Your go-to guide from the skin-obsessed team at Cheeks + Co, serving up flawless faces in Pasadena & Los Angeles Put on your thinking cap because you are about to become a dermaplaning expert! ✨

What is Dermaplaning?

Q: What exactly is dermaplaning?

Think of dermaplaning as the ultimate skin refresh treatment! It's a professional exfoliation that uses a sterile surgical scalpel to gently whisk away dead skin cells and peach fuzz, revealing the baby-soft, radiant skin hiding underneath. Trust us, it's like hitting the refresh button on your face.

Q: How is dermaplaning different from other exfoliation methods?

Unlike chemical peels that use acids or microdermabrasion that uses diamonds, dermaplaning is a physical exfoliation method that provides immediate results without chemicals or abrasive materials. The procedure removes approximately 2-3 weeks worth of dead skin cells in a single session, making it one of the most effective exfoliation treatments available.

Q: What does the dermaplaning process look like?

During a dermaplaning facial at Cheeks + Co, your esthetician will cleanse your skin thoroughly, then use a sterile 10-gauge scalpel held at a 45-degree angle to gently scrape across your skin in upward strokes. The entire process typically takes 20 -30 minutes and is followed by detailed and thorough extractions, a mask, massage and cold rolling or LED. Dermaplaning is completely painless when performed by a trained professional.

How Dermaplaning Works: The Science Behind the Treatment

Q: What happens to your skin during dermaplaning?

Dermaplaning works on the principle of manual exfoliation. The scalpel removes the stratum corneum (the outermost layer of dead skin cells) along with vellus hair (aka pesky baby hairs). This process triggers your skin's natural renewal cycle, encouraging the production of new, healthy skin cells.

Q: Why does removing dead skin cells improve appearance?

Dead skin cells can make your complexion look dull, rough, and uneven. They also prevent skincare products from penetrating effectively. By removing this barrier, dermaplaning allows your natural skin radiance to show through and helps your skincare products work more effectively.

Q: What role does vellus hair removal play?

Vellus hair (peach fuzz) can trap dirt, oil, and dead skin cells, contributing to a dull appearance and potentially clogged pores. Removing this hair creates a smoother canvas for makeup application and allows light to reflect more evenly off your skin, creating a natural glow.

Q: How does dermaplaning stimulate collagen production?

The gentle trauma of the scalpel stimulates your skin's healing response, which can increase collagen and elastin production over time. This leads to improved skin texture, reduced fine lines, and a more youthful appearance with regular treatments.

Benefits and Results of Dermaplaning

Q: What are the immediate benefits of dermaplaning?

Get ready to fall in love with your reflection! Immediately after dermaplaning, you'll be obsessed with:

• Silky-smooth skin that feels like velvet
• A glow so bright you might need sunglasses ✨
• Makeup that applies like a filter (seriously!)
• Skincare products that actually penetrate instead of sitting on top
• Fine lines that seem to magically disappear
• Skin tone so even, you'll skip foundation

Q: What long-term benefits can I expect?

With regular dermaplaning treatments (every 4-6 weeks), clients typically experience:

• Continued improvement in skin texture and tone
• Reduced appearance of acne scarring
• Minimized pore appearance
• Better overall skin health
• Enhanced effectiveness of other skincare treatments

Q: How quickly will I see results?

Results from dermaplaning are immediate and visible right after your first treatment. Your skin will feel noticeably smoother and look brighter immediately. The full benefits become more apparent over the following days as your skin continues to renew itself.

Q: Can dermaplaning help with specific skin concerns?

Dermaplaning is particularly effective for:

• Dull, rough skin texture
• Fine lines and wrinkles
• Uneven skin tone
• Mild acne scarring
• Clogged pores
• Poor product absorption
• Makeup application issues

Who is a Good Candidate for Dermaplaning?

Q: Is dermaplaning suitable for all skin types?

Dermaplaning is safe and effective for most skin types, including sensitive skin and pregnant clients. At Cheeks + Co, we've helped countless gorgeous clients across Los Angeles and Pasadena achieve their dream skin! It's perfect for anyone wanting:

• Dry or rough skin texture
• Fine facial hair that interferes with makeup
• Dull or uneven complexion
• Mild signs of aging
• Skin that doesn't respond well to chemical exfoliation

Q: Who should avoid dermaplaning?

