Why Dermaplaning?

Skin is one of the most important features of the face, where dead skin cells, acne scars and vellus hairs can leave your skin looking worn out — and you wishing for more. While exfoliation is a popular skincare solution for these undesirable features, conventional exfoliation products and techniques often contain harsh chemicals and require scrubbing, chafing and abrasion to achieve results.

As far as skincare goes, the body’s natural exfoliation process is not as efficient as we’d like it to be. Skin flaking takes time and does not occur in a uniform pattern or time period. It can also leave fresh new skin cells trapped underneath a layer of dead skin cells, which make our skin look tired and dull. With Dermaplaning, you can enjoy all the benefits of exfoliation instantly and to radiant effect through a safe, fast and painless procedure timed perfectly with your natural skin cycles. Dermaplaning is designed to give the exfoliation process a boost and your skin a natural, glowing makeover. For best results, Dermaplaning is typically performed at the end of every skin cycle, or every 3-4 weeks — and just in time for a brand new layer of skin to reveal your natural beauty.

pretty dermaplaning patient model sitting in a chair with a white shirt

How Does Dermaplaning Work?

Dermaplaning is a simple-yet-delicate procedure that involves the precision removal of the uppermost layer of facial skin using a sterile, surgical scalpel.


Sometimes referred to as “shaving your face”, Dermaplaning is performed by an expert cosmetic surgeon who understands the unique conditions and features of facial skin while applying expert techniques to achieve optimal skincare results.

Dermaplaning should only be done under professional care and on the face, and should never be performed at home or in any other location on the body. This treatment is typically scheduled every 4 weeks and will effectively remove between 2-3 weeks of dead skin cells and vellus hairs from the surface of the face leaving it looking brighter, de-congested and more youthful than before.

red haired dermaplaning patient model wearing makeup

What Are the Benefits of Dermaplaning?

Dermaplaning is a natural facial exfoliation treatment with numerous benefits, including:

Who is the Ideal Candidate for Dermaplaning?


Dermaplaning is for everyone and works on all skin tones and textures, but should be avoided in the case of extensive acne and excessive facial oil production to avoid infection and acne. If you'd like to learn more about Dermaplaning Chicago aesthetic experts at Michael Horn Plastic Surgery & Med Spa can answer any questions you have and address any concerns during a consultation. Schedule one today!

Dermaplaning FAQs

Dermaplaning is designed to accommodate your natural skin cycle, which occurs roughly every 30 days. No more than one treatment every 3-4 weeks is recommended to ensure that the surface skin cells and soft facial hairs being removed are at the end of their cycles and rejuvenation is achieved.

No. Dermaplaning does not affect the pigmentation or thickness of your hair follicles, which is determined by genetics. Your hair will grow back the exact color and thickness as it was before.

Dermaplaning is considered virtually painless and involves a gentle “brushing” technique performed with a sterile surgical scalpel by a Dermaplaning expert.

It is strongly advised not to perform Dermaplaning at home. Dermaplaning is a cosmetic procedure performed with specialty tools and professional evaluation and treatment of the unique features and condition of your facial skin.

Dermaplaning is considered a very safe procedure for all skin types. However, individuals with extensive acne coverage or those who produce a lot of facial oil should avoid Dermaplaning to prevent bacterial growth and further acne breakouts.

Dermaplaning has a very low risk of side-effects, which typically include mild redness at the treatment area for a short period of time following the procedure. Rare side-effects of Dermaplaning include acne, and in extremely rare cases, infection and scarring. To avoid complications or side-effects, your doctor will review the condition of your skin and provide a recommended course of treatment.

Dermaplaning is a quick in-and-out treatment that typically takes 30 minutes or less to complete.

Dermaplaning has no downtime and you can go back to work or your daily activities immediately following treatment. After the procedure, you may be advised to avoid using certain topical products on your facial skin for a short period of time to avoid irritation.

No. In fact, by removing dead skin cells and vellus hairs that trap dirt and oil, you will actually be preventing breakouts instead. It also allows skincare products and treatments to penetrate deeper and nourish fresh, living skin cells.