How Much Does Dermaplaning Cost? Is It Worth the Price?

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Exfoliating is such an essential part of the skincare process that all of us — with any skin type — should make it part of our routine.

But for some people, the typical manual exfoliation doesn’t seem enough to do the trick. There are also those with skin that’s too sensitive for chemical exfoliation.

Cropped shot of doctor wearing blue gloves holding scalpel near woman

If any of those dilemmas apply to you, today’s your lucky day because you’ll learn about dermaplaning. And just like other cosmetic procedures, the cost of dermaplaning might be a concern for you.

So how much is dermaplaning?

Keep reading to learn how much dermaplaning costs to decide for yourself if you’re ready to get it done.

What Is Dermaplaning?

Dermaplaning is a non-invasive procedure that involves the use of a specific type of surgical scalpel.

But don’t let the use of a scalpel scare you; dermaplaning isn’t painful. 

Despite the tool needed for the procedure, the dermatologist or aesthetician will only use the scalpel to scrape the outermost layer of your skin gently.

Dermaplaning’s primary purpose is exfoliation, which rids your skin of dullness, dead skin cells, and buildup. 

Because the process uses a scalpel to scrape off the top layer of the skin gently, it also helps shave off fine and short vellus hairs, which you might also know as peach fuzz.

How Much Does Dermaplaning Cost?

Since dermaplaning is a cosmetic procedure, you can’t expect it to be covered by your insurance provider. So it’s important to have an idea of how much dermaplaning costs before booking your first appointment.

The average cost of dermaplaning is around $75 to $200. But depending on various factors, you can also find clinics and professionals charging up to $250 for one session.

Most clinics and spas will let you have dermaplaning done per session, and every session usually lasts 20 to 30 minutes. But you can also make it a part of your regular facial treatment.

The exfoliating benefits of dermaplaning also help the skin absorb products better. So aestheticians typically offer their clients a chemical peel after, which is billed as a separate service that could cost somewhere around $150 to $300.

Factors That Can Affect Dermaplaning Cost

The average cost of dermaplaning can vary due to several factors. Its price could be higher or lower depending on your location and your provider’s expertise. 

But your total bill could also go way above the usual price of dermaplaning if you get complementary treatments or procedures.

Location

Location is one of the most common factors that can dictate how much dermaplaning would cost. When looking for a clinic or spa, you’re most likely to choose one near you. 

But if you live in a city like New York City or Los Angeles and choose a nearby beauty provider, don’t be surprised if you’re paying more for dermaplaning than those living in other cities.

It’s a simple fact that your aesthetician or dermatologist has to pay rent too! So if you’re in a city known for higher average rent or if you choose to visit a clinic in an upscale area, those could drive up the cost of your dermaplaning session.

Provider’s Training and Expertise

Generally, dermatologists and plastic surgeons are allowed to perform dermaplaning.

Many cities and states allow trained aestheticians and cosmetologists to carry out the treatment, while other areas might require them to acquire a license.

Because their training and expertise don’t usually come for free, you can expect that add to the price of dermaplaning as well.

Discounts and Loyalty Programs

Dermaplaning is obviously more costly than other skincare procedures. But there are also ways to make it more budget-friendly.

If you want to make it a regular part of your regimen, be on the lookout for discounts near you or from your favorite med spa.

You can also ask your clinic or provider if they have a loyalty program that lets you earn rewards later on if you keep coming back for dermaplaning.

Benefits of Dermaplaning

Exfoliation is one of the essential steps in skincare. And if your skin doesn’t respond well to chemical exfoliants, dermaplaning could be one of the manual exfoliating procedures that could work for you. 

Dermaplaning has several benefits that you’ll instantly notice after a session, such as the following:

Brighter and Smoother Skin

You can ask any dermaplaning fanatic out there, and they’ll likely tell you how much they love their skin after every session.

In dermaplaning, aestheticians and dermatologists use the no. 10 surgical blade and position it at a 45-degree angle.

They will then lightly scrape the outer layer of the skin, which is how dermaplaning exfoliates and removes dry and dead skin cells.

Beautiful smiling young woman touching skin and looking at mirror in bathroom

The procedure works great in removing dry patches and can also smoothen fine lines. It’s even believed to improve pigmentation caused by sun damage.