Dermaplaning may not be suitable for individuals with:

• Active acne breakouts or cystic acne
• Inflamed or irritated skin conditions
• Recent sunburn
• Open wounds or cuts on the face
• Certain skin medications (consult your dermatologist)
• Very sensitive skin that reacts poorly to physical exfoliation

Q: Can men benefit from dermaplaning?

Absolutely! Men can benefit greatly from dermaplaning, especially those who want smoother skin texture and better skincare product absorption. However, men with coarse beard hair should avoid dermaplaning in areas where they shave regularly.

Q: Is there an ideal age to start dermaplaning?

Dermaplaning can be beneficial for adults of any age, but it's most commonly sought by individuals in their late twenties and beyond when natural cell turnover begins to slow down. There's no upper age limit, making it an excellent option for mature skin.

Professional vs At-Home Dermaplaning: Key Differences

Q: Can I perform dermaplaning at home?

While at-home dermaplaning tools are available, professional treatment offers significant advantages in terms of safety, effectiveness, and results.

Q: What are the risks of at-home dermaplaning?

At-home dermaplaning risks include:

• Cuts and nicks from improper technique
• Uneven exfoliation
• Infection from non-sterile tools
• Irritation from excessive pressure
• Ineffective results due to inferior tools

Q: How do professional results compare to at-home treatments?

Professional dermaplaning provides:

• Sterile, medical-grade instruments
• Expert technique and proper angle
• Thorough and even exfoliation
• Safety protocols and aftercare guidance
• Better, longer-lasting results
• Combination with other professional treatments

Q: What should I look for in a professional provider?

Choose a provider who:

• Is a licensed esthetician o
• Has specific training in dermaplaning techniques
• Uses sterile, single-use scalpels
• Maintains proper sanitation protocols
• Offers thorough consultation and aftercare instructions
• Has positive reviews and testimonials

At Cheeks + Co, our team of expert estheticians in both our Pasadena and Los Angeles locations are specially trained in dermaplaning techniques and committed to providing safe, effective treatments.

Safety Considerations and Potential Side Effects

Q: Is dermaplaning safe?

When performed by a trained professional using proper techniques and sterile equipment, dermaplaning is very safe with minimal risk of complications.

Q: What are the potential side effects?

Most people experience no side effects, but some may notice:

• Mild redness immediately after treatment (usually subsides within hours)
• Slight sensitivity for 24-48 hours
• Temporary tightness as skin adjusts
• Rare instances of minor nicks and scrapes

Q: How can I minimize risks?

To ensure the safest experience:

• Choose a qualified, experienced provider
  
• Disclose any medications or skin conditions
• Avoid sun exposure before and after treatment
• Follow proper aftercare protocols

Q: What should I do if I experience adverse reactions?

Contact your provider immediately if you experience:

• Excessive redness or swelling
• Signs of infection
• Unusual pain or discomfort
• Persistent irritation beyond 48 hours

Post-Treatment Care and Aftercare Instructions

Q: What should I expect immediately after dermaplaning?

Right after treatment, your skin may appear slightly pink and feel more sensitive than usual. This is completely normal and typically resolves within a few hours.

Q: What's the proper aftercare routine?

For the first 24-48 hours after dermaplaning:

• Avoid direct sun exposure
• Use gentle, fragrance-free skincare products
• Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen. We will lather you up after your dermaplaning facial! 
• Avoid makeup for at least 4-6 hours
• Don't use retinoids or exfoliating products
• Keep skin hydrated with a gentle moisturizer

Q: When can I resume my normal skincare routine?

You can typically resume your regular skincare routine 48-72 hours after treatment, but avoid:

• Harsh exfoliants for 1 week
• Retinoids for 3-5 days
• Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) for 3-5 days
• Beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) for 3-5 days

Q: How should I protect my skin after dermaplaning?

Sun protection is crucial as your newly exposed skin will be more sensitive to UV damage. Use SPF 30 or higher daily and reapply every 2 hours when outdoors.

Q: What products work best after dermaplaning?

Your skin will be more receptive to skincare products, making this an ideal time to use:

• Hydrating serums with hyaluronic acid like TidalShift Serum
• Vitamin C serums (after 24-48 hours)
• Gentle moisturizers like CloudCover
• High-quality mineral sunscreen

Cost Considerations and Treatment Value

Q: How much does professional dermaplaning cost?

Professional dermaplaning typically costs between $136 -$240 per session, depending on your location and the length of your service (either 60 or 90 minutes) At Cheeks + Co in Pasadena and Los Angeles, we offer competitive pricing that reflects our expertise and the quality of care you'll receive. If interested in consistent smooth skin we recommend our monthly facial membership. 

