Reviewed by Dr. Chad Gilliam PA
Reading time: three minutes.
Dermaplaning does a lot of amazing things. It smooths skin and boosts product absorption, but can it help with acne?
Dermaplaning is a non-invasive exfoliation treatment. It removes dead skin cells and facial hair using a sterile surgical blade.
This blog explains how dermaplaning may affect sensitive or acne-prone skin, what results to expect, and when to avoid it.
Key Takeaway
Dermaplaning does not treat acne but may help keep skin clearer when breakouts are not active. It removes buildup, smooths texture, and supports the absorption of skincare products that promote healthier, radiant skin.
How Dermaplaning May Support Acne-Prone Skin
Dermaplaning does not treat acne directly. But it may support a cleaner, clearer complexion in the following ways:
- Removes dead skin cells: This helps prevent clogged pores that cause future breakouts.
- Boosts cell turnover: New, healthy skin cells replace damaged ones.
- Increases product absorption: Active ingredients in your acne treatment penetrate more effectively.
- Removes buildup: Makeup, oil, and debris no longer sit on the protective layer.
- Smooths texture: Mild acne scars, uneven skin tone, and rough spots appear softer.
However, dermaplaning is not safe for active acne, cystic acne, or severe acne. If you have inflamed breakouts, this skin treatment can irritate the area, damage the skin barrier, and increase the risk of infection or skin purging.
When to Avoid Dermaplaning
It is best to avoid dermaplaning during active breakouts or if you have:
- Open wounds
- Cystic or inflamed acne
- Rosacea or eczema flares
- Skin infections
Pro Tips for Acne-Prone Skin
Caring for acne-prone skin requires the right balance of exfoliation, hydration, and professional support.
Whether you’re managing occasional breakouts or long-term skin issues, these tips can help you make the most of your skincare routine:
- Use a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser: Look for formulas that clean without stripping your skin’s natural barrier.
- Avoid abrasive scrubs: Physical exfoliants can aggravate acne. Instead, consider professional options like chemical peels for controlled exfoliation.
- Keep skin hydrated: Don’t skip moisturizer—hydrated skin heals faster and produces less excess oil.
- Apply SPF daily: Sun exposure can worsen hyperpigmentation and inflammation, so a broad-spectrum sunscreen is essential.
- Stick to your routine: Acne takes time to improve. Avoid switching products frequently, which can lead to irritation and setbacks.
- Choose high-quality skincare products: Medical-grade lines like Skinbetter Science, SkinMedica, and ZO Skin Health are formulated with clinically proven ingredients that support clearer, healthier skin.
- Target deeper concerns professionally: At Madison Wellness, treatments like Luminox LED Light Therapy and customized acne facials help reduce inflammation, unclog pores, and improve overall skin tone.
- Consult a skincare provider: Your skin is unique. A professional can guide you toward treatments and at-home products that support long-term skin health.
Book a Visia Skin Analysis
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Professional Dermaplaning at Madison Wellness & Aesthetic Center
We perform professional dermaplaning using a sterile blade to exfoliate the top layer of skin. This exfoliation method clears dead cells, reduces surface debris, and removes vellus hairs.
There are no harsh products, no chemicals, and no downtime. The goal is simple: reveal smoother, brighter skin that responds better to your skin care products.
If your skin feels dull, flaky, or textured, this cosmetic procedure may help reset your glow and promote healthier skin.
Book a Consultation today!
Want to know if dermaplaning is right for your skin? We will assess your complexion and guide you toward the best treatment for your goals.
Book an appointment at our Medical Spa in Madison, AL. Call (256) 248-9199 or visit us at 844 Slaughter Rd. Suite A, Madison, AL.
FAQs About Dermaplaning and Acne
No, you should wait until active acne clears. Dermaplaning on inflamed skin increases the risk of irritation, spread of bacteria, and worsening of acne breakout.
When performed by a trained professional, dermaplaning is generally safe and effective. However, there are still some temporary side effects like mild redness, increased sun sensitivity, or skin tightness for a few hours after treatment.
At-home dermaplaning carries more risks. Using unsterile tools or improper technique can lead to cuts, skin irritation, breakouts, and even damage to the skin barrier. Many at-home blades aren’t sharp enough to exfoliate effectively, which can cause tugging and uneven results.
For best results, dermaplaning should always be done by a licensed provider using medical-grade tools in a sterile setting.
Shaving vellus hairs does not treat acne directly but helps keep skin smooth and reduces buildup. Hairless skin allows for better absorption of skincare products and lowers the chance of clogged pores caused by heavy makeup.
It clears the outer layer of dead cells and improves product absorption. While it does not cure acne, it can support healthy skin by improving skin cell turnover, fading scars over time, and maintaining a smoother skin texture.
