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Woman dermaplaning her face at home with glowing, smooth skin
Woman dermaplaning her face at home with glowing, smooth skin

Dermaplaning Causes Breakouts

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Dermaplaning is a skin treatment that removes the dead skin and fine hairs using a small blade. It can make your skin feel soft, smooth, and look brighter. But some people worry that it might cause breakouts after the treatment.

Dermaplaning doesn’t usually cause breakouts, but it can if your skin isn’t properly prepped or cared for afterward.

Dirty tools, harsh products, or touching your face can trigger irritation or clogged pores. With the proper prep and gentle aftercare, dermaplaning is safe and leaves your skin smooth and glowing.

If you're thinking of getting your glow on professionally, check out the experts at CoLaz’s Dermaplaning Service for safe, skin-loving treatments. In this post, we’ll explain why breakouts might happen, how to avoid them, and how to prepare your skin correctly.

Does Dermaplaning Cause Breakouts? 4 Causes, 4 Prep To Prevent It

You're not alone if you’ve ever noticed a few pesky pimples popping up afterward. The question is: Is dermaplaning to blame for breakouts? To know the clear answer, you must read this first, whether new to the blade or a total pro. We’re breaking down the truth behind dermaplaning and breakouts, plus the best ways to prep and protect your skin before and after.

Can Dermaplaning Cause Breakouts?

Dermaplaning doesn’t usually cause breakouts, but it can if your skin isn’t clean or cared for properly. The blade removes the top layer of dead skin, so your face may be more sensitive after. If bacteria or heavy products are introduced right after, it may lead to clogged pores or irritation. Here are some reasons why you might break out after dermaplaning:

  • Dirty tools: If you use a blade at home that hasn’t been adequately cleaned, it can spread bacteria on your skin. This can lead to acne and skin infections. Always make sure tools are clean and dry before use.
  • Over-exfoliating: If you already exfoliated your skin earlier in the week, dermaplaning can be too much. Too much exfoliation weakens the skin and may cause redness, dryness, or pimples. Give your skin time to rest before and after.
  • Using heavy products: After dermaplaning, your skin absorbs products more easily. If you use thick creams or oily lotions, they can clog your pores. Choose light, non-comedogenic (won’t clog pores) moisturizers.
  • Touching your face: Your skin is more open and sensitive after dermaplaning. Touching it with unwashed hands can move dirt and bacteria onto your face, leading to breakouts. Try to keep your hands off!
Esthetician performing dermaplaning on a client in a clean spa environment

How To Prep Your Skin for Dermaplaning

Getting your skin ready is super important. Prepping it correctly will give you better results and help you avoid breakouts. Here’s how to prepare your face before the treatment:

Cleanse Your Skin Well

You should start with a clean face. Use a mild cleanser that doesn’t have strong acids or scrubbing beads.

  • It removes all dirt, sweat, and oils.
  • Helps a blade glide smoothly over your skin.
  • A clean face lowers the chance of bacteria causing breakouts.

Use lukewarm water and gently apply your skin dry with a clean towel. Don’t rub it harshly.

Avoid Active Skincare Ingredients

Strong products like retinol and salicylic acid can irritate your skin, especially before dermaplaning.

  • Stop using products with retinol, AHAs, BHAs, or benzoyl peroxide for 2 to 3 days before.
  • These ingredients make your skin more sensitive, increasing the risk of redness or peeling.
  • Your skin needs to be calm and healthy before treatment.

Before your appointment, stick to simple skincare with calming ingredients like aloe vera or hyaluronic acid.

Don't Wax or Shave Beforehand

Avoid waxing or shaving your face before dermaplaning.

  • Waxing pulls hair from the root, which can cause redness or bumps.
  • Shaving too close to the appointment may make your skin too sensitive.
  • Let dermaplaning do its job; it removes peach fuzz on its own.

Wait 5 to 7 days after hair removal before getting dermaplaning.

Hydrate and Protect

Moisturizing your skin keeps it soft and ready for the blade.

  • Use a light moisturizer the night before - avoid thick, greasy ones.
  • Well-hydrated skin is easier to treat and heals faster.
  • Drink plenty of water during the day to keep your skin healthy.

Also, wear sunscreen daily before and after dermaplaning. Your skin can be more sensitive to the sun after the treatment.

What To Do After Dermaplaning

Before and after dermaplaning results showing smoother, clearer skin

Caring for your skin after dermaplaning is just as important as prepping it. After the treatment, your skin will be more open and delicate, so you need to be gentle. Follow these simple tips for healthy, glowing skin:

  • Don’t touch your face often: Your hands carry bacteria. Avoid touching on your face unless your hands are clean. This will help prevent breakouts and skin irritation.
  • Avoid makeup upto 24 hours: Let your skin breathe. Makeup can clog your pores while your skin is still healing. Wait a full day before applying any products like foundation or powder.
  • Skip the gym or sweating heavily: Sweat can irritate freshly treated skin and cause breakouts. Avoid exercise, saunas, or long sun exposure for 24 hours after treatment.
  • Use gentle moisturizers and SPF: Stick to lightweight products with the calming ingredients like aloe vera or hyaluronic acid. Always apply sunscreen, even if you stay indoors, your skin can be extra sensitive to UV rays.
  • Avoid harsh exfoliants for 3 to 5 days: Don’t use scrubs or acid-based products after dermaplaning. Your skin requires time to heal and restore its natural barrier.

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Conclusion

So, can dermaplaning cause breakouts? The short answer is: not really, if you do it right. Breakouts usually indicate that your skin wasn’t appropriately prepped or you skipped the post-care steps. With a clean face, the right products, and a little TLC afterward, you’ll keep your skin smooth, clear, and camera-ready.

Still feeling unsure? Don’t stress it, leave it to the pros. Visit Colaz’s Dermaplaning Treatment page to book a session and let trained hands care for your skin safely.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Dermaplaning Help With Acne Scars Or Dark Spots?

Yes, dermaplaning can help improve appearance of acne scars and dark spots by removing the dead skin cells and promoting cell turnover. While it won't erase deep scars, regular sessions can make skin tone appear even and smooth over time.

Is Dermaplaning Safe For People With Active Acne Or Sensitive Skin?

Dermaplaning is not recommended on areas with active acne, as the blade can spread bacteria or irritate inflamed skin. However, those with sensitive skin can still benefit from the treatment if it’s done by a trained professional using gentle techniques.

How Often Should You Get Dermaplaning Done?

Most people can safely get dermaplaning every 3 to 4 weeks. This timing allows your skin to complete this natural regeneration cycle, giving the best results without over-exfoliating.

Can Men Get Dermaplaning Too?

Absolutely! Men can benefit from dermaplaning just like women, especially to smooth out rough texture, remove dead skin, and create a better surface for shaving or skincare products. Just note: it's best done on the areas without a full beard.

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