Choosing the proper exfoliation method can help you achieve smooth, youthful-looking skin. But with so many options, deciding what’s best for your skin can be challenging!
During this process, an aesthetician will manually scrape away the vellus hair (commonly referred to as peach fuzz) and accumulated layers of dead skin cells using a surgical scalpel. Dermaplaning is painless and suitable for all Fitzpatrick skin types.
Using dermaplaning
A facial procedure called dermaplaning involves scraping away the top layer of fine hairs and dead skin cells with a blade that resembles a scalpel (also known as “peach fuzz”). This exfoliating procedure leaves the face smoother, brighter, and more radiant, but it also helps improve the penetration of skincare products and other treatments like lasers and chemical peels.
Although dermaplaning is often marketed as a treatment for acne, it shouldn’t be done on any skin with active breakouts, as it could cause additional inflammation and make the problem worse. Nonetheless, it can help avoid breakouts in the future by removing dead skin cells and excess oil that can clog pores.
Dermaplaning is a quick, painless procedure that requires no downtime. Avoid direct sunlight afterward, as the temporary lack of a protective skin barrier can leave your face more vulnerable to UV damage. Also, let your skincare specialist know if you have a history of cold sores, as the shaving-like motion can reactivate the virus that causes them.
Microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion is a skin rejuvenation treatment that removes the top dead layer of skin to brighten the complexion’s appearance and improve the look of fine lines and wrinkles. Additionally, enabling skincare products to reach deep into the pores where they are required enhances the skin’s absorption of those products.
Microcrystals spray dead skin cells off the face during the procedure, protecting the newly formed skin layer underneath. All skin types can safely undergo this procedure; the only possible side effect is a transient redness that subsides within a few hours.
Microdermabrasion can treat many skin issues, including ice-pick acne scars and dark marks from sun exposure. The treatment also increases collagen production to help reduce fine lines and wrinkles. Like dermaplaning, it is considered a cosmetic procedure, and medical insurance doesn’t typically cover the cost. However, it is an affordable and effective way to improve the appearance of your skin.
Chemical Peels
Chemical peels are one of the most popular tools dermatologists use to treat age spots, improve blotchy areas, and smooth skin texture. They’re safe for almost all skin colors and types and can provide accurate results in a single treatment. Changes in skin pigmentation may result from phenol-based deep chemical peels; these changes may be transient or long-lasting.
People with darker skin are at greater risk of permanent changes in pigmentation because inflammation from the peeling can block or create excess melanin. You must adhere to your doctor’s instructions regarding sun protection and post-chemical peel skincare, just like any other treatment.
For example, you’ll want to avoid using exfoliating brushes and scrubs or cleansers with a chemical exfoliant for the first week after a peel.
Enzymatic Exfoliation
As its name suggests, this treatment uses enzymes to exfoliate the skin. It improves the look of acne scars, brightens the complexion, and reduces the visibility of fine lines and wrinkles. It doesn’t contain any chemicals, making it an excellent option for sensitive skin.
While dermaplaning is similar to shaving, experts stress that the procedure aims to exfoliate the face rather than remove hair. A dermatologist says a person should avoid shaving or using other exfoliating products that irritate the skin, such as retinoids, for several days before a dermaplaning appointment.
After a dermaplaning session, there is minimal downtime, and a person can return to work. While a person might experience some redness after the 40-minute treatment, it will fade quickly. A person can schedule a dermaplaning appointment every three to four weeks. The price varies depending on a provider’s location; most insurance does not cover the service.