Smoother, brighter skin is a goal for many people—and dermaplaning has quickly become a favorite treatment to help achieve it. With social media filled with videos of people using facial razors at home, it’s no surprise that more and more people are asking: Can you do dermaplaning yourself?
The short answer is yes—but with a few very important caveats. While it’s possible to do a light form of dermaplaning at home, professional treatment at a medical spa offers safer, more precise, and longer-lasting results.
At Glow Aesthetic Center, we specialize in professional dermaplaning treatments performed by board-certified practitioners who understand your skin’s unique needs. Below, we’ll break down how dermaplaning works, what the difference is between at-home and professional treatment, and what you should consider before trying to do it yourself.
What Is Dermaplaning?
Dermaplaning is a physical exfoliation treatment that uses a sterile, surgical-grade blade to gently remove dead skin cells and fine vellus hair (also known as peach fuzz) from the surface of the skin.
This non-invasive procedure helps to:
- Reveal brighter, smoother skin
- Improve the absorption of skincare products
- Soften the look of acne scars and fine lines
- Prep the skin for other treatments like chemical peels or microneedling
Think of it like giving your face a fresh start. By clearing away dull, dead skin, dermaplaning encourages better cell turnover and gives your complexion a healthy, youthful glow.
What Happens During a Professional Dermaplaning Treatment?
When you get dermaplaning at a medical spa like Glow Aesthetic Center, you’re treated by a board-certified practitioner using professional-grade tools in a controlled, sterile environment.
Here’s what a typical session looks like:
- Cleansing: Your skin is cleansed and dried thoroughly.
- Exfoliation: Using a sterile, medical-grade scalpel, your practitioner glides the blade at a precise angle to remove dead skin and peach fuzz with feather-light strokes.
- Hydration: After the exfoliation, your practitioner applies a rich moisturizer followed by SPF to protect your newly revealed skin.
The procedure is painless, quick (usually about 30 minutes), and doesn’t require any downtime. The result? Instantly smoother, more radiant skin.
Can You Do Dermaplaning at Home?
Technically, yes—you can purchase facial razors designed for home use. These are usually marketed as “dermaplaning tools,” and they’re more similar to eyebrow shapers or safety razors than the professional-grade surgical blades used in clinics.
Home dermaplaning can help remove surface peach fuzz and lightly exfoliate your skin, but there are several limitations and risks to keep in mind.
Key Differences Between At-Home and Professional Dermaplaning
| Professional Dermaplaning |
At-Home Dermaplaning |
| Uses surgical-grade scalpel |
Uses facial razor or safety blade |
| Performed by licensed practitioner |
Performed by the individual |
| Offers deeper exfoliation |
Provides light surface exfoliation |
| Can safely treat scars, rough skin, pigmentation |
Less effective on textured or uneven skin |
| Lower risk of irritation or injury |
Higher risk of nicks, breakouts, or uneven results |
| Often paired with other skin treatments |
Standalone procedure |
Pros and Cons of DIY Dermaplaning
Pros of At-Home Dermaplaning:
- Inexpensive
- Convenient
- Can offer mild exfoliation
- Helps with makeup application by removing peach fuzz
Cons of At-Home Dermaplaning:
- Tools aren’t as precise or sharp as professional ones
- Risk of cuts, irritation, or ingrown hairs
- Cannot treat deep acne scars or rough texture
- Easier to over-exfoliate or cause skin sensitivity
- Results typically don’t last as long
If you choose to try it at home, make sure to use clean tools, go slowly, and avoid active breakouts. Never use a dull razor, and always follow with moisturizer and sunscreen.
When Should You Avoid DIY Dermaplaning?
There are several situations where at-home dermaplaning is not recommended:
Active acne: You could spread bacteria or worsen inflammation.
Sensitive or reactive skin: Exfoliation might lead to irritation or redness.
Recent Botox or filler: Wait at least a week after injections.
Skin conditions like eczema, rosacea, or psoriasis: Dermaplaning may exacerbate symptoms.
In these cases, it’s best to speak with a skincare professional. At Glow Aesthetic Center, we tailor every dermaplaning session to suit your skin condition safely and effectively.
What Are the Benefits of Choosing a Professional Treatment?
Choosing a medical spa for dermaplaning ensures:
- Precision: A trained practitioner uses the right angle and pressure to safely exfoliate your skin.
- Safety: Treatments are done in a sterile setting, minimizing the risk of infection or irritation.
- Longer-lasting results: Deeper exfoliation leads to a smoother texture and brighter tone.
- Customization: Your treatment can be paired with a peel, facial, or mask based on your goals.
- No guesswork: You don’t have to worry about doing it wrong or damaging your skin.
Plus, you get the added benefit of expert aftercare and skincare advice—something you don’t get from an at-home razor.
What Should You Expect After Dermaplaning?
After your dermaplaning treatment at Glow, you’ll notice:
- A soft, smooth surface
- Brighter, more radiant skin
- Better absorption of moisturizers and serums
- More even makeup application
Your skin might feel slightly sensitive or pink for a few hours, but most people go about their day immediately afterward.
To keep your results looking their best:
- Apply SPF daily (your skin will be more sensitive to sunlight)
- Avoid harsh scrubs or exfoliants for a few days
- Stay hydrated and moisturize regularly
Treatments can be done monthly to maintain a consistent glow.
Final Thoughts
While at-home dermaplaning can offer mild exfoliation, it simply doesn’t compare to the precision, safety, and results of professional treatment.
If you’re serious about getting smoother, brighter skin—and doing it safely—it’s best to leave dermaplaning to trained practitioners like those at Glow Aesthetic Center. Our team knows how to handle all skin types and can combine treatments to give you a healthy, radiant glow that lasts.
If you’re curious about trying dermaplaning for the first time, we’d love to help. Our Encino office offers consultations where we’ll assess your skin and recommend the right treatment for your needs.
Ready to Reveal Radiant Skin?
Whether you’re considering dermaplaning for the first time or looking for a safer alternative to at-home razors, Glow Aesthetic Center in Encino is here to help. Our board-certified practitioners use proven techniques to deliver results you can see and feel.
Dermaplaning FAQs
Does dermaplaning make hair grow back thicker?
No. The fine vellus hair removed during dermaplaning grows back the same color and texture as before. It does not become darker or coarser.
Can I do dermaplaning at home with a regular razor?
You can use a facial razor designed for at-home use, but it won’t offer the same level of exfoliation or precision as professional dermaplaning. Never use a body razor or dull blade on your face.
Is at-home dermaplaning safe for sensitive skin?
It depends. Sensitive skin is more prone to redness and irritation. If you have reactive or allergy-prone skin, it’s safer to get dermaplaning done by a trained practitioner.
How often should I dermaplane?
For most people, professional dermaplaning once every 4–6 weeks is ideal. At-home dermaplaning may be done every 2–4 weeks, but it depends on your skin’s tolerance.
Can I combine dermaplaning with other treatments?
Yes. Dermaplaning pairs well with facials, peels, or serums since it helps other products penetrate deeper into the skin. Glow Aesthetic Center often combines dermaplaning with other treatments to maximize results.
What should I avoid after dermaplaning?
Avoid direct sun exposure, harsh skincare products, chlorine, and sweating for 24–48 hours after treatment. Always use SPF to protect your skin.
Does dermaplaning hurt?
No. Dermaplaning is painless. You may feel a light scraping sensation, but most people find it relaxing.
