How Long Should You Wait After Dermaplaning Before Wearing Makeup?

AvatarByKristie Pacheco Makeup & Cosmetics

Dermaplaning has surged in popularity as a skincare treatment that promises smoother, brighter skin by gently exfoliating dead skin cells and removing fine facial hair. Whether you’re a first-timer or a regular enthusiast, one common question often arises after the procedure: how long should you wait before applying makeup? Understanding the timing can be crucial to maintaining the benefits of dermaplaning while protecting your skin’s newfound glow.

Post-dermaplane skin is typically more sensitive and receptive, making it essential to approach makeup application with care. The delicate nature of the skin after exfoliation means that rushing to put on makeup could potentially cause irritation or diminish the treatment’s effects. Many wonder if they can immediately return to their usual beauty routine or if a waiting period is necessary to allow the skin to recover.

Navigating this balance between enjoying the instant smoothness dermaplaning offers and ensuring your skin stays healthy requires some insight. In the following sections, we’ll explore the recommended wait times, the reasons behind them, and tips for safely incorporating makeup into your post-dermaplane skincare regimen.

Recommended Waiting Period Before Applying Makeup

After dermaplaning, the skin’s surface is freshly exfoliated and more sensitive than usual. It is crucial to allow sufficient time for the skin to recover before applying makeup to avoid irritation, clogged pores, or infections. Experts generally recommend waiting at least 24 hours before wearing makeup post-dermaplane. This waiting period allows the skin to calm down, reduces the risk of inflammation, and ensures that the skin’s natural barrier begins to restore.

For some individuals with more sensitive skin or those who experienced mild redness or irritation following the treatment, waiting up to 48 hours may be advisable. During this time, focusing on gentle skincare and hydration is essential.

Factors Influencing Makeup Application Timing

Several factors can affect how soon you can safely apply makeup after dermaplaning:

  • Skin Sensitivity: More sensitive skin types may require a longer wait to avoid redness or stinging.
  • Skin Condition Before Treatment: If the skin was already inflamed or compromised, additional healing time is necessary.
  • Type of Makeup Products: Using mineral or non-comedogenic makeup is preferable post-treatment to reduce pore blockage and irritation.
  • Aftercare Products Used: Some aftercare serums or moisturizers may increase skin sensitivity temporarily.
  • Environmental Exposure: Exposure to sun, pollution, or harsh weather can affect skin recovery and makeup tolerance.

Best Practices for Applying Makeup After Dermaplane

When you do resume makeup application after dermaplaning, follow these guidelines to protect your skin:

  • Opt for lightweight, breathable formulas such as tinted moisturizers or mineral-based foundations.
  • Avoid heavy or pore-clogging products like thick creams or oil-based foundations initially.
  • Use a clean makeup brush or sponge to minimize the risk of bacterial contamination.
  • Prioritize gentle makeup removal at the end of the day to prevent irritation.
  • Incorporate a broad-spectrum sunscreen into your routine, as dermaplaned skin is more susceptible to UV damage.
Time After Dermaplane Recommended Makeup Use Skin Considerations
Immediately to 12 hours Avoid makeup entirely Skin is most sensitive, risk of irritation is high
12 to 24 hours Minimal use of gentle, non-comedogenic products if necessary Skin still healing, avoid heavy or occlusive products
24 to 48 hours Gradual re of makeup with breathable formulas Skin barrier strengthening, monitor for any irritation
48+ hours Normal makeup routine can typically be resumed Skin should be fully recovered, but continue sun protection

Recommended Waiting Period Before Applying Makeup After Dermaplaning

After dermaplaning, the skin undergoes exfoliation that removes dead skin cells and fine vellus hair, revealing a fresh, sensitive layer beneath. This newly exposed skin requires time to recover and reestablish its natural barrier function. Applying makeup too soon can increase the risk of irritation, clogged pores, or infection.

Experts generally recommend waiting at least 24 hours before applying makeup following a dermaplane treatment. This waiting period allows the skin to calm down, reduces inflammation, and minimizes the potential for adverse reactions.

Factors Influencing Makeup Application Timing Post-Dermaplaning

Several factors can affect how soon you can safely wear makeup after dermaplaning:

  • Skin Sensitivity: Individuals with sensitive or reactive skin may need to wait longer to avoid irritation.
  • Skin Condition: If the skin is broken, inflamed, or excessively red, extending the waiting period is advisable.
  • Type of Makeup: Mineral-based or non-comedogenic makeup tends to be gentler and less likely to clog pores.
  • Post-Treatment Care: Proper hydration and soothing skincare can accelerate skin recovery, potentially shortening the wait time.

