Dermaplaning has quickly become one of the most requested skin treatments in-clinic. And now, thanks to social media and the launch of several dermaplaning tools, many of us are getting in on the skin-shaving action at home, too.
Popular among the celebrity circuit—Gwyneth Paltrow and Eva Mendes are big advocates of dermaplaning—it promises to bolster glow and create a smooth canvas for makeup, making it go-to treatment for many stars prior to red-carpet events. And while the celebs likely leave dermaplaning in the hands of the experts, more and more of us are giving it a go at home.
On TikTok, the hashtag #dermaplaning has reeled in 4.1 billion views (and counting), with many users showcasing how it’s done as well as the results. Tempted to try? Before you reach for any old razor, read our expert guide on DIY dermaplaning and the best tools for the job, as tested by us.
Meet the experts on dermaplaning
- Dr. Sophie Shotter is a multi-award-winning aesthetic doctor and founder of Illuminate Skin Clinic in Kent. She has over a decade of medical experience and is famous for her natural-looking injectables.
- Dr. David Jack is a London-based aesthetic doctor who practices at his clinic on Harley Street as well as his clinic in Belgravia. His "Egyptian Facial", which he’s been offering for more than eight years, incorporates dermaplaning.
Dr. Sophie Shotter is a multi-award-winning aesthetic doctor and founder of Illuminate Skin Clinic in Kent. She has over a decade of medical experience and is famous for her natural-looking injectables.
Dr. David Jack is a London-based aesthetic doctor who practices at his clinic on Harley Street as well as his clinic in Belgravia. His "Egyptian Facial", which he’s been offering for more than eight years, incorporates dermaplaning.
Your guide to dermaplaning
What is dermaplaning?
"Dermaplaning is a manual exfoliation technique that involves using a surgical scalpel to exfoliate the top layer of dead skin cells and fine vellus hairs," explains Dr. Jack.
And it’s the removal of fine vellus hairs (that’s peach fuzz, to you and me) that leaves the skin feeling and looking silky smooth.
Is dermaplaning good for your skin?
According to Dr. Jack, this non-invasive procedure leaves skin “brighter and more radiant with a smoother texture and more even skin tone."
Dr. Shotter agrees, adding that the removal of dead skin cells and vellus hairs also allows skincare products to penetrate deeper.
What is the downside of dermaplaning?
"One obvious downside is that the use of a blade, even by a professional, can lead to small nicks and cuts," warns Dr. Shotter. It’s worth nothing though, that in the hands of a qualified practitioner—this is extremely rare.
"Individuals with active acne may experience further breakouts and irritation, so should steer clear of this treatment," she continues. Aside from that, there are no major side effects, other than a little redness directly after the procedure and very mild dryness.
Is dermaplaning basically shaving?
Dr. Shotter assures that the professional treatment is different "as it uses a proper surgical blade with expert precision to remove dead skin cells." However, at-home dermaplaning devices are essentially facial razors, she says.
Do you get stubble after dermaplaning?
"No, not if you are only using it for treating vellus hair," says Dr. Shotter. "It shouldn’t be used as a treatment option for those with thicker hair, such as we often see in polycystic ovarian syndrome, as this type of hair could leave stubble behind."
Can dermaplaning remove upper lip hair?
“If it is baby hair then yes, potentially,” says Dr. Shotter. If, however, the hair is thick, She recommends other hair removal treatments like laser hair removal or waxing for longer-lasting results.
Can I dermaplane myself?
In short, yes you can. But as with most cosmetic treatments, the results are far better when you visit a clinic. "In-clinic treatments will always be done using laser-cut scalpel blades, whereas at-home treatments tend to use machine-cut blades which are less sharp (and less effective) but safe to be sold to the public," points out Dr. Jack. "In the clinic, dermaplaning is also combined with an exfoliating peel for added skin benefits."
How to use a dermaplaning razor?
Make sure the skin is thoroughly cleansed first. Then, “holding the razor at a 45-degree angle, gently glide it across the skin in short, downward strokes," says Dr. Jack. Avoid applying too much pressure and always move the razor in the direction of hair growth to minimize the risk of irritation and ingrown hairs.
Finish by applying a soothing moisturizer and your best face sunscreen. "This will help maintain the skin’s moisture barrier and protect it from potential sun damage," Dr. Jack adds.
Any tips for dermaplaning aftercare?
It’s best to avoid wearing makeup for 24 hours after dermaplaning. "Aftercare is superbly simple," says Dr. Jack, “keep the skin clean and use a little more serum than normal (particularly vitamin C or hyaluronic acid serums), as they will penetrate better into the skin than normal."
