Can You Put Makeup On Right After Dermaplaning?

AvatarByKristie Pacheco Makeup & Cosmetics

Dermaplaning has rapidly gained popularity as a skincare treatment that promises smoother, brighter skin by gently exfoliating dead skin cells and removing fine facial hair. If you’re considering this procedure or have recently experienced it, you might be wondering about the best way to care for your skin afterward—especially when it comes to your makeup routine. Can you put makeup on after dermaplane? This common question reflects the balance many seek between maintaining their glowing complexion and continuing their daily beauty rituals.

Understanding how dermaplaning affects your skin’s sensitivity and barrier is key to knowing when and how to apply makeup post-treatment. Since dermaplaning involves a form of physical exfoliation, it temporarily leaves your skin more vulnerable to irritation and environmental factors. This delicate state means that timing and product choice become crucial considerations for anyone eager to get back to their makeup routine without compromising the benefits of the treatment.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the essential guidelines and expert recommendations for makeup application after dermaplaning. Whether you’re aiming to enhance your natural glow immediately or prefer to wait before applying cosmetics, gaining insight into post-dermaplane skincare will help you make informed decisions that support your skin’s health and radiance.

Best Practices for Applying Makeup After Dermaplaning

After dermaplaning, your skin is particularly sensitive and more receptive to products due to the removal of dead skin cells and fine vellus hair. This means that while you can apply makeup, it’s crucial to follow certain best practices to avoid irritation or compromised results.

First, allow your skin some time to recover before applying any makeup. Dermatologists generally recommend waiting at least 24 hours after dermaplaning before using foundation or heavy makeup products. This waiting period helps reduce the risk of clogged pores, redness, and irritation.

When you do apply makeup post-dermaplane, consider the following guidelines:

  • Use gentle, non-comedogenic products: Choose makeup formulated for sensitive skin to prevent breakouts.
  • Avoid heavy or cakey foundations: Lightweight, breathable formulas such as tinted moisturizers or mineral powders are preferable.
  • Apply with clean tools: Ensure that brushes and sponges are sanitized to minimize bacterial transfer.
  • Incorporate a hydrating primer: This can create a protective barrier and improve makeup adherence without irritating the skin.
  • Limit the use of active ingredients: Avoid makeup containing retinoids, alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), or other exfoliants immediately after dermaplaning.

Recommended Makeup Products and Ingredients Post-Dermaplane

Certain ingredients and product types are more suitable after dermaplaning, as they soothe and protect the skin rather than exacerbate sensitivity. Here is a table outlining ideal and potentially harmful ingredients to consider when selecting makeup products for post-dermaplane application:

Product Feature Recommended To Avoid
Foundation Type Mineral powder, tinted moisturizer, BB cream Heavy cream foundation, full-coverage cakey formulas
Ingredients Hyaluronic acid, glycerin, ceramides, niacinamide Alcohol, fragrance, retinol, AHAs, parabens
Primer Hydrating, silicone-based primers Mattifying primers with drying agents
Application Tools Clean brushes, disposable sponges Dirty or shared applicators

Tips to Minimize Irritation When Wearing Makeup Post-Dermaplane

Even when following recommended guidelines, some sensitivity may occur. To minimize discomfort and maintain skin health, incorporate these tips into your post-dermaplane makeup routine:

  • Patch test new products: Especially if your skin is prone to reactions, test makeup on a small area before full-face application.
  • Avoid heavy layering: Build coverage gradually to avoid clogging pores or overwhelming the skin.
  • Keep makeup removal gentle: Use mild, non-abrasive cleansers and avoid harsh scrubbing at the end of the day.
  • Hydrate skin beforehand: Apply a soothing moisturizer or serum to reinforce the skin’s barrier.
  • Protect from sun exposure: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen as the skin is more vulnerable to UV damage after dermaplaning.

By adhering to these practices, you can safely enjoy the benefits of makeup application while preserving the smooth, radiant results of dermaplaning.

Can You Put Makeup On After Dermaplane?

After dermaplaning, the skin undergoes a gentle exfoliation process that removes dead skin cells and fine facial hair (peach fuzz), revealing a smoother and more radiant surface. However, this exfoliation also temporarily increases skin sensitivity and permeability. Understanding when and how to apply makeup after dermaplaning is crucial to avoid irritation and achieve the best results.

Immediate Post-Dermaplane Makeup Application:

It is generally recommended to wait at least 24 hours before applying makeup following a dermaplane treatment. The reasons include:

  • Skin Sensitivity: The skin’s barrier is temporarily compromised, making it more prone to irritation and redness.
  • Risk of Infection: Open microchannels created by the dermaplane blade increase susceptibility to bacteria if makeup is applied too soon.
  • Product Absorption: The skin absorbs topical products more rapidly post-dermaplaning, which can lead to irritation if makeup contains harsh chemicals or fragrances.

