What Is Dermaplaning? Everything You Need to Know Before Your First Appointment

If you've heard about dermaplaning but aren't quite sure what it involves, you're not alone. It's one of those treatments where the description - a blade on your face - sounds more alarming than the reality. Let me explain what actually happens, why it works, and what makes the treatment at En Beauty different from anything you'd try at home.

What dermaplaning actually is

Dermaplaning is a physical exfoliation treatment. A trained therapist uses a sterile surgical blade held at a precise angle to remove the outermost layer of dead skin cells from the face, along with vellus hair - what most people call peach fuzz.

The result is immediately noticeable. Skin looks brighter, feels smoother, and absorbs skincare products more effectively because the layer of dead cells that was sitting on top of it is gone. Makeup sits differently. Your skin just looks more alive.

Unlike acid-based exfoliation, dermaplaning doesn't alter the skin's pH or disrupt the skin barrier. It's a physical process, not a chemical one. For clients with sensitive or reactive skin who can't tolerate acids, this distinction matters.

Does dermaplaning make hair grow back thicker?

This is the most common question I get, and the answer is no. The fine facial hair removed during dermaplaning is vellus hair - the soft, almost colourless hair that most of us have on our faces. It has a completely different follicle structure from the terminal hair on your head or brows. Cutting it doesn't change how it grows back.

This is one of the most persistent myths in beauty, and it applies equally to at-home dermaplaning tools. The hair grows back exactly as it was.

What happens at an En Beauty dermaplaning appointment

At En Beauty, dermaplaning can be paired with a deeply hydrating mask and a Japanese Scalp Lift - a combination unique to our studio.

The appointment begins with a brief skin assessment. The therapist looks at your skin type, current condition, and any sensitivities before proceeding. The dermaplaning itself takes around 30-40 minutes - careful, methodical strokes across the face removing the surface layer of dead skin and hair.

Immediately after, a hydrating mask is applied while your skin is at its most receptive. The appointment closes with the Japanese Scalp Lift, a therapeutic cranial and scalp massage from Japanese wellness practice that releases tension through the scalp, temples and neck.

The full appointment is one hour. Most clients leave looking noticeably brighter and feeling more relaxed than they expected.

Is dermaplaning the same as shaving?

Not quite. At-home facial razors and dermaplaning tools can remove surface hair, but the technique and outcome are different. Professional dermaplaning uses a specific surgical blade held at a calibrated angle, applied across the contours of the face with controlled pressure. The intent is skin resurfacing, not hair removal - and the result reflects that.

I'd always recommend professional treatment over at-home tools, particularly for first-timers. The skin around the jawline, upper lip and nose has different contours that require technique to navigate safely.

Who dermaplaning is right for

Dermaplaning suits most skin types. It's particularly good for:

• Dull, dry or dehydrated skin that needs an immediate glow

• Skin that doesn't respond well to acids or chemical exfoliation

• Anyone preparing for a special occasion who wants their best skin within a day or two

• Clients who want visible exfoliation results without any downtime

It's not recommended for active acne breakouts, inflamed skin, or very sensitive conditions. We always assess your skin at consultation before proceeding.

Aftercare

Dermaplaning has no downtime. The skin may look slightly flushed for a few hours, which settles quickly. For the 24 hours following your appointment, avoid strong active ingredients in your skincare and apply SPF before going outside. Your skin will be more receptive to products - that's the point - so keep what you use simple and nourishing for the first day.

Ready to try dermaplaning at En Beauty?

Dermaplaning is available at En Beauty in Northcote as a standalone treatment or paired with a hydrating mask and Japanese Scalp Lift. Book at enbeauty.co.nz/dermaplaning-auckland, or get in touch before your first appointment if you have questions.