What should you know about dermaplane and microdermabrasion?

During dermaplaning, a trained practitioner glides a sterile blade over the skin's surface. It can leave the face feeling smoother and can remove vellus hair; it does not change the way that hair grows. Microdermabrasion uses a handpiece to abrade the outermost layer while suction lifts loosened material. A Microdermabrasion Device may use crystals or a diamond tip, depending on the system.

Both can cause temporary pinkness, dryness, tightness, sensitivity, or small areas of irritation. Neither should be used over an active infection, open wound, or inflamed flare without clinical advice. A Chemical Peel is another resurfacing option, but it uses a chemical solution rather than mechanical removal.

Ask for an assessment of your skin type, current products, recent sun exposure, acne or rash, and history of pigment changes or raised scars. Stop only the products your clinician advises you to pause, especially exfoliants and irritating treatments. Afterward, cleanse gently, moisturise, protect the area from sun, and avoid scrubbing, picking, heat, and strong active ingredients until comfortable. Do not share home blades or use unclean equipment. Tell the practitioner if you take medicines that affect bleeding or skin sensitivity.

Contact the provider if pain, swelling, redness, burning, crusting, or oozing is severe or continues to worsen. Seek assessment for pus, spreading warmth, fever, or a new painful rash. Urgent help is needed for facial swelling that affects breathing or swallowing, or for significant eye symptoms. Any persistent darkening after irritation should be checked.

Which method matches my skin concern and sensitivity? Is there active inflammation that should be treated first? What equipment or blade hygiene steps do you use? Which skincare products should I pause, and when may I restart them? What changes would mean I need a review?