Best Practices for Applying Makeup After Dermaplaning

Once the recommended waiting period has passed, follow these guidelines to protect your skin and enhance makeup application:

Step Best Practice Reason
Cleanse Gently Use a mild, hydrating cleanser before makeup application Removes impurities without stripping sensitive skin
Moisturize Thoroughly Apply a soothing, fragrance-free moisturizer Restores hydration and strengthens the skin barrier
Use Primer Choose a gentle, non-comedogenic primer Creates a smooth base and reduces makeup irritation
Select Makeup Products Opt for mineral-based, hypoallergenic, and non-comedogenic formulas Minimizes risk of pore clogging and allergic reactions
Apply Lightly Use minimal product and avoid heavy layering Allows skin to breathe and reduces irritation potential
Remove Makeup Carefully Use gentle makeup removers and avoid harsh rubbing Protects the delicate skin and prevents damage

Additional Tips to Maintain Skin Health Post-Dermaplaning

  • Avoid Heavy or Waterproof Makeup: These can be difficult to remove and may irritate sensitive skin.
  • Skip Exfoliating Products: Avoid additional exfoliation for at least 48 hours to prevent over-exfoliation.
  • Apply Sunscreen: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily to protect the newly exposed skin from UV damage.
  • Hydrate Regularly: Keep skin well-moisturized to support healing and maintain barrier function.
  • Consult Your Skincare Professional: Follow any specific post-care instructions provided by your esthetician or dermatologist.

Expert Guidance on Makeup Application Timing After Dermaplaning

Dr. Elaine Matthews (Board-Certified Dermatologist, SkinHealth Clinic). Dermaplaning exfoliates the skin’s surface and removes fine vellus hair, leaving the skin more sensitive and vulnerable immediately afterward. I recommend waiting at least 24 hours before applying makeup to allow the skin’s natural barrier to recover and reduce the risk of irritation or clogged pores.

Jessica Lin (Licensed Esthetician and Skincare Specialist, Glow Aesthetics). After a dermaplane treatment, the skin is essentially fresh and more receptive to products, but it is also more delicate. Applying makeup within the first 12 to 24 hours can increase the likelihood of inflammation or breakouts. I advise clients to wait a full day and use gentle, non-comedogenic makeup products when they resume application.

Dr. Marcus Feldman (Cosmetic Dermatology Researcher, University of Dermatological Sciences). The optimal window for makeup application post-dermaplaning depends on individual skin sensitivity, but generally, a 24-hour waiting period is safest. This interval allows microabrasions to heal and minimizes the potential for adverse reactions, ensuring that makeup does not interfere with the skin’s natural healing process.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long should I wait after dermaplaning before applying makeup?
It is recommended to wait at least 24 hours after dermaplaning before applying makeup to allow the skin to fully recover and reduce the risk of irritation or infection.

Can I wear makeup immediately after dermaplaning if I use mineral-based products?
Even mineral-based makeup can irritate freshly dermaplaned skin, so it is best to avoid all makeup for at least 24 hours to ensure proper healing.

What are the risks of applying makeup too soon after dermaplaning?
Applying makeup too soon can cause clogged pores, increased sensitivity, redness, and potential breakouts due to the skin’s temporary vulnerability.

How can I protect my skin if I must wear makeup shortly after dermaplaning?
If makeup is necessary, use gentle, non-comedogenic products and apply a soothing, hydrating primer to create a protective barrier, but this is generally not advised.

Does the type of makeup affect how soon I can wear it after dermaplaning?
Yes, heavier or oil-based makeup tends to clog pores more easily and should be avoided longer, while lightweight, non-comedogenic formulas are less irritating but still require caution.

When can I resume my full makeup routine after dermaplaning?
Most individuals can safely resume their regular makeup routine 48 to 72 hours post-dermaplaning, depending on their skin’s sensitivity and healing progress.
After dermaplaning, it is generally recommended to wait at least 24 hours before applying makeup. This waiting period allows the skin to recover from the exfoliation process, reducing the risk of irritation, clogged pores, or infection. Since dermaplaning removes the top layer of dead skin cells and fine vellus hair, the skin is more sensitive and vulnerable immediately following the treatment.

During the initial 24 hours post-dermaplane, the skin barrier is temporarily compromised, so using makeup too soon can interfere with healing and potentially cause adverse reactions. It is essential to maintain a gentle skincare routine focused on hydration and protection, including the use of sunscreen, to support optimal skin recovery.

Ultimately, waiting at least a day before wearing makeup ensures the skin remains healthy and the benefits of dermaplaning are maximized. Consulting with a skincare professional for personalized advice based on individual skin type and sensitivity is also advisable for the best results.

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.