Q: Is dermaplaning worth the investment?

Many clients find dermaplaning provides excellent value because:

• Results are immediate and visible
• No downtime required
• Can reduce need for other expensive treatments
• Improves effectiveness of skincare products
• Provides professional-grade results

Q: How often should I get dermaplaning treatments?

For optimal results, most people benefit from dermaplaning every 4-6 weeks, which aligns with your skin's natural renewal cycle. This frequency maintains smooth texture and continued benefits.

Q: Are there package deals available?

At Cheeks + Co, we offer a monthly facial membership that provides more than 20% off your monthly dermaplaning facial, as well as product discounts for home care. 

Q: How does dermaplaning cost compare to other treatments?

At Cheeks + Co we do not believe in add-ons, so dermaplaning is the same price as our other modalities. This is unlike other spas that will upsell and charge for dermaplaning. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Will my hair grow back thicker after dermaplaning?

Oh honey, no! This is the biggest myth in the beauty world, and we're here to bust it. Dermaplaning removes vellus hair (that's the fancy term for peach fuzz), which is totally different from the hair on your head or legs. Your peach fuzz will grow back exactly the same - soft, fine, and barely noticeable. Promise!

Q: Can I combine dermaplaning with other treatments?

Yes, dermaplaning pairs well with:

• Hydrating facials
• LED light therapy
• Cold Rolling
• Professional masks

Q: How long do dermaplaning results last?

Results typically last 3-4 weeks, as this aligns with your skin's natural cell turnover cycle. Regular treatments maintain optimal results.

Q: Can I wear makeup after dermaplaning?

It's best to wait 4-6 hours before applying makeup to allow your skin to settle. When you do apply makeup, you'll likely notice it goes on smoother and looks more flawless.

Q: Is dermaplaning painful?

Not even a little bit! When done by our skilled estheticians at Cheeks + Co, dermaplaning feels like the gentlest, most relaxing facial massage. Most of our Pasadena and LA babes describe it as oddly satisfying - kind of like a zen moment for your face.

Q: Can pregnant women get dermaplaning?

Yes, dermaplaning is safe during pregnancy as it doesn't involve chemicals or medications. It's actually a popular treatment for expecting mothers who want to avoid chemical treatments.

Q: What's the difference between dermaplaning and microdermabrasion?

Dermaplaning uses a scalpel for manual exfoliation and removes hair, while microdermabrasion uses diamond tips for mechanical exfoliation. Dermaplaning tends to be gentler and provides more immediate smoothness.

Q: Can dermaplaning help with acne scars?

Dermaplaning can help improve the appearance of mild acne scars by removing the top layer of damaged skin and promoting cell renewal. However, deeper scars may require additional treatments.

Q: How do I prepare for my first dermaplaning treatment?

To prepare for dermaplaning:

• Avoid harsh sun exposure for 1 week prior
• Stop using retinoids 3-5 days before
• Don't wax or use hair removal creams on your face
• If you can, arrive with clean skin (no makeup), no worries if you can't
• Inform your esthetician of any medications or skin conditions

Q: What makes a good dermaplaning candidate?

Ideal candidates have:

• Realistic expectations about results
• No active skin infections or inflammation
• Commitment to proper aftercare
• Understanding of the treatment process
• Willingness to maintain regular appointments for best results

Conclusion: Is Dermaplaning Right for You?

Dermaplaning offers the perfect solution for those seeking smoother, brighter, more radiant skin without the downtime associated with more aggressive treatments. This professional exfoliation method provides immediate results and can significantly improve your skin's texture, appearance, and receptiveness to skincare products.

The key to successful dermaplaning lies in choosing a qualified Glow Giver who uses proper techniques and maintains the highest safety standards. When performed correctly, dermaplaning is a safe, effective treatment that can become a valuable part of your skincare routine.

If you're considering dermaplaning, consult with a licensed esthetician who can assess your skin type, discuss your goals, and determine if this treatment is the right fit for your skincare needs. With proper care and regular maintenance, dermaplaning can help you achieve and maintain the smooth, glowing complexion you desire.

Ready to get that glass-skin glow? ✨ At Cheeks + Co, we're absolutely obsessed with helping our Pasadena and Los Angeles beauties achieve their most radiant skin ever! Book your dermaplaning appointment today and prepare to be completely obsessed with your reflection. Your future self will thank you! 💫