Epidermal turnover is the name of the natural exfoliating process your skin performs. This process removes dead cells as well as debris and other impurities. According to the Journal of Dermatological Science, epidermal turnover happens every two weeks before the age of 30. After turning 30, however, the process extends to every 40 days.
A slower epidermal turnover means dead cells and impurities remain, giving your skin a dulled look. One popular option at Deja You Medical for removing those dead skin cells is dermaplaning. Learn more about the benefits it offers below.
What Is Dermaplaning?
Dermaplaning, also called a dermaplane facial or a scalpel facial, is a non-invasive procedure that removes the top layer of dead skin. It can also remove vellus hair, or peach fuzz, giving the skin a smoother look and removing oils and impurities from its surface.
We use a specialized blade that looks like a surgical scalpel to manually exfoliate the skin. The dermaplaning process is similar to shaving, but instead of just removing hair, a dermaplane facial also removes dead skin cells.
Dermaplaning is appropriate for people with the following skin concerns:
- Acne scars
- Dry skin
- Dull skin
- Sun-damaged skin
- Fine wrinkles
- Uneven skin tones
This treatment works for all skin types. The ideal candidate for a scalpel facial is someone who wants to have more radiant and smoother skin. If you have eczema, rosacea, or skin inflammations, we will work with you to find the right alternative treatment.
Dermaplane Facial Benefits
Dermaplaning can help remove small skin imperfections, shallow scars, dead skin, and small hairs, giving you a much smoother complexion. It allows you to target specific issues you have with your skin — and because it doesn’t use harsh chemicals, you don’t have to worry about skin sensitivity issues.
The procedure is also quick, with most sessions only lasting about 30 minutes. It doesn’t require you to take time off, either, so you can get back to your daily activities right after getting a scalpel facial.
Another benefit that dermaplaning offers is that it pairs very well with other cosmetic procedures. It is not invasive or harsh, and it stimulates the skin’s surface — so lotions, creams, and other skincare formulas will be more effective because your skin will be more receptive to absorbing them.
Dermaplaning is also one of the few options that are ideal for all skin types, unlike laser resurfacing and chemical peels.
Preparing for a Scalpel Facial
When you schedule your consultation at our clinic, we will ask you about your medical history, your skincare routine, and any medications you take. We will also assess the areas you want to be treated to ensure dermaplaning is an appropriate procedure for your goals.
At least three days before your dermaplaning treatment, you should discontinue using any other skin exfoliating products. This includes facial scrubs, retinol products, and exfoliating serums. At least five days prior to your appointment, avoid unprotected sun exposure because it can make your skin more sensitive.
If you have cuts or other wounds in the treatment area, it is better to reschedule the procedure. We also recommend that you add an antibacterial skincare product to your routine a few days ahead of the dermaplane facial.
If you have been taking Accutane, it is important to wait six months after stopping the medication before you schedule a dermaplaning session. Men should also not shave before the appointment because shaving can irritate the skin and make the scalpel facial less effective.
The Dermaplaning Procedure
On the day of the procedure, we will apply a cleanser with alpha or beta hydroxy acids to prepare your skin and help loosen the dead skin cells. We will then use a sterilized 10-gauge scalpel, placing it at a 45-degree angle, to start the dermaplaning procedure. We will pull your skin tight and make short motions against the skin’s grain.
Once we finish, we will apply a moisturizer, and you can then return to your day.
Dermaplaning Aftercare
We recommend that you stay out of the sun for at least three days after dermaplaning and also avoid extreme heat. For a week after the scalpel facial, do not use any type of exfoliant, and make sure to avoid chlorine. Always wear sunscreen and regularly apply moisturizers and lotions to keep your skin hydrated.
For 24 hours after the procedure, avoid wearing makeup, and do not engage in strenuous exercise for at least a day.
Once two weeks have passed, you want to start adding mild facial cleansers to your routine while still avoiding harsh chemicals.
You may see an improvement in your skin almost immediately after the procedure. By following the guidelines we offer, the results will improve.
We usually recommend people schedule dermaplaning once a month to maintain the results. If you have sensitive skin, we may space these out every six weeks. When you come to your first consultation, we will discuss all of this to put together a treatment plan that works for you.
Renew Your Skin with Dermaplaning
If you have skin that tends to look dull, if you have shallow acne scars, or if you just want your skin to look smoother and more radiant, dermaplaning is a great choice.
At Deja You Medical in Navarre, FL, we offer treatment options to help patients age beautifully by turning to consistent skincare solutions. With our proactive approach to skin health, we can help you prevent signs of aging as well as treat existing ones. Book an appointment with our experts today to see how we can help.
