Can You Wear Makeup After Dermaplaning? Here’s What You Need to Know

AvatarByKristie Pacheco Makeup & Cosmetics

If you’ve recently tried dermaplaning or are considering this popular skincare treatment, you might be wondering about the best way to care for your skin afterward. One common question that often arises is: can you wear makeup after dermaplane? Understanding how your skin responds post-treatment is essential to maintaining its health and maximizing the benefits of dermaplaning.

Dermaplaning, a gentle exfoliation method that removes dead skin cells and fine vellus hair, leaves the skin looking smooth and radiant. However, because the skin’s surface is freshly exfoliated, it can be more sensitive and vulnerable in the hours following the procedure. This sensitivity raises important considerations about applying makeup, which can sometimes irritate or clog pores if used too soon.

Navigating the balance between enjoying the immediate glow from dermaplaning and protecting your skin’s delicate post-treatment state is key. In the following sections, we’ll explore the best practices for makeup application after dermaplaning, helping you achieve a flawless look without compromising your skin’s recovery.

Wearing Makeup After Dermaplane: What You Need to Know

After dermaplaning, your skin is left exceptionally smooth and exfoliated, but also temporarily more sensitive and vulnerable. This means that while makeup application is possible, certain precautions should be taken to protect your skin and ensure the best results.

Immediately following the procedure, the skin’s barrier is mildly disrupted, which can increase the risk of irritation or clogged pores if heavy or comedogenic products are applied. It is generally recommended to wait at least 24 hours before applying makeup to allow the skin time to recover and minimize potential adverse reactions.

Best Practices for Applying Makeup Post-Dermaplane

When you do choose to wear makeup after dermaplaning, consider the following guidelines to maintain skin health and achieve a flawless finish:

  • Use gentle, non-comedogenic products: Opt for mineral-based foundations or tinted moisturizers that are lightweight and free from heavy oils or silicones.
  • Avoid harsh formulations: Steer clear of products containing alcohol, fragrance, or exfoliating acids immediately post-dermaplane.
  • Apply with clean tools: Use clean brushes or sponges to prevent bacterial contamination, as the skin is more prone to infection after exfoliation.
  • Hydrate and prime: Begin with a soothing, hydrating serum or moisturizer, followed by a calming primer to create a protective barrier.
  • Patch test new products: If trying a new makeup product, test it on a small skin area before full-face application to avoid irritation.
  • Remove makeup gently: At the end of the day, use a mild cleanser and avoid abrasive scrubs to preserve the delicate post-dermaplane skin.

Timing Makeup Application After Dermaplane

The timing of makeup application is crucial to preventing irritation and achieving optimal results. The following table outlines recommended waiting periods based on skin sensitivity and treatment intensity:

Skin Sensitivity Level Recommended Wait Time Before Makeup Notes
Normal to Combination 12–24 hours Minor redness; skin typically calms quickly
Dry or Sensitive 24–48 hours Increased redness and dryness; requires more recovery
Acne-Prone or Reactive 24–48 hours or longer Higher risk of irritation and breakouts; consult a dermatologist

Choosing Makeup Products Suitable for Post-Dermaplane Skin

Selecting the right makeup products can reduce irritation and enhance the skin’s appearance after dermaplaning. Here are product attributes to prioritize:

  • Hypoallergenic and fragrance-free: Minimizes allergic reactions.
  • Non-comedogenic: Prevents pore blockage and breakouts.
  • Lightweight formulas: Allow the skin to breathe and reduce buildup.
  • Mineral-based foundations: Often contain soothing ingredients and provide natural coverage.
  • SPF inclusion: Protects the freshly exfoliated skin from UV damage.

By adhering to these recommendations, makeup can be safely and effectively worn after dermaplaning while supporting the skin’s healing process.

Wearing Makeup After Dermaplaning: Timing and Best Practices

Dermaplaning exfoliates the skin by removing dead skin cells and fine vellus hair, leaving the complexion exceptionally smooth and fresh. However, this process temporarily increases the skin’s sensitivity and permeability. Understanding when and how to wear makeup after dermaplaning is crucial to avoid irritation and maximize the benefits of the treatment.

Immediate Post-Treatment Considerations:

  • Avoid makeup for at least 24 hours: After dermaplaning, the skin’s protective barrier is compromised, making it vulnerable to irritants and potential infections. Applying makeup immediately can clog pores and cause inflammation.
  • Focus on skincare: Opt for gentle, hydrating products such as soothing serums and moisturizers that help repair and calm the skin during this recovery window.
  • Sun protection is essential: The skin is more susceptible to UV damage, so applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 is highly recommended once makeup-free time has passed.

When You Can Resume Makeup Application:

Most dermatologists and skincare professionals agree that makeup can be safely applied approximately 24 to 48 hours after dermaplaning. This timeframe allows the skin to recover from the immediate exfoliation and reduces the risk of irritation.

