Dermaplaning Myths, Answered
Which Treatment
Dermaplaning · myths
"Won't my peach fuzz grow back thicker?" It's the question we hear most often before a first dermaplaning visit at our Henderson studio. The short answer is no. But it's not the only myth that keeps people from trying it, or that leads them to try it at the wrong time.
Here are five we hear all the time, what the research and medical sources actually say, and how we approach each one as Licensed Advanced Estheticians.
Curious whether dermaplaning suits your skin?
01Myth 1: Hair grows back thicker or darker
This one is false. Mayo Clinic is clear that shaving hair "doesn't change its thickness, color or rate of growth." Dermaplaning removes fine vellus hair (peach fuzz) at the surface in a similar way, so the same logic applies.
Why does the myth stick around? Mayo Clinic explains that a cut hair has a blunt tip, so it can feel coarse or "stubbly" for a while as it grows out, and may look a bit more noticeable during that phase. WebMD adds that regrowth may feel coarser at first and gets softer over time. The hair itself hasn't changed.
One caveat worth knowing: if you notice a sudden increase in facial hair, Mayo Clinic suggests talking to your doctor, since it can be a medication side effect or a sign of a medical condition. That's a question for a physician, not an esthetician.
02Myth 2: It's just shaving your face
The tool can look like a razor, so we understand the comparison. But the goal is different. Dermaplaning is an exfoliation treatment. A trained professional uses a sterile blade at a careful angle to lift dead surface cells along with peach fuzz, with the skin held taut.
That's why people notice a smoother feel and why makeup often goes on more evenly afterward. On our dermaplaning page we describe it as removing peach fuzz and dead skin cells for smoother-feeling skin.
03Myth 3: It's fine on active breakouts
Not always. Dermaplaning isn't for every skin on every day. Cleveland Clinic lists active acne and cold sore outbreaks among the reasons some people shouldn't have it, and WebMD notes it isn't recommended with inflammatory skin conditions such as acne, rosacea, psoriasis, eczema or sunburn.
WebMD also says that if you've taken isotretinoin, you should wait six months after stopping before trying dermaplaning.
This is why we look at your skin before we pick up a blade. If you're breaking out or irritated, we'll suggest a different treatment for that day or a better time to come back.
04Myth 4: At-home blades are the same thing
At-home tools are popular, and they're not the same as a professional treatment. Healthline notes risks such as irritation, dryness, sun sensitivity, nicks, cuts and scarring, and the spread of bacteria, especially if you have acne.
In the studio, we work on clean, prepped skin with a sterile blade and a set technique, and we finish with soothing products and SPF. If you do dermaplane at home, go gently, use a clean tool, skip any area that's broken out or irritated, and stop if your skin stings or reddens.
05Myth 5: You'll need days to recover
For most people, a professional dermaplaning visit is about as low-key as it gets. Our dermaplaning page lists it as little to no downtime, and most guests can head back to their day after a 45-minute visit.
Some people do see mild pinkness or sensitivity for a short time. WebMD mentions possible redness, soreness or tingling in the short term. That's one reason we never suggest trying it for the first time right before a big event. Give your skin a trial run first.
And because fresh skin is more sensitive to sun, daily broad-spectrum sunscreen afterward isn't optional in Las Vegas.
06How often, and what a visit looks like
Dermaplaning isn't permanent hair removal. Cleveland Clinic notes that hair grows back, so it's a regular treatment rather than a one-time fix. On our dermaplaning page, we suggest every 3 to 4 weeks for most skin, which lines up with the skin's natural renewal cycle. We'll recommend timing for yours.
A visit at our Henderson studio runs about 45 minutes. Dermaplaning starts at $150, and we also offer a Dermaplaning Package for guests planning to come back every 3 to 4 weeks. Many guests pair it with a HydraFacial for cleansing and hydration. Our post on HydraFacial vs dermaplaning before an event compares the two.
07Ready to try it?
Start with a Free Skin Analysis, online from your phone, no visit needed. Or book now, or call us at (702) 408-6891. Our Licensed Advanced Estheticians will check your skin first and tell you honestly whether dermaplaning fits.
08FAQ
Does dermaplaning make hair grow back thicker?
No. Mayo Clinic says shaving hair doesn't change its thickness, color or rate of growth. Regrowth can feel a little coarse at first because the tip is blunt, but the hair itself hasn't changed.
Who shouldn't get dermaplaning?
Medical sources advise against it with active acne, cold sores or inflamed skin such as rosacea, eczema, psoriasis or sunburn, and WebMD suggests waiting six months after stopping isotretinoin. We check your skin first and will suggest another option if it isn't a fit that day.
How often can I get dermaplaning?
Every 3 to 4 weeks works well for most skin, which lines up with the skin's natural renewal cycle. We'll recommend timing for yours.
Is dermaplaning good before makeup?
Many guests like it before makeup because foundation can go on more smoothly without peach fuzz. Try it well before a big event the first time so you know how your skin responds.
This article is for general education and isn't medical advice. If you're pregnant, on acne medication such as a retinoid, have a skin condition or any medical concern, ask your provider before starting a new treatment.
Brenda Diaz is a Licensed Advanced Esthetician & Co‑owner of Beyond Skin & Body Care in Henderson. She reviews Skin Journal posts before they're published.
About Brenda →ReferencesSources
- Mayo Clinic: Does shaved hair grow back thicker?: www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/expert-answers/hair-removal/faq-20058427
- Cleveland Clinic: Dermaplaning: my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/22680-dermaplaning
- WebMD: What is dermaplaning?: www.webmd.com/beauty/what-is-dermaplaning
- Healthline: Pros and cons of dermaplaning: www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/should-i-shave-my-face-the-pros-and-cons-of-dermaplaning