Is DIY Dermaplaning Safe? A Dermatologist Weighs In

When it comes to popular beauty treatments, dermaplaning is somewhat of an anomaly: it's a form of exfoliation that involves shaving your face. Still, you can find it listed as a service by most facialists and aestheticians, but for the times when getting to a spa isn't an option, you might be wondering if you can still get the same smooth results of the treatment from the comfort of your home. The answer, to put it simply, is yes.

"Dermaplaning uses a scalpel blade used by an aesthetician to physically exfoliate dead skin cells and fine hairs or peach fuzz to improve skin texture," said dermatologist Sonia Badreshia-Bansal, MD. The main thing that separates an at-home dermaplaning treatment from one that would normally be performed in office are the tools.

As Badreshia-Bansal notes, in-office treatments are more aggressive because of the use of a more rounded scalpel blade that you might have a harder time finding on your own. There are dermaplaning devices like Dermaflash that you can use to DIY, but no matter what you choose, it's best to use a gentler razor than what you'd see from a professional. Badreshia-Bansal recommends a small, single-bladed razor that's less harsh on the skin and makes it easier for you to avoid "traumatizing and nicking the skin." She also recommends shaving with the grain if you're less experienced, since shaving with it can increase the risk of skin injury.

Speaking of skin injury, if you're thinking of trying this at home, just make sure to be mindful of the condition that your skin is already in. "Do not treat open sores, active breakouts, or inflammation as these areas are sensitive and can cause more irritation or even infection," she said. "Be gentle; avoid nicking the skin or causing micro injuries."

In the event that your skin is already irritated or sensitive, consider continuing to exfoliate with physical or chemical exfoliants and at-home chemical peels, as Badreshia-Bansal says they'll likely do a better job in improving skin texture. If your sole reason for dermaplaning is getting rid of peach fuzz, she recommends using electrical instruments that can gently remove fine hairs.