If you’d told your younger self that one day you’d be shaving your face on purpose, you probably would’ve laughed. But more and more women, especially over 40, are picking up the razor for one surprising reason: better skin. Dermaplaning, a technique once reserved for the pros, has become a go-to for women looking to smooth their complexion, remove peach fuzz, and get that youthful glow back. And spoiler alert…it’s not weird, it’s wonderful. Let’s break down why dermaplaning is having a major moment and how it might be the skincare step you didn’t know you were missing.
FAQs
- Will shaving my face make the hair grow back thicker or darker? Nope! This is one of the biggest myths. Dermaplaning only removes vellus hair (a.k.a. peach fuzz), which grows back just as soft and fine as before. It won’t change the color, thickness, or speed of your hair growth.
- How often should I dermaplane? For most women, once every 1–2 weeks is perfect. Listen to your skin…if it starts to feel irritated or over-exfoliated, give it a little more time between sessions.
- Can I dermaplane if I have sensitive skin? Yes, but go slow and gentle. Always start with clean, dry skin, use a high-quality facial razor, and follow with a soothing, hydrating product. If you have active acne, eczema, or rosacea, check with a dermatologist first.
- Should I dermaplane before or after applying skincare products? Before! Dermaplaning is best done on clean, dry skin. Afterward, your skin will absorb serums and moisturizers more effectively, so it’s the perfect time to load up on hydration and nutrients.
- What kind of razor should I use? Look for a razor specifically made for the face. These are usually small, single-blade tools designed for safety and precision. (Bonus points if it’s cute and easy to hold.)
What is Dermaplaning?
Dermaplaning is an exfoliation process of skimming off the dead skin cells and hair from your face. Dermplaning is best done by a professional such as an aesthetician or dermatologist.
But there is a trend of women shaving their faces at home. This is a lower level of dermaplaning that can be done carefully by yourself. With the right tools and knowledge, you can safely learn how to do it yourself.
Why are Women Shaving Their Faces?
Why would women want to shave their faces? Isn’t that something that men only do? Not anymore! Women can get soft and smooth skin just as men can! But the great thing is that women’s facial hair (vellus hair) doesn’t grow back thicker or darker. It will grow back just as it was before.
Have you ever seen a woman that has a lot of fuzzy hair under your nose and thought she should get rid of it? Or have you ever noticed that you are looking a little fuzzy when you look at yourself in the mirror? It’s normal for women’s faces to have peach fuzz and some of us have more than others. But we don’t have to just bare with it. We can get rid of it so your face feels and looks nice and smooth.
Should All Women Shave Their Face?
If you have eczema, rosacea, psoriasis, or acne it’s best to avoid shaving your face. Doing so can irritate your skin. It’s best to wait for your skin to clear up before shaving your face.
What are the Risks of Shaving Your Face?
Most women think that if you shave your face, your hair will grow back thicker and darker. It’s a myth. It’s not true! Since the hair on women’s faces is vellus hair, it will grow back the exact same way it was before shaving. So there is no risk in shaving and having thicker and darker facial hair grow back.
But there are a few legit risks:
- Cutting your face if you’re not careful with the blade.
- Scarring if you cut your face.
- Creating ingrown hairs if you go against the hair growth.
- Creating micro cuts that can cause bacteria to enter your skin layers and then causing blemishes.
But if you are careful and follow good sanitation, you won’t have to worry about these risks.
Benefits of Dermaplaning
There are so many benefits to dermaplaning and shaving your face! Here are a few of the benefits:
- It will remove the dead skin cells from your face.
- It will help your skincare products absorb better into your skin.
- It will help your makeup apply better.
- It will help your face look smoother.
- It will help your face feel smoother.
The Steps to Shave Your Face
Now that you understand what dermaplaning is and why you should add it into your skincare routine, here are the steps for doing it at home:
- Start with a clean face.
- Use a clean facial razor.
- You can do it on dry skin or use an oil cleanser to help the blade slide smoother.
- Place the razor at a 45 degree angle.
- Work in small sections on your face and move the blade in the direction of your hair growth.
- Make sure your skin is taut. You may need to use your other hand to tighten the skin in certain areas on your face.
- Wipe your face with a clean wet cloth and finish your skincare routine (toner, serum, moisturizer).
- Either toss your razor or sanitize it with rubbing alcohol for one more use.
It’s very important that if you choose to shave your face at home, that you follow a few steps so that you won’t harm yourself or cause breakouts:
- Always start with a clean face and clean hands.
- Only use a razor once or twice. If you use it twice, sanitize it between uses with alcohol.
- Use a steady hand and taut skin to avoid cutting your face.
The Best Facial Razors to Use for Dermaplaning
Which facial razors are best to use?? I went to Amazon and researched the best rated razors and bought a bunch! Here are the best facial razors to use at home:
- Tinkle Razor– These razors are the most popular by far! They’re rated a 4.6 at 135k reviews and they’re only 66 cents per razor. They’re a great disposable option that can be used once.
- Dermaplaning Tool– These are rated a 4.4 with over 18k reviews. They are $1 per razor. I love that they have an adjustable blade so you can get different angles easily.
- Tweezerman Facial Razor– This razor is rated a 4.6 with over 4k reviews. It’s a stainless steel tool that can switch out the blade. It comes with 3 blades and is about $5 per blade. It’s a more expensive option but I feel like this one is the most legit DIY dermaplaning tool. It feels sturdy and can be used multiple times as long as you sanitize the blade in between uses. (this is my personal favorite!)
- Battery Facial Razor– This razor is rated 4.4 with 142k reviews. It’s $20 and is the most cost effective option because you can use the razor over and over and just need to replace the batteries. It’s best to lightly spray it with alcohol in between uses to sanitize the tool.
So, no…you’re not turning into your husband. You’re simply giving your skin the love it deserves. Dermaplaning is a simple, affordable, and surprisingly satisfying way to level up your skincare routine and help your products work even better. Plus, your makeup? It’ll glide on like a dream. Whether you try it at home or book an appointment with a pro, consider this your permission slip to grab the razor. Because glowing, confident skin never goes out of style.
Here are some other blog posts you might enjoy:
- All About Seint Makeup
- Unlock Radiant Skin with Oliveda’s Skincare
- How to Get Smooth Skin: Best Exfoliator for Face
- Basic Nightly Skincare Routine
- Clear Skin Tips
- Sculpt and Renew: How Gua Sha Tools Can Naturally Transform Your Face
- Which Oliveda Elixir Should You Use? My Guide to Glowing, Waterless Skin
About the Author
JoEllen is a licensed esthetician, certified makeup artist, and certified John Maxwell coach, speaker, and trainer. She works with women helping them look and feel confident. She loves teaching women simple beauty techniques so they can feel empowered to try it at home. Her motto is that when you look and feel good, you do good!
*This post contains affiliate links. If you choose to purchase an item featured in this post, I get a small portion from the sale. Thank you! It does not affect you at all.
