What to Expect at a Dermaplaning Facial Appointment
By Luxury All Day Spa Treatment | Published: 2026-10-15
Category: How-to Guides
A step-by-step walkthrough of a dermaplaning facial, from prep and numbing-free exfoliation to aftercare, so your first session feels predictable and calm.
Quick answer
A dermaplaning facial is a 60-minute, no-downtime treatment where a licensed provider uses a precision scalpel to remove dead skin cells and fine vellus hair, often followed by cleansing, an enzyme peel, and a hydrating mask. Arrive with clean, product-free skin, skip exfoliating acids for a few days before, and plan to wear sunscreen afterward. If you want a deeper glow, a dermaplaning session can be paired with a HydraFacial in one visit.
Before you book: who dermaplaning suits and who should pause
Dermaplaning is generally safe for all skin types, but it is not right for everyone on every day. If you have active breakouts, cold sores, or irritated skin, reschedule until your skin is calm. If you use prescription retinoids or have recently had chemical peels or laser treatments, ask your provider how long to wait. The goal is to avoid scraping over compromised skin, which can cause sensitivity or minor nicks.
How to prep in the 48 hours before your appointment
Keep your routine simple. Skip at-home exfoliating scrubs, retinol, and strong acids for at least two days before your visit. On the day of, come with a clean face—no makeup, sunscreen, or heavy moisturizer—so your provider can work on bare skin. If you are prone to cold sores, tell your provider; they may recommend an antiviral beforehand. Also avoid waxing or threading your face in the week leading up, since dermaplaning already removes vellus hair.
What happens during the 60-minute treatment
Your provider will cleanse your skin, then use a sterile, single-use scalpel held at a low angle to gently scrape away dead cells and peach fuzz. You will feel light, feathery strokes—not pain. After dermaplaning, many facials include an enzyme peel and a hydrating mask to calm and nourish the skin. Some providers also offer a neck, shoulder, and hand massage during the mask. The entire appointment takes about an hour, and you leave with no downtime.
Aftercare: the first 24 to 72 hours
Your skin will be more receptive to products, so keep it simple: a gentle cleanser, a barrier-repair moisturizer, and broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher. Avoid retinoids, exfoliating acids, and scrubs for three days. Skip intense workouts, saunas, and steam rooms for 24 hours to prevent irritation. If you notice slight redness, it usually fades within a few hours. Do not pick at any flaking—let it shed naturally.
How often to schedule dermaplaning
Most people benefit from a session every four to six weeks, matching the skin's natural cell turnover cycle. If you are new to dermaplaning, start with one session and see how your skin responds. You can maintain results at home with gentle cleansing and sun protection, but do not attempt to replicate the scalpel technique yourself—professional training matters for safety and even results.
Your dermaplaning appointment, step by step
- 1. Arrive with clean, bare skin: Come to your appointment without makeup, sunscreen, or heavy skincare. This lets your provider assess your skin and begin promptly. Common mistake: wearing makeup and hoping it can be removed quickly—cleansing takes time and may shorten your treatment.
- 2. Discuss your skin history and goals: Tell your provider about any retinoids, acids, recent waxing, or cold sore history. They will adjust the plan or advise waiting. Checkpoint: if you are on prescription retinoids, you may need to pause them for a few days before your session.
- 3. Relax during the dermaplaning pass: Your provider uses a sterile scalpel at a low angle to gently scrape away dead cells and peach fuzz. You will feel light strokes, not pain. Common mistake: tensing up—take slow breaths and let your provider know if you feel any discomfort.
- 4. Enjoy the follow-up mask and massage: After dermaplaning, many facials include an enzyme peel, a hydrating mask, and a neck, shoulder, and hand massage. This calms the skin and enhances the glow. Checkpoint: ask which products are being used so you can avoid duplicates at home.
- 5. Protect and simplify your aftercare: For the next three days, use a gentle cleanser, a barrier-repair moisturizer, and SPF 30 or higher. Skip retinoids, acids, and scrubs. Common mistake: applying active ingredients immediately after—your skin is more permeable and may sting.
Dermaplaning options at our spa
- DERMAPLANING FACIAL: The Dermaplaning Facial is a 60-minute treatment that exfoliates and smooths skin for a radiant glow, removing dead skin cells and fine vellus hair with a precision scalpel, and includes cleansing, an enzyme peel, and a hydrating mask. This is the straightforward entry point if you want smoother skin and better product absorption without adding another treatment.
- DERMAPLANING WITH SIGNATURE HYDRAFACIAL: Dermaplaning with Signature HydraFacial combines dermaplaning with a HydraFacial for deep cleansing, hydration, and a radiant glow, complemented by a soothing Photo Corrective treatment. Choose this if you want a more comprehensive session that pairs physical exfoliation with deep hydration in one appointment.
- MOM’S OASIS: MOM'S OASIS is a curated all-day spa package that includes a 60-minute aromatherapy massage, a wrinkle remedy facial, and a tranquil waters pedicure. If you are booking for someone who prefers a full day of relaxation over a single focused facial, this package covers multiple treatments in one visit.
