified dermatologist and the founder of Radiant Dermatology Associates. Spearman and other experts believe that shaving your face with a dermaplaning tool is generally safe and, with proper technique, can even be a serious boon to your skin’s health.
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What are the benefits of dermaplaning?
According to Spearman, there are myriad benefits to dermaplaning that extend beyond a smooth shave. “One of the most noticeable immediate benefits … is the improvement in skin texture and brightness,” she says. “Makeup applies more evenly, and skin-care products absorb more effectively since the barrier of dead cells has been removed.” Over time, Spearman says, consistent dermaplaning can soften the appearance of acne scars and rough patches, contributing to a more youthful-looking complexion.
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“While dermaplaning does not directly erase wrinkles, it supports anti-aging efforts by enhancing the absorption and effectiveness of active skin-care ingredients like retinol and peptides,” she adds. “This boost in product performance, coupled with increased cell turnover, can lead to improvements in fine lines, tone and firmness with regular treatments.”
Are there risks associated with dermaplaning?
Though dermaplaning will not make your hair grow back thicker, darker or coarser (“It does not affect the growth of hair follicles,” Spearman says), it can make your skin more susceptible to irritation and, potentially, more serious issues depending on your skin tone and type.
“Some individuals may experience temporary redness or irritation following the procedure, and those with active acne, rosacea or extremely sensitive skin may not be ideal candidates,” Spearman says. “There’s also a small chance of nicks or scratches if the treatment isn’t performed correctly, especially in DIY attempts.” Additionally, she says freshly exfoliated skin is at higher risk of damage from sun exposure, so proper sun protection is essential after any type of dermaplaning.
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This standout mineral sunscreen with zinc oxide is exceptionally good for dry, sensitive or mature skin and is packed with ingredients like hyaluronic acid to keep your face looking dewy post-shave. It’s both a mineral and chemical SPF, so the texture feels smooth going on, and it is absorbed fast. It’s also noncomedogenic (it won’t clog pores) and fragrance- and oil-free.
Related: The best sunscreens for your face in 2025, recommended by dermatologists
The best way to dermaplane
There are two types of dermaplaning — at home and professionally guided, most often in a dermatologist’s office. Pros like Spearman prefer the latter, which utilizes a sharper blade and involves a skin expert who can customize the treatment to your specific needs. Plus, she warns: “At-home dermaplaning puts you at a higher risk of irritation, infection, ingrown hairs, uneven results and the possibility of cutting and scarring the skin.”
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If you’re going to attempt dermaplaning at home, experts say the following guidelines will help protect your skin:
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Stop using physical or chemical exfoliants at least three days before dermaplaning
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Cleanse your face thoroughly before you begin shaving
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Start with a fresh, clean razor
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Shave in short, light strokes, going with the grain of your hair and staying away from acne or pre-existing cuts or sores
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Apply a gentle, noncomedogenic moisturizer after treatment
If you have issues like rosacea, extremely sensitive skin or questions about whether dermaplaning will work for you, it’s best to consult with a doctor before diving in — a good idea before attempting any new skin-care techniques.
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Cetaphil’s dermatologist-approved moisturizer is formulated to improve the resilience of sensitive skin. It’s made with the brand’s HydroSensitiv Complex, a combination of hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, vitamin B5, and vitamin E — a solid checklist of nourishing ingredients that can be especially soothing post-shaving.
It also contains blue daisy extract — a pretty, flower-bearing plant with antioxidant benefits that can help with redness and discomfort.
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