Does Dermaplaning Hurt? Here's What An Expert Had To Say

Dermaplaning — otherwise known as getting a small blade dragged across your skin to remove the fine hair that grows on your face — might sound scary and painful. But does dermaplaning hurt?

When you think "blade," it might conjure up images of cutting or scraping your face. Don't worry — this is much more low key than that. Dermaplaning is more like shaving your face — but it's a far more involved process than grabbing the same Venus you use for your legs and going to town. Dermaplaning is done by a professional with a sterile blade at the right angle, ensuring you don't hurt yourself and that you get the most benefits.

So, does it hurt? According to Dr. Norman Rowe, MD, who is a board certified plastic surgeon by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, dermaplaning is a painless treatment.

"Dermaplaning is a skin care treatment that removes dead skin cells and vellus hair, aka peach fuzz. By removing vellus hair and dead skin cells, skin has a natural glow and makeup applies seamlessly," says Dr. Rowe.

So what's the painless process actually like? First, the treatment area is cleansed. The practitioner performing the treatment then uses a small, sterile blade while holding the skin taut, swiping the blade in gentle motions.

Dr. Rowe suggests avoiding retinoids or heavy exfoliating for 3-5 days before and after the procedure. Keep in mind that skin can be more sensitive to the sun after the procedure so be sure to apply sunscreen daily (though you should do this anyways to protect your skin) and use a hydrating cream at night.

Other than that, there's no pain in the game. If the results are something you're looking for, don't hesitate to give this innovative treatment a try.