The best at-home dermaplaning razors, reviewed by a beauty expert
How we tested the best at-home dermaplaning razors
To curate our edit of the best dermaplaning razors, we tested dozens of different tools varying in price point—marking them on the below factors:
- Blade: the razor had to have a sharp, single-edge blade that moved over skin easily without causing nicks.
- Material: We sought out blades made from high-quality stainless steel that are durable and sharp.
- Handle design: "Look for a razor with an ergonomic handle that provides a comfortable grip,” advises Dr. Jack. "This will allow you to manoeuvre the razor easily and maintain a steady hand while working on delicate areas of your face."
I'm a beauty journalist with over five years industry experience and have had the opportunity to try several different treatments in-clinic, including dermaplaning. I’ve also experimented with dermaplaning at-home and often use a razor to remove upper lip hair in-between laser hair removal appointments.
After testing several at-home dermaplaning razors, I have found a selection that really work (the Tweezerman tool being my favorite) and are totally foolproof.
MEET THE TESTER
Emma Stoddart , Freelance beauty editor
I'm a beauty journalist with over five years industry experience and have had the opportunity to try several different treatments in-clinic, including dermaplaning. I’ve also experimented with dermaplaning at-home and often use a razor to remove upper lip hair in-between laser hair removal appointments.
After testing several at-home dermaplaning razors, I have found a selection that really work (the Tweezerman tool being my favorite) and are totally foolproof.
The best at-home dermaplaning razors
If you’re after a pro-level dermaplaning razor that delivers seriously smooth results, turn your face to Tweezerman’s Facial Razor. Stealing my number one spot, this stainless-steel tool feels heavy and looks luxurious (hence the slightly higher price point than some of the other tools listed here). Ergonomically designed for easy handling, it glides over the skin with ease.
While lots of facial razors tend to be blunt, this one isn’t. The super sharp, single-blade expertly removes dead skin cells and baby vellus hair for a fuzz-free finish that’s actually fuzz-free. On my first testing, I was blown away by the smooth results—something I’d only previously experienced from threading or waxing. Oh, and the best part? It comes with two spare blades.
Another top dermaplaning tool, this was my original go-to before I discovered Tweezerman. The slimline product, which features a retractable razor, is perfect for travel as the razor is protected and it takes up barely any suitcase space. Double win! To use, I apply a little facial oil before holding skin taut and moving the razor in short, downward strokes.
For the first few uses (be sure to thoroughly clean the razor in-between uses), I was impressed with the results. My skin looked brighter, felt smoother and my makeup sat better. But with continued use, I found that the razor became less and less effective and needed replacing. While this is to be expected after a while, I was hoping the tool would last a little longer considering the price point.
British makeup artist and founder of skincare brand Votary, Arabella Preston launched the Magic Razor Wands after a team Zoom call comparing mustache-removal-mishaps. Designed to be gentle yet effective, the blades are crafted from high-grade Swedish stainless steel and are sharp enough to remove peach fuzz, stray eyebrow hairs and upper lip hair without causing irritation (or nicks and cuts).
Seriously sleek, I was instantly won over by the Magic Razor Wands for looks alone. The muted handle, that’s made from 80% wheat straw, will suit any bathroom interior while reducing your plastic consumption. Looks aside, the tools effortlessly glide over the skin, removing facial hair in seconds. The only downside is the price point, which is considerably higher than others, but you do get three tools included (so it’s essentially $9 per Wand).
If you’re after a purse-friendly pick that won’t break the bank, give these razors from Brushworks a whirl. Although named Eyebrow Razors, these tools can also be used to safely remove peach fuzz, upper lip hair, bikini hair as well as dead skin cells. While the razors are affordable, I do believe that you get what you pay for, and these tools are less effective (and not as sharp) as the others I’ve featured here.
I found that when using the razor, I had to go over the same area multiple times to remove all peach fuzz which ultimately led to irritation and dryness. The design also isn’t as user-friendly as other dermaplaning razors listed here. It doesn’t fit the contours of the face and it’s tricky to reach certain areas. With that said, it does get easier to use with practice and the tool has a foldable design that’s travel-friendly.
If you often find yourself losing tweezers or tools, invest in this 12-pack of dermaplaning razors from beauty brand Kitsch. Reasonably priced (considering how many razors you get), this pack is a great pick for anyone new to dermaplaning. While the blades are not as sharp as others I’ve tried (Tweezerman, I’m looking at you), this does mean that the chances of cuts and nicks are reduced.
To use, I recommend cleaning skin with a cleansing oil before gliding the tool over the facial contours in short strokes. Try to avoid going over the same area multiple times and if you find that the blade has become blunt, just move onto another razor from the pack. Made from plant-based fibres, these tools are also eco-friendly as they don’t contribute to plastic waste (a big tick).
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