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How to Dermaplane at Home—Our Guide to Smooth, Glowing Skin

Your Go-To Guide for Dermaplaning at Home, From Prep to Aftercare

Image credits: @shayrealbeauty

Dermaplaning is the ultimate way to smooth your skin by removing dead skin cells and peach fuzz. Once a spa-exclusive treatment, dermaplaning can now be done at home, giving you brighter skin and deeply cleansed pores—all while saving you money. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best techniques, tools, and products to help you achieve professional-level results from the comfort of your own bathroom.

What Is Dermaplaning?

Dermaplaning is a minimally invasive exfoliation technique that smooths the skin by removing dead skin cells and fine vellus hair (peach fuzz). It helps to reveal a brighter, more even complexion.

Now, let's clear up a common misconception: Does dermaplaning cause hair to grow back thicker or darker? The answer is no. Dermaplaning simply removes the fine hair from the skin's surface without affecting the hair follicles beneath. As a result, hair regrowth will be just as fine and soft as before, with no noticeable change in thickness or color.

Benefits of Dermaplaning

Dermaplaning does more than just remove peach fuzz—it exfoliates away dead skin cells to reveal smoother, brighter skin. By clearing away that top layer, it helps skincare products absorb more effectively and allows makeup to glide on seamlessly for a soft, airbrushed finish. Some people also find that regular dermaplaning helps reduce the appearance of acne scars, fine lines, and uneven skin texture over time.

Can I Dermaplane at Home?

Absolutely. While professional dermaplaning uses medical-grade scalpels for deeper exfoliation, at-home tools offer a gentler, more budget-friendly alternative that's still effective.

When should you go pro? Consider booking an appointment with a licensed aesthetician if you’re dealing with deeper skin concerns like acne scars, fine lines, or uneven texture—or if you’re looking for more intensive results and don’t mind the $160 to $300 price tag every few weeks.

When is at-home dermaplaning better? If you enjoy a good DIY beauty routine and want a low-maintenance, cost-effective way to keep your skin glowing, at-home dermaplaning is a solid choice. Just be sure to follow proper technique and hygiene to avoid nicks, irritation, or infection.

How Often Should I Dermaplane?

How often you dermaplane depends on your skin type and hair growth cycle. Most at-home users dermaplane once a week, while professional treatments are typically done on a monthly cadence. Pay attention to how your skin reacts and adjust as needed—overdoing it can cause irritation.

Who Should NOT Dermaplane

While dermaplaning is safe for most skin types, it’s not for everyone. If you have certain skin conditions or sensitivities, it’s best to skip it or consult a dermatologist first.

Avoid dermaplaning if you have:

  • Active acne
  • Cold sores
  • Rosacea
  • Eczema
  • Psoriasis
  • Hypersensitive skin
  • Open wounds or lesions
  • Recent use of Accutane
  • Blood thinners or other medications that increase bleeding risks

How to Choose the Right Dermaplaning Tool

Many different products claim to be the best dermaplaning tool around. While you might think getting your hands on professional-grade dermaplaning blades is the ultimate hack, most aren't appropriate for at-home use. 

We have a few favorites we think are ideal for beginners:

  • Disposable Dermaplaning Razor:
    This safe, beginner-friendly razor is an inexpensive way to dive in for single or short-term use. Great if you just want to see if you actually like the results before investing in a tool.
  • Electric Dermaplaning Device:
    We love the controlled, steady movement of battery-operated or rechargeable tools that provide gentle exfoliation. So easy to use!
  • Dermaplaning Kit:
    Pre-packaged kit that combines your dermaplaning tool skincare products for preparation and aftercare to remove guesswork.
  • Portable Dermaplaning Razors:
    These compact options are easy to pack when you’re on the go.

Best Tools and Products for At-Home Dermaplaning

Ready to create your dermaplaning setup? Below, we list all of the essentials needed to start dermaplaning at home.

Best At-Home Dermaplaning Tools

Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned DIYer, having the right dermaplaning tool makes all the difference. From budget-friendly disposables to high-tech gadgets, these options cater to every routine and skill level. 

