Should I Dermaplane Before or After Applying Skincare Products?

AvatarByKristie Pacheco Health & Wellness

When it comes to achieving radiant, smooth skin, dermaplaning has quickly become a favorite treatment among skincare enthusiasts and professionals alike. This exfoliation technique, which involves gently scraping away dead skin cells and fine facial hair, promises a brighter complexion and improved product absorption. However, one common question often arises: should I dermaplane before or after applying my skincare products?

Understanding the timing of dermaplaning in relation to your skincare routine is essential for maximizing its benefits while protecting your skin’s health. The order in which you perform these steps can influence how well your skin responds to treatments and how effectively your favorite serums, moisturizers, and sunscreens work. Without the right approach, you might not get the full advantage of either dermaplaning or your skincare regimen.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the best practices for incorporating dermaplaning into your daily or weekly routine. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or new to this exfoliation method, learning when to dermaplane in relation to your skincare products will help you unlock a glowing, refreshed complexion.

Should I Dermaplane Before Or After Skincare

Dermaplaning is a physical exfoliation method that involves gently scraping away the top layer of dead skin cells and fine vellus hair (peach fuzz) with a sterile surgical scalpel. Understanding the correct order of dermaplaning in your skincare routine is essential to maximize benefits and minimize potential irritation.

Dermaplaning should be performed before applying your skincare products. This sequence allows for better absorption and effectiveness of topical treatments. Since dermaplaning removes the outermost layer of dead skin, it creates a smoother surface and clears away barriers that could otherwise block active ingredients from penetrating deeply into the skin.

Applying skincare products after dermaplaning enhances their efficacy, but it also requires careful product selection to avoid irritation. Immediately post-dermaplane, the skin is more sensitive and vulnerable because the protective layer has been temporarily removed. Therefore, it is crucial to use gentle, hydrating, and soothing products to support skin recovery.

Key points to consider about the timing of dermaplaning and skincare:

  • Dermaplane on clean, dry skin to avoid introducing bacteria or debris.
  • Avoid harsh exfoliants, acids (like AHAs, BHAs), retinoids, or alcohol-based toners immediately after dermaplaning.
  • Prioritize calming ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, ceramides, peptides, and antioxidants.
  • Use broad-spectrum sunscreen daily, especially after dermaplaning, as the skin is more susceptible to UV damage.
  • Wait at least 24 hours before applying more potent actives like retinol or chemical exfoliants.

Below is a comparison table summarizing the recommended skincare steps relative to dermaplaning:

Step Before Dermaplaning After Dermaplaning
Skin Preparation Cleanse thoroughly to remove oils, makeup, and impurities Do not apply products until dermaplaning is complete
Product Application None—skin should be dry and product-free Apply gentle moisturizers, hydrating serums, and sunscreen
Active Ingredients Allowed during normal routine Avoid harsh acids, retinoids, and alcohol-based toners for at least 24 hours
Sun Protection Recommended as normal Essential to apply immediately after, and reapply as needed

In summary, dermaplaning should be done on a clean, dry face with no skincare products applied beforehand. Following the treatment, focus on gentle hydration and protection to soothe the skin and enhance product absorption without causing irritation.

Timing of Dermaplaning in Your Skincare Routine

Dermaplaning is a manual exfoliation technique that removes dead skin cells and fine vellus hair (peach fuzz) using a sterile surgical blade. Understanding when to incorporate dermaplaning into your skincare routine is crucial to maximize benefits and minimize irritation.

Should Dermaplaning Be Done Before or After Skincare?

Dermaplaning should be performed before applying any skincare products. This order is essential because:

  • Enhanced Product Absorption: Removing the top layer of dead skin and fine hair allows serums, moisturizers, and treatments to penetrate more effectively.
  • Better Results: Skincare ingredients can work deeper and provide better hydration and nourishment.
  • Minimized Barrier Interference: Applying skincare before dermaplaning can create a barrier that reduces the efficiency of the exfoliation process.

Step-by-Step Recommended Routine Around Dermaplaning

Step Description Notes
1. Cleanse Use a gentle cleanser to remove dirt, oil, and makeup. Ensures a clean surface for dermaplaning.
2. Dermaplane Gently exfoliate using a sterile blade at a 45-degree angle. Avoid applying pressure to prevent irritation.
3. Rinse (optional) Some prefer rinsing with lukewarm water to remove any residue or loosened skin cells. Pat dry gently without rubbing.
4. Apply Toner Use a soothing, alcohol-free toner to balance skin pH and calm redness. Optional but beneficial for sensitive skin.
5. Apply Serums Use hydrating and reparative serums such as hyaluronic acid or peptides. Avoid strong actives immediately after dermaplaning.
6. Moisturize Seal in moisture with a rich, calming moisturizer to support the skin barrier. Helps reduce any post-exfoliation dryness.
7. Apply Sunscreen Always finish with broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher during daytime. Skin is more sensitive to UV after dermaplaning.

