Dermaplaning, a Temporary Touch Up

What is Dermaplaning?

Dermaplaning is a cosmetic treatment in which dead skin cells and peach fuzz are scraped off with a scalpel. It’s a form of physical exfoliation. While dermaplaning removes fine facial hairs, the procedure differs from shaving in terms of the tools used and the amount of skin removed. This process reveals a smoother, brighter complexion hiding underneath, giving you that fresh, glowing look. Many people find it beneficial because it’s non-invasive, painless, and requires no downtime. Also known as “female face shaving,” dermaplaning has some benefits: It can brighten the skin, fade dark spots and soften fine lines and wrinkles.

Dermaplaning primarily targets fine vellus hair, commonly referred to as peach fuzz. This type of hair is usually light in color and texture, and it covers most areas of the face. Vellus hair plays a role in regulating body temperature and providing a slight cushioning effect, but its primary function is believed to be related to sensory perception. While vellus hair is present on both men and women, its density and distribution can vary depending on factors like genetics and hormonal changes. In cosmetic procedures like dermaplaning, vellus hair is often targeted for removal to promote smoother skin texture and enhance the effectiveness of skincare products.

Dermaplaning effectively removes this fine hair along with dead skin cells, leaving the skin smoother and brighter. However, a key fact is that dermaplaning is not designed for removing coarse or thick hair, such as the type typically found on the scalp or in the beard area. For permanent removal of thicker hair, procedures like electrolysis are more appropriate.

Do You Need Dermaplaning, Electrolysis, or Both?

Dermaplaning and electrolysis are completely different procedures, so let’s review the use cases for each.

Who can benefit from dermaplaning?

• Those with Peach Fuzz or Vellus Hair: Dermaplaning effectively removes peach fuzz or vellus hair from the surface of the skin, leaving it feeling smoother and softer. This can also create a smoother canvas for makeup application, making it popular among those who wear makeup regularly.
• Those with Dull Skin: Dermaplaning effectively removes the top layer of dead skin cells, revealing a brighter, more radiant complexion underneath. If your skin looks dull or lacks luster, dermaplaning can help restore its natural glow.
• Individuals with Uneven Texture: If you struggle with rough or uneven skin texture, dermaplaning can help smooth out the surface by eliminating rough patches and bumps. This can result in a softer and more even skin texture.
• Sensitive Skin Types: Since dermaplaning is a non-invasive and gentle exfoliation method, it’s suitable for individuals with sensitive skin who may not tolerate other forms of exfoliation well. It doesn’t involve harsh chemicals or abrasive particles, making it less likely to cause irritation.

Who can benefit from electrolysis?

• Women with Unwanted Facial Hair: Many women struggle with unwanted facial hair, including on the upper lip, chin, cheeks, and jawline. Electrolysis provides a permanent solution for removing this hair, helping women achieve smoother, hair-free skin and boosting confidence.
• Men with Excessive Body Hair: Men may seek electrolysis to address excessive hair growth on areas such as the back, chest, shoulders, and neck. Electrolysis can effectively target and permanently remove coarse and dense hair, providing a long-term solution for managing unwanted body hair.
• Individuals with Ingrown Hairs: Ingrown hairs can be a persistent problem for people of all genders, particularly in areas like the bikini line, underarms, and beard area. Electrolysis can help eliminate ingrown hairs by permanently destroying the hair follicles, preventing future ingrown hair formation and reducing inflammation and irritation.
• People with Hormonal Imbalances: Hormonal imbalances, such PCOS, can lead to increased hair growth in unwanted areas. Electrolysis offers a permanent solution for managing hormonal hair growth on the face, body, and even sensitive areas like the breasts.
• Individuals with Specific Hair Colors: Unlike some other hair removal methods like laser hair removal, electrolysis is effective on all hair colors, including blonde, red, gray, and white hair. This makes it a suitable option for individuals with lighter hair colors who may not see results with other hair removal techniques.
• Those Seeking Precision Hair Removal: Electrolysis allows for precise targeting of individual hair follicles, making it ideal for shaping eyebrows, removing stray hairs along the bikini line, or achieving a clean, defined look in areas like the upper lip or chin.