Here are some of the top-rated tools to try at home:

  • Disposable Dermaplaning Razor:
    Schick Hydro Silk Touch-Up smooths and gently exfoliates with its slim, travel-friendly profile. Comes with three recyclable razors per pack.
  • Dermaplaning Tool with Replacement Blades:
    The StackedSkincare Dermaplaning Tool features an aluminum handle and replaceable surgical stainless steel blade. With no cords or batteries, you control the pace.
  • Electric Dermaplaning Device:
    The rechargeable Michael Todd Beauty Sonicsmooth Sonic Dermaplaning Exfoliation & Peach Fuzz Removal System lets you customize your session using three adjustable speeds.
  • Dermaplaning Kit:
    The rechargeable Dermaflash LUXE+ Set features the LUXE Anti-Aging dermaplaning exfoliation device with a skincare regimen that includes salicylic acid and papaya enzymes for exfoliation and brightening, willow board for soothing, and niacinamide to fortify the skin barrier.
  • Portable Dermaplaning Razors:
    The Tinkle Eyebrow Razor offers single-blade dermaplaning with a rust-free design and portable profile made for makeup bags.

Best Skincare Products for Prepping and Aftercare

Great results don’t just come from the blade—what you use before and after dermaplaning matters just as much. 

From cleansers to SPF, these editor-approved picks help prep your skin and protect your glow:

  • Cleanser:
    Like green juice for your face, each pump of Youth To The People Superfood Facial Cleanser features antioxidants, phytonutrients, vitamins, and pH-balancing ingredients. We're fans of the non-drying formula.
  • Serums or Moisturizer:
    CeraVe Moisturizing Cream is an affordable classic that hydrates with ceramides found naturally in skin to maintain the barrier of freshly exposed skin in conjunction with hyaluronic acid.
  • Toner:
    Alcohol-free Thayers Witch Hazel Facial Toner hydrates skin and improves texture with help from soothing aloe vera. Use it both for prep and aftercare.
  • Sunscreen:
    Newly exfoliated skin is sensitive to the sun, and EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen SPF 46 offers ample protection against burning and sun damage using an oil-free zinc oxide formulation with no white streaks or caking.

Best Dermaplaning Accessories

The right accessories can make all the difference when it comes to getting a close, effective dermaplane at home. 

These two tools help take your routine to the next level with pro-level precision:

Facial Steamer:
We use the Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Pro Facial Steamer to prep skin for dermaplaning. It softens skin and open pores to make the process so much easier.

Lighted Mirror: The Simplehuman 5" Sensor Travel Makeup Mirror shows you things you never knew about your skin. Its magnification is unmatched when carefully slicing off dead skin cells and hair.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Dermaplane at Home

New to dermaplaning or just want to fine-tune your technique? 

Follow these easy, foolproof steps to get smooth, glowing results while keeping your skin safe and happy:

  1. Preparing your skin
  2. Keeping things sanitary
  3. Dermaplaning like a pro
  4. Optimizing your results with skin aftercare

Each of these steps plays a key role in achieving the best possible outcome from your at-home dermaplaning session. Up next, we’ll walk you through exactly how to prep your skin, sanitize your tools, glide your blade like a pro, and lock in that post-dermaplane glow with the right skincare routine.

All products and deals are sourced by the Rank & Style team using data and expert insights. If you shop through our links, we may earn a commission—at no extra cost to you.

May 9, 2025

Written By:Meredith Rimmer

Product Expert:Georgia Jones

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01

Clean and Prep Your Skin for Dermaplaning

Image credits: Sephora

Sephora

Start with a fresh, clean face—removing oil, dirt, and makeup ensures your dermaplaning tool can effectively lift away peach fuzz and dead skin cells. Proper prep also minimizes the risk of irritation or infection. 

Here's how we get our skin ready:

  1. Cleanse and tone
    Use a gentle, non-stripping cleanser like Youth To The People Superfood Facial Cleanser, followed by Thayers Witch Hazel Facial Toner to remove any residual oil and balance your skin’s pH. Need more options? Check out our 10 best facial washes and cleansers for all skin types.
    If using a kit like the Dermaflash LUXE+ Set, follow the instructions on the included skin prep product (spoiler alert—you apply and rinse like a cleanser).
  2. Pat your face completely dry
    Moisture can cause your tool to slip, which increases the risk of nicks and may lead to bacteria buildup on the blade.
  3. Steam your skin
    Optional, but improves results. Using a facial steamer like the Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Pro Facial Steamer helps soften skin and open pores, making the dermaplaning process smoother and more effective.
  4. Use a hair identifier spray
    Not necessary, but helpful—this makes fine hairs more visible, so you won’t miss a spot.

