Do and don’ts of dermaplaning?

We get it. The idea of getting baby-smooth skin in just one session sounds like a dream. That’s why dermaplaning is having its moment in the beauty spotlight. But before you start scraping away at your cheeks with an exfoliating blade you found online, let’s talk truth. In this guide, we’re breaking down the real do’s and don’ts of dermaplaning, Brisbane-style — from prep and aftercare to myths that seriously need retiring.

We’re Uliana and Anastasia from Cosmetic Tattoo Brisbane Studio Face Figurati, and we’ve seen it all — from flawless results to not-so-flawless DIY jobs. Consider this your no-nonsense roadmap to smoother skin and fewer skin concerns.

What Is Dermaplaning?

Dermaplaning is a form of physical exfoliation procedure that removes dead skin cells and fine vellus hairs (a.k.a. peach fuzz) using a sterile, surgical blade. It’s a noninvasive procedure that leaves your post-dermaplaning skin smoother, brighter, and more radiant.

Think of it as a supercharged exfoliation-meets-hair-removal treatment. Perfect before big events, for treating dull skin, or when Brisbane’s humidity has left your face feeling clogged and congested. It works well for most skin types, especially when paired with the right gentle skincare routine.

Do’s: What Works

Do Prep Your Skin Properly

• Wash your face thoroughly with a mild, non-foaming cleanser or other gentle cleansers.
• Make sure your layer of skin is completely dry before beginning.
• Skip any chemical peels, glycolic acid, or harsh treatments 48 hours before.

Do Use a Sharp, Sterile Blade

Whether you’re booking in-studio or trying it at home (carefully), sharp tools matter. A dull blade can drag, scratch, or cause minor skin damage. Always use a dermatologist-recommended tool.

Do Hold the Skin Taut

Tension is key! Pull your patch of skin tight with one hand while using light, short strokes with the other.

Do Moisturise Right After

After dermaplaning, your layer of skin revealed is thirsty for nourishment. Opt for:

• Hyaluronic acid
• Heavier creams for dehydrated skin
• Non-irritating skincare with formulas with skin-boosting peptides

Do Apply SPF Religiously

Freshly exfoliated skin is extra sensitive to direct sun exposure. Slather on broad-spectrum SPF 50+, especially under the Brisbane sun, to prevent sun damage.

Do Stick to a Schedule

We recommend dermaplaning every 3–4 weeks. Schedule follow-up dermaplaning sessions based on your skin’s response. More isn’t always better — overdoing it can cause skin irritation or disrupt your skin barrier.

Don’ts: Learn From Others’ Regrets

Don’t Use Dirty Tools

This one’s huge. If you’re dermaplaning at home, sanitise your blade with isopropyl alcohol. Dirty skin tools + open pores = breakout city.

Don’t Use on Active Acne or Broken Skin

If you have active breakouts, active acne, or any active skin condition, skip it. You’ll spread bacteria and worsen inflammation. Wait until skin has healed.

Don’t Skip Aftercare

No hot water, saunas, or strenuous activities for at least 24 hours. Your post-dermaplaning skin needs downtime.

Don’t Assume It’s a One-Size-Fits-All

This cosmetic procedure isn’t for everyone. If you’ve got sensitive skin, eczema, or depressed acne scars, talk to your therapist before booking.

Don’t Believe the “Hair Grows Back Thicker” Myth

Nope. The peach fuzz hairs grow back exactly the same. They may feel different because they’re blunt, but you’re not growing a beard, promise.

Healing Timeline: What to Expect Week by Week

Day	What You’ll Notice
1	Skin feels baby-smooth and looks brighter
2-3	Slight tightness or dry skin; flaking may start
4-5	Flaking resolves, smoother skin appears
6-7	Texture continues to improve
8+	Ready for another session if built-up skin returns

Expect common side effects like slight redness, but these settle fast with good care.

How to Prep for a Session

Brisbane weather can be tricky, so prepping properly prevents reactions to skincare.

• Avoid direct sun exposure and tanning for 5 days pre-treatment
• No harsh skincare products, laser procedures, or chemical peels 2–3 days prior
• Drink plenty of water to hydrate from the inside
• Arrive with a clean face, no heavy makeup or harsh makeup remover

Salon story: A client came in with a fresh breakout after a pool day full of chlorinated water and forgot to hydrate. We had to postpone to protect her layer of skin.

Aftercare

Post-treatment DOs:

• Use a mild face cleanser or a gentle cleanser
• Moisturise with heavier creams or non-irritating skincare
• Apply mineral makeup after 24 hrs (if you must wear makeup tomorrow)
• Protect with SPF and drink lots of water

Post-treatment DON’Ts:

• No abrasive cleansers, facial hair waxing or other hair removal methods
• No intensive skincare therapies or laser hair removal
• Avoid makeup application for at least 24 hours
• Don’t scratch, pick or touch unnecessarily

Trending in 2025: Dermaplaning Still Big in Brisbane

Dermaplaning still ranks among the top facial treatments in Brisbane. A 2025 survey showed a 23% spike in bookings across all ages. Why?

• Fast recovery time
• Suitable for most skin types and skin concerns
• Great prep before skincare products or makeup application

At our studio, pairing with a hydrojelly mask or skincare products with glycolic acid gives an even better glow.

Common Myths, Busted

• “It’ll make facial hair grow back thicker” — Nope. That’s old news.
• “It’s only for women” — Tell that to our Brisbane blokes booking repeat hair removal treatments.
• “It’s the same as shaving” — Dermaplaning removes more than just body hair or facial hair — it exfoliates layers of skin.

Final Thoughts: Ready to Try Dermaplaning?

If you’re looking for a trusted place to experience dermaplaning Brisbane clients swear by, our studio is here for real results and expert care.

If you’re after healthier skin, smoother texture, and better glow, dermaplaning might be your thing. Just do it properly.

2026 update:

Dermaplaning continues to hold strong in Brisbane, but the way clients approach it has matured. Recent local clinic data shows that over 65% of dermaplaning bookings are now part of a broader skin program, rather than a standalone, one-off treatment. At The Facial Hub in Brisbane, practitioners report that clients are far more informed about prep, aftercare, and realistic outcomes — a direct response to the rise in DIY misinformation online. Clients who visit The Facial Hub for professional dermaplaning are increasingly pairing it with calming or circulation-boosting treatments such as cryotherapy in Brisbane The Facial Hub, particularly during hotter months when redness, inflammation, and barrier stress are more common.

What’s also changed is expectation management. Clinics across Brisbane are seeing higher satisfaction rates when dermaplaning is positioned as a skin-optimising exfoliation, not a miracle fix. Post-treatment surveys show that nearly 75% of clients report smoother texture, improved product absorption, and reduced congestion within the first week, with fewer adverse reactions when dermaplaning is spaced every 3–4 weeks and supported by barrier-friendly aftercare. At The Facial Hub and related Brisbane studios, dermaplaning is now firmly treated as a professional-grade reset step — one that works best when combined with inflammation control, hydration, and smart treatment sequencing rather than aggressive at-home shortcuts.

FAQ

Can I do dermaplaning myself at home?

Yes, but it’s risky. Use a perfect tool (sterile, sharp) and avoid doing it numerous times in a short period.

How often should I dermaplane?

Every 3–4 weeks, depending on how much amounts of skin you shed and your skin’s condition.

Is it safe during pregnancy?

Yes! It’s one of the few non-surgical procedures safe for mums-to-be.

Will I break out after dermaplaning?

You might if you have persistent breakouts or don’t follow the aftercare procedure.

Can I combine it with other treatments?

Yes! It complements facial treatments, chemical peels, and skincare products beautifully.