Dermaplaning doesn’t come with the downtime of more aggressive treatments, but that doesn’t mean your skin is completely back to normal the moment you leave the treatment room. The top layer of dead skin is gone, which means what’s underneath is a little more exposed and a little more sensitive for the next few days. Here’s what to expect and how to take care of your skin in the days after treatment.
What to Expect in the First 24-48 Hours
Immediately After Treatment
Right after a session, skin often looks noticeably smoother and brighter – this is one of the reasons dermaplaning is popular before events or photos. Some people notice mild redness immediately afterward, similar to a light flush, which usually settles within a few hours.
The Following Day or Two
Because the outer layer of dead skin has been removed, skin can feel slightly more sensitive than usual for a day or two. This is normal and expected, not a sign that anything went wrong. Skin may also absorb skincare products more readily than usual during this window, which is worth keeping in mind when choosing what to apply.
Sun Exposure and SPF
Why Sun Protection Matters More Right Now
Freshly exfoliated skin is more vulnerable to UV damage than usual, since the protective outer layer that normally helps shield deeper layers has just been removed. Sunburn or sun damage is easier to develop during this window than it would be on unexfoliated skin.
What to Do
Apply broad-spectrum SPF the morning after treatment (and every day, really) and try to limit direct, prolonged sun exposure for at least a few days afterward. If you know you have a treatment booked, it’s worth planning around any big outdoor plans rather than scheduling dermaplaning right before a beach day or afternoon in direct sun.
Products to Avoid Immediately After
Active Ingredients
Skip retinoids, exfoliating acids (like glycolic or salicylic acid), and other active ingredients for a few days post-treatment. Since the skin barrier is already slightly more exposed, layering strong actives on top can cause irritation that wouldn’t normally happen.
Heavy Fragrance or Alcohol-Based Products
Products with strong fragrance or high-alcohol content can sting or irritate freshly treated skin more than they would otherwise. Simpler, gentler formulations are the better choice for the first couple of days.
Makeup, With Some Caution
Many people actually apply makeup right after dermaplaning since the smoother surface helps it sit better – this is fine for most people, but if your skin feels unusually sensitive, it’s reasonable to wait a few hours or opt for a lighter application that day.
When to Reintroduce Your Normal Routine
The First Few Days
Stick to a simple routine: gentle cleanser, basic moisturizer, and SPF during the day. This gives your skin a chance to settle without adding unnecessary variables.
Getting Back to Normal
Most people can fully return to their regular skincare routine, including actives like retinoids or acids, within about 3 to 5 days – though this can vary based on your skin’s sensitivity and how your provider advises you specifically. If you’re ever unsure, it’s always reasonable to ask your provider for a timeline based on your skin type before you leave your appointment.
Final Thoughts
Dermaplaning aftercare isn’t complicated, but a few simple precautions in the first few days make a real difference in how your skin looks and feels afterward. The short version: protect your skin from the sun, keep your routine simple for a few days, and hold off on strong actives until your skin has had time to settle. Most people are back to their normal routine within less than a week, with smoother, brighter-looking skin to show for it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I wear makeup right after dermaplaning?
Yes, for most people. The smoother skin surface after dermaplaning is actually one of the reasons people book the treatment before an event, since makeup tends to apply more evenly afterward. If your skin feels unusually sensitive, it’s fine to wait a few hours or apply lighter makeup that day.
How long does redness last after dermaplaning?
Any mild redness typically settles within a few hours of treatment. If redness persists beyond a day or seems more significant than a light flush, it’s worth checking in with your provider.
Can I exercise or sweat after dermaplaning?
Light activity is generally fine, but many providers suggest avoiding heavy sweating for the first day, since sweat can irritate freshly treated skin. If in doubt, ask your provider what they recommend based on your specific skin.
When can I use retinol again after dermaplaning?
Most people can safely reintroduce retinol and other active ingredients within 3 to 5 days, though your provider may give you a more specific timeline based on how your skin typically reacts.
Do I need to change my skincare routine after every dermaplaning session?
Only temporarily. The gentle, simplified routine is meant for the first few days after each session – once your skin has settled, you can go back to your normal products until your next appointment.