Some professionals may allow very light, mineral-based makeup immediately after the procedure, but this should be discussed with your skincare provider.

Best Practices for Applying Makeup After Dermaplane

Consideration Recommendation
Timing Wait at least 24 hours before applying any makeup to allow the skin to recover.
Product Type Use mineral-based, non-comedogenic, and fragrance-free makeup products to minimize irritation.
Application Method Apply makeup gently using clean tools, avoiding harsh rubbing or layering.
Skin Preparation Moisturize with a calming, hydrating serum or cream before makeup application.
Sun Protection Always apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen as the last step in your skincare routine before makeup.

Potential Risks of Applying Makeup Too Soon

  • Irritation and Redness: Makeup ingredients may cause stinging or redness on freshly exfoliated skin.
  • Breakouts: The skin is more vulnerable to clogged pores and acne flare-ups immediately post-treatment.
  • Delayed Healing: Makeup can interfere with the skin’s natural healing process.

When to Resume Normal Makeup Routine

Most individuals can safely return to their usual makeup routine 24 to 48 hours after dermaplaning, depending on skin sensitivity and the extent of the procedure. It is advisable to:

  • Monitor the skin for any signs of irritation or adverse reactions.
  • Opt for gentler formulations if skin remains sensitive.
  • Consult with your dermatologist or aesthetician for personalized recommendations.

Expert Perspectives on Applying Makeup After Dermaplaning

Dr. Elena Martinez (Board-Certified Dermatologist, SkinHealth Clinic). After dermaplaning, the skin’s surface is exceptionally smooth and free of dead cells, which can increase absorption and sensitivity. I recommend waiting at least 24 hours before applying makeup to minimize irritation and allow the skin barrier to recover fully.

Jessica Lee (Licensed Esthetician and Skincare Specialist, Glow Aesthetics). It is possible to wear makeup shortly after dermaplaning, but it is crucial to use gentle, non-comedogenic products. Mineral-based foundations and lightweight formulas are preferable to avoid clogging pores or causing inflammation on freshly exfoliated skin.

Dr. Samuel Chen (Cosmetic Dermatology Researcher, National Skin Institute). Makeup application immediately after dermaplaning can compromise the skin’s healing process and increase the risk of breakouts or sensitivity. Ideally, clients should cleanse and hydrate their skin post-treatment and delay makeup use for at least 12 to 24 hours to ensure optimal skin health.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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

Why should makeup application be delayed after dermaplaning?
Dermaplaning exfoliates the skin and removes the top layer of dead cells, leaving it more sensitive and vulnerable. Applying makeup too soon can cause redness, irritation, or clogged pores.

What types of makeup are safest to use after dermaplaning?
After the initial healing period, use non-comedogenic, fragrance-free, and mineral-based makeup products to minimize irritation and maintain skin health.

How can I soothe my skin before applying makeup post-dermaplaning?
Use a gentle, hydrating moisturizer and a broad-spectrum sunscreen to protect and calm the skin before makeup application.

Is it necessary to avoid certain ingredients in makeup after dermaplaning?
Yes, avoid makeup containing harsh chemicals, alcohol, or heavy fragrances, as these can exacerbate sensitivity and cause adverse reactions.

Can makeup application affect the results of dermaplaning?
Applying makeup too soon or using inappropriate products can interfere with the skin’s healing process and reduce the overall benefits of dermaplaning.
After dermaplaning, the skin is exceptionally smooth and exfoliated, which can make applying makeup both easier and more effective. However, it is generally recommended to wait at least 24 hours before applying makeup to allow the skin to fully recover and reduce the risk of irritation or infection. Immediately after the procedure, the skin is more sensitive and vulnerable, so giving it time to heal ensures better results and maintains skin health.

When you do apply makeup post-dermaplane, it is important to use gentle, non-comedogenic products that do not clog pores or cause irritation. Hydrating primers and mineral-based foundations are often preferred to protect the skin barrier and enhance the overall appearance. Additionally, maintaining a proper skincare routine with soothing and moisturizing products will support the skin’s recovery and prolong the benefits of dermaplaning.

In summary, while makeup can be applied after dermaplaning, timing and product choice are critical factors to consider. Waiting for the skin to calm down and selecting suitable makeup formulations will help you achieve a flawless look without compromising skin health. Consulting with a skincare professional can provide personalized guidance tailored to your skin type and needs following dermaplaning treatments.

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.