As an exfoliating procedure, dermaplaning helps remove product and sebum buildup that causes skin dullness. It also shaves off fine hairs, so you’ll instantly feel your skin become smoother. 

With fewer impurities to worry about, you get to say hello to brighter skin!

Better Makeup Application

Applying your foundation and other makeup products on a smoother surface should make your beauty routine much easier.

And having smooth skin can also improve how long your makeup rests on your face. Without obstructions and impurities, your foundation should be able to last longer on your skin.

Suitable for All Skin Types

Dermaplaning doesn’t need any chemicals to exfoliate, which makes it a terrific option for any skin type. It only involves gently scraping the topmost layer of the skin, so it should also work well for sensitive skin types.

Dermatologists also note that the lack of chemicals, peeling solutions, and laser equipment makes dermaplaning safe even for pregnant women.

The Downsides of Dermaplaning

Although the benefits of dermaplaning are compelling, like any other skin procedure, it has its own downsides and is not entirely risk-free. 

It’s important to recognize these to make a better-informed decision before booking a dermaplaning appointment.

Side Effects

While dermaplaning only involves light scraping, it doesn’t completely eliminate the risk of experiencing skin irritation after the procedure. There’s also a small chance of getting infection or, worse, scarring.

But remember that these risks and side effects only become likely if dermaplaning isn’t done correctly and without the proper tools. 

It could also be riskier for people with skin that’s more sensitive. So it’s still best to consult a dermatologist or aesthetician to get it done. 

Cost

The mere cost of dermaplaning, which could go for several hundred dollars, can be its own downside. While it’s a procedure you have to get less often, it’s still more costly compared to other exfoliation treatments.

It’s Not for Everyone

Dermaplaning is safe for most skin types, but it’s not advised for people with underlying skin conditions. 

If you’ve had previous bouts with cold sores, you may also want to consult your doctor first before going for a dermaplaning appointment.

People with cystic acne and active breakouts may also face higher risks from dermaplaning.

Less Intensive Exfoliation

Remember that dermaplaning only exfoliates the superficial layers of the skin. So if you need a more intensive treatment, you may have to go with chemical exfoliation or other treatments.

How To Prepare for Dermaplaning

There aren’t many things you need to do before going to your dermaplaning appointment. But there are also things you have to remember (and avoid) before getting the procedure.

Skincare Before Dermaplaning

Make sure you go about your normal skincare routine on the day you’re getting dermaplaning. Some experts advise double-cleansing before heading to the clinic. 

While toning your face, ensure you remove any excess oil on the skin’s surface.

BUT! Skip the Exfoliation Part

While having a clean face is advisable before dermaplaning, you should be wary of over-exfoliating your skin. 

Before your dermaplaning session, it’s advised to skip your usual physical exfoliation routine for a few days.

If you’re using chemical exfoliants like retinol, you must stop applying the product at least five days before your dermaplaning appointment.

Check for Acne Flare-ups and Wounds

Because dermaplaning involves gently scraping your face with a surgical blade, an active acne flare-up should tell you if you must reschedule your appointment.

It’s also important that your face has no open wounds to avoid any issues during and after dermaplaning.

Avoid Direct Sun Exposure

If you have plans to go to the beach and sunbathe ahead of your dermaplaning appointment, this is one of the instances where you have to choose which one you want more.

A photo of a woman touching her hat.

Being directly exposed to the sun will make the skin more sensitive, which could make it prone to irritation and other reactions once you get dermaplaning.

Schedule Facial Waxing Way Ahead of Your Appointment

It’s important to note that dermaplaning is not the same as shaving or waxing. The former can shave off vellus hair but won’t remove hair from follicles.

So if you want to remove your so-called whiskers or shape your eyebrows by waxing, threading, or shaving, you can’t replace those procedures with dermaplaning.

That said, any epilation procedure can’t be done too close to your dermaplaning appointment. The same goes for men when it comes to shaving.

Waxing, shaving, and threading can lead to bumps and aggravated skin, which could adversely affect the result of dermaplaning.

What To Do After Dermaplaning

So now you’ve gone to your favorite aesthetician and are enjoying smooth, glowing skin after the dermaplaning procedure. What can you do to maximize its benefits?

Sunscreen Is Your Best Friend

Remember that dermaplaning will essentially remove a layer of your skin. While it’s a safe and healthy practice, it also means that your skin will be a tad more sensitive than usual, especially right after the procedure.