Dermaplaning doesn’t come with the downtime of more aggressive treatments, but that doesn’t mean your skin is completely back to normal the moment you leave the treatment room. The top layer of dead skin is gone, which means what’s underneath is a little more exposed and a little more sensitive for the next few days. Here’s what to expect and how to take care of your skin in the days after treatment.
What to Expect in the First 24-48 Hours
Immediately After Treatment
Right after a session, skin often looks noticeably smoother and brighter – this is one of the reasons dermaplaning is popular before events or photos. Some people notice mild redness immediately afterward, similar to a light flush, which usually settles within a few hours.
The Following Day or Two
Because the outer layer of dead skin has been removed, skin can feel slightly more sensitive than usual for a day or two. This is normal and expected, not a sign that anything went wrong. Skin may also absorb skincare products more readily than usual during this window, which is worth keeping in mind when choosing what to apply.
Sun Exposure and SPF
Why Sun Protection Matters More Right Now
Freshly exfoliated skin is more vulnerable to UV damage than usual, since the protective outer layer that normally helps shield deeper layers has just been removed. Sunburn or sun damage is easier to develop during this window than it would be on unexfoliated skin.
What to Do
Apply broad-spectrum SPF the morning after treatment (and every day, really) and try to limit direct, prolonged sun exposure for at least a few days afterward. If you know you have a treatment booked, it’s worth planning around any big outdoor plans rather than scheduling dermaplaning right before a beach day or afternoon in direct sun.
Products to Avoid Immediately After
Active Ingredients
Skip retinoids, exfoliating acids (like glycolic or salicylic acid), and other active ingredients for a few days post-treatment. Since the skin barrier is already slightly more exposed, layering strong actives on top can cause irritation that wouldn’t normally happen.
Heavy Fragrance or Alcohol-Based Products
Products with strong fragrance or high-alcohol content can sting or irritate freshly treated skin more than they would otherwise. Simpler, gentler formulations are the better choice for the first couple of days.
Makeup, With Some Caution
Many people actually apply makeup right after dermaplaning since the smoother surface helps it sit better – this is fine for most people, but if your skin feels unusually sensitive, it’s reasonable to wait a few hours or opt for a lighter application that day.
When to Reintroduce Your Normal Routine
The First Few Days
Stick to a simple routine: gentle cleanser, basic moisturizer, and SPF during the day. This gives your skin a chance to settle without adding unnecessary variables.
Getting Back to Normal
Most people can fully return to their regular skincare routine, including actives like retinoids or acids, within about 3 to 5 days – though this can vary based on your skin’s sensitivity and how your provider advises you specifically. If you’re ever unsure, it’s always reasonable to ask your provider for a timeline based on your skin type before you leave your appointment.
Final Thoughts
Dermaplaning aftercare isn’t complicated, but a few simple precautions in the first few days make a real difference in how your skin looks and feels afterward. The short version: protect your skin from the sun, keep your routine simple for a few days, and hold off on strong actives until your skin has had time to settle. Most people are back to their normal routine within less than a week, with smoother, brighter-looking skin to show for it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I wear makeup right after dermaplaning?
Yes, for most people. The smoother skin surface after dermaplaning is actually one of the reasons people book the treatment before an event, since makeup tends to apply more evenly afterward. If your skin feels unusually sensitive, it’s fine to wait a few hours or apply lighter makeup that day.
How long does redness last after dermaplaning?
Any mild redness typically settles within a few hours of treatment. If redness persists beyond a day or seems more significant than a light flush, it’s worth checking in with your provider.
Can I exercise or sweat after dermaplaning?
Light activity is generally fine, but many providers suggest avoiding heavy sweating for the first day, since sweat can irritate freshly treated skin. If in doubt, ask your provider what they recommend based on your specific skin.
When can I use retinol again after dermaplaning?
Most people can safely reintroduce retinol and other active ingredients within 3 to 5 days, though your provider may give you a more specific timeline based on how your skin typically reacts.
Do I need to change my skincare routine after every dermaplaning session?
Only temporarily. The gentle, simplified routine is meant for the first few days after each session – once your skin has settled, you can go back to your normal products until your next appointment.
