Hailee Myers
LE, CLT Esthetician & Laser Technician
Scottsdale, Arizona
Hi there! I’m Hailee Myers, an esthetician at Alani Skin MD in Scottsdale, AZ, and I’m here to share everything you need to know about dermaplaning. Whether you’re looking to clear away dead skin, reduce congestion and texture, or just get that fresh, glowing look, dermaplaning is an excellent option to consider.
What is Dermaplaning?
Let’s start with the basics: dermaplaning is a form of manual exfoliation. Using a sterile surgical scalpel, we gently remove 2-3 weeks’ worth of dead skin cells along with fine vellus hair—aka peach fuzz. It might sound a little intense, but trust me, it’s a safe and minimally invasive procedure when done by a trained esthetician. Think of it like a deep shave for your face, but with a lot more precision!
I know some people find the idea of using a scalpel on their face a bit scary, but with the right technique, it’s super effective and safe. I always use a fresh, sterile blade for each session, and after the procedure, everything is properly disposed of in biohazard containers. I’m meticulous about hygiene and safety, so you can trust that you’re in good hands!
Why is Dermaplaning so Popular in Scottsdale?
Scottsdale is a hot spot for skincare trends, and dermaplaning is no exception! I see so many clients who are worried about fine lines, dry skin, and that feeling of “gunk” buildup. Most people are constantly packing on moisturizer in this dry weather and forget the importance of exfoliating, resulting in congested skin—and that’s where dermaplaning really makes a difference. It helps clear away the dead skin, allowing your skincare products to penetrate more effectively.
Dermaplaning has also blown up on social media. Many estheticians post satisfying videos showing the amount of dead skin and peach fuzz removed, leaving smoother, brighter skin underneath. Clients often gasp when they see what comes off during a session, and once they experience that fresh feeling, they’re hooked!
Hailee’s Approach: Precision and Safety First
Before I even pick up a scalpel, I take time to thoroughly assess each client’s skin. I’ll pinch and stretch the skin to gauge elasticity and check for any areas of texture, sensitivity, or other conditions. This step is crucial because not everyone is an ideal candidate for dermaplaning. If you’re dealing with active acne, heavy texture, or issues like broken capillaries, dermaplaning might not be the best choice right away.
I always tell my clients that dermaplaning isn’t something you want to do without a careful eye. In fact, if someone is willing to pick up a scalpel without examining your skin first, they probably shouldn’t be performing dermaplaning. This procedure requires experience, skill, and a deep understanding of skin types to deliver safe, effective results.
The Benefits of Dermaplaning
The results from dermaplaning are instant. Your skin feels incredibly smooth, your makeup goes on flawlessly, and your skincare products—like moisturizers, serums, and treatments—work better because they can penetrate more deeply. Another big perk? It removes that peach fuzz that so many of us have but don’t really love.
After a dermaplaning session, you’ll notice your skin is brighter, softer, and more refreshed. It’s the perfect treatment if you want to look your best, especially in a city like Scottsdale where glowing skin is always in style.
Who’s a Good Candidate for Dermaplaning?
Dermaplaning works wonders for most skin types, but it’s not for everyone. If you’ve got active acne, severe rosacea, or heavily textured skin, I might recommend holding off or trying a different treatment first. The procedure works best for people with clear skin who are looking to enhance their natural glow or reduce congestion.
If someone has a lot of texture, like bumps or pitted acne scars, I’ll usually recommend addressing those concerns first with other treatments, like DiamondGlow or other result driven procedures. I won’t dermaplane over acne or heavily textured areas because it could do more harm than good. But once the skin is clear, dermaplaning can help maintain that smooth, glowing complexion.
What to Expect During a Dermaplaning Session
When you come in for a dermaplaning session, I’ll start by cleansing your skin and applying a light oil to help the scalpel glide smoothly across your face. Some estheticians prefer to dermaplane dry, but I find using a bit of oil makes the process much more comfortable for you.
I’ll use the scalpel in gentle, upward motions to remove dead skin and peach fuzz, making sure to take extra care around sensitive areas like the cheeks and jawline. It’s not painful at all—in fact, many of my clients find it quite relaxing. Once we’re done, I’ll tone your skin to disinfect it, then move on to any additional treatments you’ve booked.
Aftercare and Recovery
After your dermaplaning session, your skin will feel incredibly smooth and refreshed. You’ll want to keep it that way by using hydrating and reparative products—nothing too harsh. Avoid chemical exfoliants for at least 24 hours to give your skin time to heal. Your top layer of skin regenerates quickly, so there’s really no downtime with dermaplaning, which is one of the reasons it’s so popular!
For best results, I always recommend medical-grade skincare products. These products are formulated to penetrate deeper and nourish your skin in ways that over-the-counter products can’t. However, if you prefer to stick with what you have at home, a good moisturizer will still help keep your skin hydrated after the treatment.
Potential Risks and Safety
While dermaplaning is a safe and minimally invasive procedure, it’s important to go to a qualified esthetician who understands your skin type and needs. You don’t want just anyone wielding a scalpel on your face! I take the time to assess each client’s skin before starting, because not everyone is a candidate. I look for signs of sensitivity, texture, and overall skin health to make sure the treatment will be effective and safe.
Now, we’re all human, so yes, there’s a small chance of nicking the skin. If your skin is highly textured or if you have acne scars, there’s also the risk of minor cuts, but this is rare when done by a skilled professional. Post-treatment, the most common issue is dryness, so keeping your skin moisturized is key. Overall, it’s a very low-risk treatment as long as it’s done by someone experienced.
DIY Dermaplaning vs. Professional Treatment
I know some people are tempted to dermaplane at home using those little razors you can find online or at the store. While these tools can be handy for small touch-ups, they aren’t the same as a professional dermaplaning treatment. Those “twinkle razors” can create tiny paper cuts on your skin, and without the proper technique, you won’t get the same level of exfoliation.
There’s real value in having a licensed esthetician perform the treatment. We use sterile, surgical blades that are designed for precision and safety. Plus, I can assess your skin’s needs in real-time and make adjustments as necessary. You’ll get a more thorough, professional result—and you won’t have to worry about any mishaps!
Cost & Value: Is Dermaplaning Worth It?
At Alani Skin MD, we offer dermaplaning as a standalone treatment for $50, or you can add it to another service for just $30. It’s a great investment in your skin’s health, especially since it helps your skincare products penetrate more deeply. Whether you’re preparing for a special event or just want to maintain that smooth, glowing complexion, I believe dermaplaning is absolutely worth it.
For many of my clients, dermaplaning becomes a regular part of their skincare routine. You’ll start to notice how much better your makeup looks, how much smoother your skin feels, and how much more effective your skincare products are.
How Often Should You Dermaplane?
I typically recommend getting dermaplaning every 4-6 weeks to maintain the best results. For clients with very dry or sensitive skin, we might stretch that out to every 2-3 months. During Scottsdale’s cooler, drier months, we’ll reassess and adjust the treatment frequency based on how your skin is reacting to the weather.
What Sets Us Apart?
At Alani Skin MD, I’m known for being very detail-oriented (okay, maybe a little OCD!). I make sure to get every nook and cranny of your face, taking care to adjust your head and position so I can reach every spot safely and effectively. Every client’s bone structure is different, so it’s important to tailor the treatment to each person’s unique features.
All of the estheticians here prioritize safety above all else, and we’re meticulous about making sure you leave with the smooth, glowing skin you’re after. If you’re in Scottsdale and want the best dermaplaning experience, you’re in good hands with us.
Contact us today to learn more about what we can do for you!