Time After Dermaplaning Recommended Makeup Guidance Rationale
0-24 hours Avoid makeup entirely Skin barrier is compromised; risk of irritation and infection is highest
24-48 hours Use minimal, non-comedogenic makeup if necessary Skin starts to heal; choose gentle products to minimize irritation
48+ hours Normal makeup routine can generally be resumed Skin barrier is mostly restored; safer to use a wider range of products

Choosing the Right Makeup Products After Dermaplaning

Selecting makeup products that are gentle and supportive of the skin’s healing process will improve comfort and reduce the likelihood of adverse reactions.

  • Non-comedogenic formulas: These products are designed to avoid clogging pores, which is important when skin is freshly exfoliated.
  • Hypoallergenic and fragrance-free: Minimize the risk of irritation by avoiding fragrances, dyes, and harsh chemicals.
  • Mineral-based makeup: Often recommended post-dermaplaning due to their breathable, gentle nature and added sun protection benefits.
  • Liquid or cream foundations: These tend to be more hydrating and less likely to cake on sensitive skin compared to powders.
  • Use clean tools: Always apply makeup with clean brushes or sponges to prevent bacterial contamination.

Additional Tips for Makeup Application Post-Dermaplaning

  • Patch test new products: Before full application, test a small amount on a less visible area to ensure no adverse reaction occurs.
  • Avoid heavy layering: Let your skin breathe by applying thin, even layers of makeup rather than heavy, full coverage.
  • Prioritize hydration: Apply a soothing moisturizer and hydrating primer before makeup to protect the skin’s surface and enhance comfort.
  • Remove makeup gently: Use mild, oil-based or micellar water cleansers to remove makeup without causing irritation or disrupting the skin barrier.

Professional Perspectives on Wearing Makeup After Dermaplaning

Dr. Elena Martinez (Board-Certified Dermatologist, SkinHealth Clinic). After dermaplaning, the skin’s surface is exceptionally smooth but also more sensitive and vulnerable. I recommend waiting at least 24 hours before applying makeup to reduce the risk of irritation and allow the skin barrier to begin its natural healing process.

Jessica Lee (Licensed Esthetician and Skincare Specialist, Glow Aesthetics). While some clients prefer to wear makeup immediately after dermaplaning, I advise using only mineral-based or non-comedogenic products if makeup application is necessary. Ideally, giving the skin a day without makeup helps maintain the treatment’s benefits and prevents clogged pores.

Dr. Marcus Nguyen (Cosmetic Dermatology Researcher, National Skin Institute). Makeup application post-dermaplaning should be approached with caution. The removal of dead skin cells exposes fresh skin that can absorb ingredients more readily, increasing sensitivity. Waiting 24 to 48 hours before applying makeup minimizes potential adverse reactions and supports optimal skin recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can you wear makeup immediately after dermaplaning?
It is generally recommended to wait at least 24 hours before applying makeup to allow your skin to heal and reduce the risk of irritation or infection.

Why should I avoid makeup right after dermaplaning?
Dermaplaning exfoliates the skin, leaving it more sensitive and vulnerable. Applying makeup too soon can clog pores, cause breakouts, or lead to redness and irritation.

What type of makeup is safe to use after dermaplaning?
After the initial healing period, use non-comedogenic, fragrance-free, and mineral-based makeup products to minimize irritation and support skin recovery.

How long should I wait before wearing makeup after dermaplaning?
Waiting at least 24 hours is ideal, but sensitive skin types may benefit from waiting 48 hours to ensure the skin barrier has sufficiently recovered.

Can makeup cause complications after dermaplaning?
Yes, makeup applied too soon can introduce bacteria, clog pores, and exacerbate skin sensitivity, potentially leading to inflammation or breakouts.

How can I prepare my skin for makeup application post-dermaplaning?
Cleanse gently, apply a soothing moisturizer, and use a broad-spectrum sunscreen before makeup to protect and hydrate the skin effectively.
After undergoing a dermaplaning treatment, it is generally advised to avoid wearing makeup immediately to allow the skin sufficient time to heal and recover. Dermaplaning exfoliates the skin by removing dead skin cells and fine vellus hair, leaving the skin more sensitive and vulnerable to irritation. Applying makeup too soon can clog pores, cause irritation, or introduce bacteria to the freshly exfoliated skin, potentially leading to adverse reactions.

Experts typically recommend waiting at least 24 hours before applying makeup post-dermaplane. During this period, it is important to follow a gentle skincare routine that focuses on hydration and protection, such as using soothing moisturizers and broad-spectrum sunscreen. This approach helps maintain the benefits of the treatment while minimizing the risk of inflammation or breakouts.

In summary, while makeup can be worn after dermaplaning, timing and product choice are critical. Prioritizing skin recovery and using non-comedogenic, gentle makeup products will support optimal results and maintain skin health. Consulting with a skincare professional for personalized advice is always beneficial to ensure safe and effective post-treatment care.

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.