Dermaplaning is a skin treatment that uses a surgical scalpel or another blade to gently scrape off the top layer of dead skin cells and fine vellus hairs on the face. It leaves skin feeling smooth and can help skincare products absorb better. Many people get dermaplaning regularly as part of their skincare regimen and are happy with the results. However, like any cosmetic procedure, there are potential risks and some people do experience dermaplaning regret after getting the treatment. Understanding the possible side effects and downsides can help you decide if dermaplaning is right for your skin.
Why People Get Dermaplaning
Several benefits attract people to dermaplaning:
Exfoliation – It removes dead skin cells, revealing brighter, fresher skin underneath. This can minimize the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, acne scars, and hyperpigmentation.
Smoother skin – The removal of peach fuzz leaves skin with an ultra-smooth appearance. Makeup glides on easily over the smooth surface.
Product absorption – Peach fuzz can prevent skincare products from fully absorbing. Getting rid of it allows serums, creams, and SPF to penetrate better.
Quick treatment – Dermaplaning treatments only take about 30-45 minutes. There is no downtime afterward. You can immediately return to your normal activities.
Hair removal – Dermaplaning prevents the fine hairs on the face from trapping dirt and oil. Removing them gives the skin a more youthful appearance. The hair grows back finer and lighter.
While these benefits sound extremely appealing, dermaplaning has some downsides people may later regret.
The Risks and Side Effects of Dermaplaning
Dermaplaning is considered a safe procedure when performed properly on the right candidates. However, there are some risks such as:
Skin irritation – Some people may experience mild redness, dryness, flaking, or breakouts after dermaplaning. This typically goes away within a few days.
Ingrown hairs – Hair removal can lead to ingrown hairs, especially for those prone to them. Avoid dermaplaning if you get ingrown easily.
Scarring – If too much pressure is applied, dermaplaning can cause nicks, cuts, or scarring. Going to an experienced esthetician reduces this risk.
Hair regrowth – For some, the hair grows back within 1-3 weeks. Frequent dermaplaning is needed to maintain smooth results. The constant hair removal can be a nuisance.
Skin damage – In unqualified hands, improperly sterilized tools could transfer bacteria leading to infection. Aggressive scraping can thin and damage the skin.
While most side effects are minor and temporary, darker skin tones are at higher risk for pigmentation issues and scarring. Dermaplaning is not well suited for those with extremely sensitive skin prone to redness. If you scar easily, it’s better to avoid this treatment.
Why People Experience Dermaplaning Regret
When performed correctly on suitable candidates, most people do not experience any lasting dermaplaning regret. However, there are some common reasons people later wish they had not gotten dermaplaning:
Bad reaction – Some people’s skin reacts poorly to dermaplaning. If it causes extreme redness, breakouts, irritation, or hair regrowth problems, the downsides may outweigh the benefits for you.
Scarring – Nicks and scars that occur during the treatment can be permanent. Scarring risks increase if you have a history of keloids or are prone to hyperpigmentation.
No noticeable difference – Dermaplaning results are subtle. Those expecting a dramatic transformation may be disappointed with the change. Managed expectations are key.
Time and cost – Some regret the ongoing time and expense needed to maintain smooth results. The cost of frequent in-office treatments adds up.
Grow-out period – After stopping dermaplaning, allowing the hair to grow out can be frustrating. It may feel like losing the positive effects.
Dependency – Getting dermaplaning consistently can lead some to feel dependent, making it hard to stop. This psychological reliance turns into regret.
If you experience any of these downsides, you may come to regret your decision to get dermaplaning treatments. Being fully informed beforehand helps avoid disappointment later.
Who Should Avoid Dermaplaning?
While many skin types can benefit from dermaplaning, some people may want to exercise caution or avoid it:
Sensitive skin – Those with easily irritated skin or conditions like rosacea and eczema are at higher risk for dermaplaning reactions.
Acne – Existing acne or breakout-prone skin could worsen due to the exfoliation. Hormonal acne sufferers in particular should use caution.
Darker skin tones – Increased risk of discoloration, hyperpigmentation, and scarring makes dermaplaning inadvisable for some. Consult a dermatologist first.
Thin skin – Aged patients or those using retinoids have thinner skin that dermaplaning could damage.
Blood thinning medications – Anticoagulants like warfarin make you more prone to bleeding and bruising complications.
Keloids – Those with a history of keloid
scarring have a heightened risk of permanent scarring from dermaplaning nicks.
Unrealistic expectations – People assuming dermaplaning will completely transform their appearance may end up disappointed.
If any of the above apply to you, have an in-depth discussion with your esthetician before considering dermaplaning. And remember – less is more when it comes to exfoliating thin or sensitive skin.
How to Reduce Dermaplaning Regret
While derma planning carries some risks, there are steps you can take to minimize regret:
Find an experienced esthetician – Have the treatment done only by a qualified professional to reduce the risk of complications.
Do a patch test – Trying dermaplaning on a small area first checks for any negative reactions before treating the whole face.
Avoid overly aggressive treatments – Opt for fewer passes with the blade and avoid dermaplaning the same area repeatedly to prevent thinning the skin.
Properly prep and care for skin – Follow your esthetician’s recommendations for using retinoids, AHAs, and moisturizers to optimize treatment results.
By carefully considering if dermaplaning is right for you, finding an esthetician you trust, and not overdoing treatments, you can
maximize the skin benefits while minimizing regret down the road.
In Conclusion
Dermaplaning can give skin an ultra-smooth appearance and allow skincare products to absorb better. However, there are risks like irritation, scarring, and hair regrowth that some people later regret. Avoiding dermaplaning if you have sensitive or acne-prone skin reduces the chances of complications. Managing expectations and budgeting properly helps prevent disappointment. Working with an experienced esthetician and not over-exfoliating your skin also minimizes regret. While dermaplaning has some risks, for many people the potential rewards are worth it. Being fully informed allows you to make the best choice for your skin.