So if you’re advised to use sun protection before dermaplaning, the advice remains even after your appointment.

This doesn’t necessarily mean you have to avoid the outdoors after dermaplaning. But make sure to apply reliable sunscreen with enough SPF when you’re going out while the sun is out.

Wait Before Applying Makeup

There’s no downtime needed after dermaplaning, unlike other procedures. But some dermatologists still advise waiting at least a day before applying makeup.

Experts explain that your skin barrier is more susceptible to irritation after dermaplaning. And since it’s quite tricky to track all the ingredients in makeup products, it may be best to wait a little before applying them.

Who Can Benefit From Dermaplaning?

One of the great things about dermaplaning is that it’s pretty low-risk due to the absence of chemicals and other exfoliating products. It’s as manual as you can get when talking about exfoliation.

So for most people, their skin type shouldn’t be a huge concern when considering getting dermaplaning. But those with extremely sensitive skin, cystic acne, and skin conditions may want to skip this procedure.

However, if you notice your skin getting dull and suffering from superficial hyperpigmentation, this method of exfoliation might be the one you’re looking for.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Often Should I Get Dermaplaning?

The process involves the actual removal of the top layer of the skin. So while it doesn’t include chemical exfoliants, dermaplaning is not something you can get done as often as a facial.

Most professionals will advise getting dermaplaning once a month only. That’s also because its effect lasts for three to four weeks.

So while facial dermaplaning costs more than other services, having it done once a month should make it more financially manageable.

Is There a Downtime Needed After Dermaplaning?

There’s no downtime required after dermaplaning because it doesn’t include any chemicals and only involves gentle manual exfoliation.

However, light scraping commonly causes temporary redness. But that should go away a few hours after the procedure.

Will Dermaplaning Make My Facial Hair Thicker?

The short answer is no. 

People believe that shaving would make your hair grow thicker. And because dermaplaning essentially involves removing fine hairs, some might be worried about having thicker facial hair.

Experts say that hair only looks thicker or grows faster because shaving the hair gives it a blunt tip.

Is Dermaplaning Painful?

No. Even though professionals will use a surgical blade for dermaplaning, the procedure is painless.

It only requires your dermatologist or aesthetician to perform light and gentle strokes to scrape off dead skin cells. So you shouldn’t feel pain during dermaplaning.

Who Should Avoid Dermaplaning?

While dermatologists agree that dermaplaning is a good physical exfoliation on any skin type, people with certain skin issues are advised against this procedure.

Clients with eczema, rosacea, and keratosis pilaris should avoid dermaplaning because they’re more prone to skin irritation. If you also have sunburn, you might want to reschedule your appointment until your skin fully heals.

Dermaplaning Cost: Is It Worth It?

There’s no denying that dermaplaning costs more than the usual skincare services you get at the spa. 

But after learning about its benefits and how it can help you maintain smooth and glowing skin in the long run with minimal risks, the procedure seems worth it.

Cropped shot of doctor wearing white gloves holding scalpel near woman with headband over head and eyes closed

It’s one of the safest ways to exfoliate the skin. It will also suit your needs no matter what skin type you have.

And after just a half-hour session, you’ll immediately see how your skin’s brighter and smoother.

While an average cost of $75 to $200 is quite up there, it’s worth noting that you’ll only have to get dermaplaning once a month.

So if you have the time and some hard-earned money to spare, the price of dermaplaning can be a worthy investment for healthier, youthful skin.

Learn More Ways To Take Care of Your Skin! 

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Authors

  • Ashley Pena

    Ashley Pena brings over 13 years of seasoned writing and editing expertise, fortified by her Bachelor of Science in Management. Esteemed in the beauty domain, her content captivates readers with its depth and authenticity. While she navigates a broad spectrum of beauty trends, Ashley shines particularly as our resident K-beauty guru. Her articles are a harmonious blend of passion and profound knowledge, inspiring readers on their unique beauty journeys.

  • Emily Zink

    With ten years in healthcare, Emily Zink bridges adult and pediatric medicine with cosmetic dermatology. A certified Family Nurse Practitioner, she's an expert in treatments like Botox, Dysport, and Sculptra, also diagnosing skincare concerns and offering wellness counseling. Specializing in neuromodulators and dermal fillers, Emily leads injections at her practice.

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