Ready to shop for these products and tools? Grab the facial steamer and Dermafash kit for less with a Sephora promo code and the cleanser with our Nordstrom promo code

02

Sanitize the Dermaplaning Tool

Image credits: Ulta Beauty

Ulta Beauty

Even if your blade is brand new, sanitizing it before each use is non-negotiable. It’s a key step in preventing skin irritation, infection, and breakouts. 

Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines, but when in doubt, here’s what to do:

  • Wipe the blade with rubbing alcohol or briefly boil it in water (if the tool is heat-safe) to kill bacteria and remove any residue.
  • If you’re using a reusable tool like the StackedSkincare Dermaplaning Tool, make sure to pop in a fresh blade.
  • Prefer a low-maintenance routine? Try one of the disposable options from our 10 best dermaplaning tools list, which don’t require post-use sterilization.

Clean tools are happy tools—and happy skin.

03

Dermaplane Your Face with Care

Image credits: Target

Target

Once you’ve prepped your skin, find a well-lit spot and a magnifying mirror to help you see every little detail. We love the Simplehuman 5" Sensor Travel Makeup Mirror—and with a Bloomingdale's promo code, you can snag it for less.

If you're new to dermaplaning, start with beginner-friendly tools like the Schick Hydro Silk Touch-Up or the Tinkle Eyebrow Razor. They’re simple, effective, and great for mastering the basics. 

Here’s how to dermaplane like a pro:

  1. Hold the tool at a 45-degree angle to your skin. With your free hand, gently pull the skin taut to keep it stable. Want a smoother, spa-like experience? Upgrade to the Michael Todd Beauty Sonicsmooth Sonic Dermaplaning Exfoliation & Peach Fuzz Removal System. (Pro tip: grab it with this exclusive Ulta Beauty coupon!)
  2. Start at the top of your ear and use short, downward strokes toward the jawline and inward toward the nose, covering the cheek, jawline, chin, and upper lip.
  3. Move to the sides of your face, following the natural direction of hair growth (usually downward).
  4. On your forehead, keep your strokes downward and steer clear of your eyebrows.
  5. Avoid the hairline, eyelids, and the sides of your nose—those areas are more sensitive and tricky to navigate.
  6. If you'd like, finish with gentle downward strokes along your neck, starting at the jawline.

04

Aftercare Routine for Dermaplaning at Home

Image credits: Ulta Beauty

Ulta Beauty

We recommend dermaplaning in the evening—it’s the perfect time to seal in hydration and let your skin repair overnight. 

Keep that fresh glow going with these post-dermaplaning steps:

  1. Cleanse your face right after with a gentle, non-irritating cleanser to sweep away leftover debris or loosened skin cells.
  2. Reinforce your skin barrier with a rich, hydrating moisturizer. We love CeraVe Moisturizing Cream and La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer for their soothing, skin-barrier-supporting formulas. Or browse our top 10 moisturizers with SPF for a multitasking pick. 
  3. Limit sun exposure for the next 2–3 days and don’t skip sunscreen. Your freshly exfoliated skin is extra sensitive, so apply a broad-spectrum SPF like EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen SPF 46 daily—even if you’re indoors.

Some of our favorite moisturizers and sunscreens are available at both Target and Amazon, so be sure to use a Target promo code or Amazon promo code to get the best price when you stock up.


Safety Tips and Common Mistakes to Avoid

Dermaplaning at home can cause a big ouch unless you know what you're doing. 

Here are the do's and don'ts:

Do

  • Start with clean skin
  • Inspect your skin for active acne, sores, or cuts
  • Invest in the best home dermaplaning tool you can afford
  • Avoid touching your face afterward to prevent infection risks
  • Drink water to keep tender skin hydrated

Don't

  • Exfoliate your skin for three days prior
  • Wear makeup for 24 hours after
  • Share dermaplaning tools with others
  • Wash face with hot water afterwards
  • Use retinol for 24 to 48 hours
  • Expose yourself to saunas, vigorous heat, and excessive sweating for 24 to 48 hours

Questions About Dermaplaning at Home

What's the difference between dermaplaning and shaving?

Shaving removes hair from the skin's surface with an ordinary blade. Dermaplaning removes peach fuzz and skin.

Can I dermaplane if I have sensitive skin?

It's not recommended for hypersensitive skin. Consider a patch test if you're not sure how your skin will react.

Is it better to dermaplane with wet or dry skin?

Skin should be dry to prevent nicks.

Will peach fuzz grow back thicker after dermaplaning?

No, your fine facial hairs will not grow back any differently.

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