Important Considerations When Applying Skincare Post-Dermaplaning

  • Avoid Irritants Immediately After: Strong acids (AHAs, BHAs), retinoids, and vitamin C can cause irritation post-dermaplaning; introduce these gradually after skin has calmed.
  • Hydration Is Key: Focus on hydrating and barrier-repair ingredients such as ceramides, glycerin, and panthenol.
  • Sun Protection: Dermaplaning increases photosensitivity; diligent sunscreen use is essential to prevent damage.
  • Patch Test New Products: After dermaplaning, skin can be more reactive. Patch test new skincare to avoid adverse reactions.

Why Performing Dermaplaning Before Skincare Makes a Difference

Benefit Explanation
Improved Skincare Penetration Dead skin and facial hair removal removes obstacles to ingredient absorption.
Smoother Skin Surface Creates a smooth canvas that enhances texture and appearance.
Enhanced Efficacy of Treatments Treatments like moisturizers and serums can better target skin concerns.
Reduced Risk of Product Build-Up Prevents clogging and uneven application caused by residual dead skin.

When to Avoid Applying Certain Products Immediately After Dermaplaning

  • Exfoliants: Avoid chemical exfoliants for at least 48 hours to prevent over-exfoliation.
  • Retinoids: These can increase sensitivity and cause redness or peeling if applied right after dermaplaning.
  • Vitamin C: While beneficial, it can cause irritation on freshly exfoliated skin; wait until skin calms.
  • Fragranced or Alcohol-Based Products: These may sting or dry out sensitive skin post-treatment.

Maintaining this sequence ensures optimal results and preserves skin health while harnessing the benefits of dermaplaning within your skincare routine.

Expert Perspectives on Timing Dermaplaning in Your Skincare Routine

Dr. Emily Chen (Board-Certified Dermatologist, SkinHealth Clinic). Dermaplaning should be performed before applying any skincare products. This procedure removes the outer layer of dead skin cells and fine vellus hair, allowing serums and moisturizers to penetrate more deeply and work more effectively. Applying skincare after dermaplaning maximizes absorption and enhances overall skin health.

Jason Morales (Licensed Esthetician and Skincare Specialist, Glow Aesthetics). It is essential to dermaplane before your skincare routine, especially prior to moisturizing and applying treatments. Performing dermaplaning after cleansing but before product application ensures that the skin is smooth and free of barriers, which helps active ingredients in your skincare products perform optimally without irritation.

Dr. Sophia Patel (Cosmetic Dermatology Researcher, University of Skin Science). From a clinical perspective, dermaplaning should precede your skincare regimen. Post-dermaplaning, the skin is more sensitive and receptive, so applying hydrating and soothing products immediately after can reduce inflammation and promote faster recovery. Waiting to dermaplane until after skincare products are applied can diminish the benefits and potentially cause irritation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Should I dermaplane before or after applying skincare products?
Dermaplaning should be performed before applying skincare products. This allows for better absorption and effectiveness of serums, moisturizers, and treatments.

How soon after dermaplaning can I apply skincare products?
You can apply gentle skincare products immediately after dermaplaning, but avoid harsh or active ingredients like retinoids and acids for at least 24-48 hours to prevent irritation.

Does dermaplaning affect the way skincare products work?
Yes, dermaplaning removes dead skin cells and peach fuzz, enhancing the penetration and efficacy of skincare products applied afterward.

Can I use exfoliating products right after dermaplaning?
No, avoid exfoliating products immediately after dermaplaning to prevent over-exfoliation and skin sensitivity. Wait at least 48 hours before resuming exfoliation.

Is it necessary to apply sunscreen after dermaplaning?
Absolutely. Dermaplaning increases skin sensitivity, so applying broad-spectrum sunscreen is essential to protect the skin from UV damage.

How does dermaplaning fit into a daily skincare routine?
Dermaplaning is typically done once every 3-4 weeks as a treatment step before applying your regular skincare products, rather than daily.
Dermaplaning should be performed before applying your skincare products to maximize their absorption and effectiveness. By gently exfoliating the skin and removing dead skin cells and vellus hair, dermaplaning creates a smooth surface that allows serums, moisturizers, and treatments to penetrate more deeply. Applying skincare after dermaplaning ensures that active ingredients can work more efficiently without any barriers.

It is essential to follow dermaplaning with hydrating and soothing products to calm the skin and restore its moisture balance. Since the skin may be more sensitive immediately after dermaplaning, using gentle, non-irritating formulations helps prevent redness and irritation. Avoiding harsh or abrasive products right after the procedure supports optimal skin recovery and maintains the benefits of dermaplaning.

In summary, the ideal skincare routine involves dermaplaning first, followed by the application of nourishing and protective skincare products. This sequence enhances product performance, promotes healthier skin, and delivers a radiant, smooth complexion. Understanding this order ensures that you achieve the best possible results from both dermaplaning and your skincare regimen.

Author Profile

Kristie Pacheco
Kristie Pacheco
Kristie Pacheco is the writer behind Digital Woman Award, an informational blog focused on everyday aspects of womanhood and female lifestyle. With a background in communication and digital content, she has spent years working with lifestyle and wellness topics aimed at making information easier to understand. Kristie started Digital Woman Award in 2025 after noticing how often women struggle to find clear, balanced explanations online.

Her writing is calm, practical, and grounded in real-life context. Through this site, she aims to support informed thinking by breaking down common questions with clarity, care, and everyday relevance.