Is Dermaplaning Safe to Do at Home?

Dermaplaning has become one of the most misunderstood at-home skincare treatments. When done correctly, it can help with exfoliation and product absorption. When done incorrectly, it can contribute to irritation, breakouts, and barrier disruption.

a woman getting her hair cut by a hair stylist
a woman getting her hair cut by a hair stylist

Is Dermaplaning Safe to Do at Home?

Dermaplaning has become one of the most misunderstood at-home skincare treatments.

When done correctly, it can help with exfoliation and product absorption. When done incorrectly, it can contribute to irritation, breakouts, and barrier disruption.

What dermaplaning actually does

Dermaplaning removes:

  • surface dead skin cells

  • vellus hair (peach fuzz)

It does not:

  • treat acne

  • change hair growth

  • replace professional exfoliation

Who should be cautious with dermaplaning

Dermaplaning may not be appropriate if you have:

  • active acne or inflamed breakouts

  • compromised skin barrier

  • high sensitivity or reactivity

  • certain skin conditions

Frequency and technique matter just as much as whether you do it at all.

Common at-home dermaplaning mistakes

  • applying too much pressure

  • dermaplaning too frequently

  • skipping post-treatment care

  • layering strong actives immediately after

These mistakes often lead to irritation or breakouts that are blamed on products rather than technique.

The takeaway

Dermaplaning isn’t inherently bad but it’s not for everyone, and it shouldn’t be rushed or overdone.

Want to learn safe technique and frequency?

Inside the Skin Foundations Membership, I teach dermaplaning education through live tutorials and replays so you can decide if it’s right for your skin.