Mary-Anne MetcalfeThe beginner's guide to DIY dermaplaning
Updated: Oct 8, 2021
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Well, hello there!
Do you want dewy, healthy skin? Me too! Check out how I achieve a youthful glowing complexion. At the time I wrote this I was 38, if that helps!
Dermaplaining is a cosmetic procedure that aims to leave your skin looking more youthful, soft and bright.
Dermaplaining removes the top layers of skin and can be great for reducing acne scarring and, removing fine wrinkles.
In the UK a dermaplaning facial costs between £35-£70.
I do mine for free (after purchasing the items needed) at home once a month.
Click the links to help you answer any questions you may have.
Everything you need for a DIY dermaplaning facial
How Dermaplaning Works
Dermaplaining was first prescribed in the 1970s as a possible treatment for acne. A technician skims an exfoliation blade across your skin and the benefits include:
Removal of dead skin cells
Removal of peach fuzz and facial hair
Reduced scarring
Reduced fine lines
Youthful looking skin
Even skin tone
Moisturisers become more effective as they can now be absorbed into your skin
This procedure can be done safely at home with salon level results.
Everything you need for a DIY dermaplaning facial
Here is everything I use when I start my dermaplaning facial at home. It usually takes around 30 minutes if I am applying a face mask. A quick session may last 15 minutes.
Headband to keep hair out of my face and products out of my hair
Silk kimono because then I feel pampered!
Dermaplaning blade Hollywood Browzer is my go-to. I originally started with this set which includes all of the equipment I need.
Facial cleanser I love Simple.
Micellar water for clean skin.
Face mask. I use a variety depending on my financial situation! Save with this multipack I might use this one for a treat and this one for a splurge
Applicator for the face mask. You can just use your fingers but I find it less messy with an applicator. This set includes hairbands and pads too.
Facial cloth to remove the face mask.
Facial oil. I usually use Bio-Oil because I have a couple of facial scars, which is also one of the cheapest. For a treat I might use this oil by Neals Yard Remedies and my splurge is ALWAYS the famous Estee Lauder night oil which I have used for years and swear by.
Facial roller. I use this rose quartz one, you can also buy them in jade.
Alcohol to clean your dermaplaning tool after you use it.
I usually like to have an oil burner on with some aromatherapy oils which I mix up. I really like to mix my own up. I also love this parma violet one too.
Step 1: Cleanse your face
Wash face with water and facial wash
Gently pat dry
Remove any extra debris with micellar water
Step 2: Dermaplane
Start on one side of your face and hold your skin taut with one hand.
Using the other hand, hold the dermaplaning tool at a 45-degree angle and gently move the tool in a downwards motion. Small, short strokes are best.
You can wipe off any dead skin cells or peach fuzz on your blade cleaner which you get with the Hollywood Browzer set.
Repeat the process all over your face. Some areas will be dryer than others (mine is always my forehead).
Try pushing your tongue inside between your teeth and upper lip when you are trying to dermaplane your upper lip.
Avoid the delicate eye area.
Step 3: Repeat Cleanse
I always wipe my face over with micellar water to remove any dead skin that might be left on there.
Please note I am not wearing any makeup in these photo's but have just tinted my brows and lashes. To see the products I use for my lashes and brows click here.
Step 4: Face Mask
Make sure your face is dry.
Apply your choice of face mask with your applicator or fingers. Click here for my recommendations.
Follow the instructions on the face mask and relax!
Step 5: Remove Face Mask
Using a facial cloth wipe off your mask with clean warm water.
Make sure all traces of the face mask are removed.
Gently pat your face dry.
Step 6: Add Oil
Gently smooth a small amount of your facial oil of choice onto your face.
You can find the oils I use here.
Step 7: Facial Roller Massage
Start at the neck and roll upward. Try to roll in one direction for best results, not back and forth.
Roll from the jawline to the ear on both sides. You can continue this motion onto the cheekbone, as I am in the picture.
Roll the roller in an upward direction from the centre of your brows, over your forehead to your temples.
The roller will support any oils being absorbed into your skin and help depuff your skin. I like to run mine under cool water for a minute before I start (dry the roller first). You could even pop it in the fridge for 10 minutes before you start.
I usually do 10 -15 strokes of the roller for each move after a dermaplaning facial, but for daily use, I only do 5. Facial rolling is a great way to help circulation and give you a gorgeous glow.
If you prefer to use a mechanical tool, I use this one occasionally for a change. It does a great job too!
Dermaplaning Q&A's
Will my facial hair grow back thicker if I have dermaplaning?
No. Dermaplaning is an exfoliation technique and skims off the dead cells and hair. It does not have any impact on the follicular structure of the hair.
Is dermaplaning safe to do at home?
I dermaplane my skin at home and have no formal training as a beautician. From my experience, if you keep your blades clean and replace them every 3-4 uses (they become blunt) it has been safe to do at home.
Will I cut myself dermaplaning?
The dermaplaning blade is in essence, a scalpel so if you don't follow the 45-degree angle rule I would suggest you might cut yourself. I have never cut myself and consider it safe. If you are unsure, why not book a session at your local salon first.
How long does dermaplaning last?
I give myself a dermaplaning facial once a month. They might not always be as thorough as the one I have listed here, I might skip the face mask to save time if I have a busy schedule.
What about aftercare?
You have just removed the top layers of skin and may experience some reddening.
Experts advise that you don't:
Use sunbeds or expose as your skin will be more sensitive to UV light
Avoid exercise as you are more prone to getting a sweat rash
This advice should be taken for 24 hours after your dermaplaning facial.
This is the way I maintain a youthful, peach fuzz-free healthy glow. Although did you know Marylin Monroe loved her peach fuzz as it gave her a dreamy glow on screen?
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