If you’ve ever heard that shaving your face will make you “grow a beard,” you’re not alone. Dermaplaning has been surrounded by myths for years, leaving many people afraid it will cause darker hair, breakouts, or skin damage.
The truth? When done properly, dermaplaning is a safe, effective form of physical exfoliation that removes dead skin cells and peach fuzz without changing how your hair grows. This process helps smooth skin texture, brighten the complexion, and allow skincare products to absorb more effectively.
While it can feel intimidating at first, dermaplaning has been used professionally for years and can be safely done at home with the right technique and tools.
Now let’s break down the most common dermaplaning myths and what actually happens to your skin.
Dermaplaning Myth #1: It Makes Hair Grow Back Thicker, Darker, or Faster
This is the most common dermaplaning myth and it’s completely false. Shaving peach fuzz does not change:
- Hair color
- Hair thickness
- Hair growth speed
Those traits are determined by genetics and hormones, not razors.
After dermaplaning, hair can feel slightly stubbly at first because shaving cuts hair straight across, leaving a blunt edge instead of a tapered one. This creates the illusion of thicker hair, but the hair itself grows back exactly the same as before. If you already have darker or coarser facial hair due to hormonal changes, dermaplaning won’t cause it or make it worse.
Dermaplaning Myth #2: Dermaplaning Causes Breakouts
Dermaplaning does not cause acne, improper technique does. Breakouts can happen when people:
- Dermaplane on dirty skin
- Use dull or low-quality blades
- Apply too much pressure
- Shave over active acne or inflamed pimples
Shaving over breakouts can spread bacteria and irritate the skin, which may trigger more inflammation. When done correctly, dermaplaning actually helps remove dead skin cells that can clog pores and trap bacteria. For many people, it improves skin texture and helps fade the appearance of acne scars over time.
Dermaplaning Myth #3: Any Eyebrow Razor Works for Dermaplaning
Eyebrow razors may look similar, but they are not designed for full-face dermaplaning. Many eyebrow razors are:
- Dull or uneven
- Poorly balanced
- More likely to cause nicks and irritation
A proper dermaplaning razor is designed to glide smoothly across facial contours. Features like protective guards, longer blades for better coverage, and a sturdy, balanced handle make a significant difference in safety and results. Using the right tool is one of the biggest factors in having a positive dermaplaning experience.
Dermaplaning Myth #4: Dermaplaning Is Only About Hair Removal
Hair removal is just a bonus. The real benefit of dermaplaning is exfoliation. By removing the top layer of dead skin cells, dermaplaning helps:
- Brighten dull skin
- Smooth uneven texture
- Improve skincare absorption
- Create a smoother base for makeup
Many people notice their skin looks healthier and more radiant after dermaplaning, even before applying makeup.
How to Dermaplane Safely at Home
Follow this simple, fool-proof routine to dermaplane safely and effectively.
Step 1: Cleanse Your Skin. Start with clean, dry skin. Use a gentle cleanser to remove makeup, oil, and bacteria.
Step 2: Apply a Lightweight Facial Oil. Apply a few drops of facial oil to help the razor glide smoothly and reduce friction.
Step 3: Dermaplane at a 45° Angle. Hold the razor at a 45-degree angle and use short, gentle strokes:
- Do not press hard
- Avoid going over the same area repeatedly
- Never shave over active breakouts
This removes peach fuzz, dead skin, and buildup, helping skincare absorb better and makeup apply more smoothly.
Step 4: Clean the Blade and Protect Your Skin. After dermaplaning, please make sure you follow this checklist:
- Clean the blade with rubbing alcohol
- Store it safely
- Apply moisturizer and sunscreen
- Avoid chemical exfoliants (AHAs, BHAs) and other facial exfoliants for at least 48 hours to prevent irritation
How Often Should You Dermaplane?
For most skin types:
- Dermaplane every 2–3 weeks
- Replace the blade every 3–4 uses
Over-exfoliating can compromise your skin barrier, so spacing treatments is key.
Final Thoughts on Dermaplaning
If you’ve been avoiding dermaplaning because you were worried about hair growth, breakouts, or skin damage, hopefully this cleared things up.
Dermaplaning isn’t scary, and it’s not just a trend. When done properly with the right tools and technique, it’s a simple exfoliation step that can make a noticeable difference in your skincare routine!