Skip to content 
Table of Contents
You’ve scheduled your first dermaplaning appointment and you’re excited about the promised smooth, glowing skin that everyone’s talking about. But as the treatment day approaches, you might be wondering if there’s anything special you need to do beforehand to ensure the best possible results.
Effective dermaplaning preparation significantly impacts both your treatment comfort and the final results you’ll achieve. Unlike some treatments where you can show up and go, dermaplaning works best when your skin is properly prepared.
At Dr. Addison Aesthetics, we’ve found that patients who follow proper dermaplaning pre-treatment tips not only achieve better results but also feel more confident and comfortable throughout their treatment experience. Understanding what to do—and what to avoid—before your appointment sets the foundation for the smooth, radiant skin you’re seeking.
The Foundation of Great Dermaplaning Results
How to prepare for dermaplaning begins with understanding that this treatment involves using a sterile surgical blade to gently get rid of dead skin cells and fine facial hair. Properly prepared skin allows the blade to glide more smoothly, the treatment is more comfortable, and the results are more dramatic.
Skin care before dermaplaning isn’t complicated, but it does require some planning and attention to detail. The goal is to create optimal conditions for the treatment while avoiding anything that might cause irritation or interfere with the process.
Proper preparation also helps minimize any potential side effects and ensures that your skin responds well to the exfoliation process. When you take the time to prepare correctly, you’re investing in better results and a more pleasant treatment experience.
This preparation timeline usually starts one week prior to your appointment, allowing your skin adequate time to adapt to routine modifications and arrive in optimal condition.
Your Complete Pre-Treatment Timeline
One Week Before Treatment
Professional Dermaplaning preparation begins seven days before your appointment with some important adjustments to your skincare routine. Stop using any retinoids, glycolic acid, salicylic acid, or other exfoliating products to prevent over-sensitizing your skin.
Skip facial waxing, threading, or any other hair removal techniques during this seven-day period. The fine hair that dermaplaning removes is part of the treatment’s effectiveness, so you want it present for your appointment.
Sun protection becomes especially important during this preparation week. Use a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher daily and avoid prolonged sun exposure that could cause irritation or sensitivity.
3-5 Days Before Treatment
Continue your gentle skincare routine while avoiding any new products that might cause reactions. Stick to cleansers, moisturizers, and sunscreen that you know work well with your skin.
Skin care before dermaplaning should focus on maintaining good hydration. Use a gentle, hydrating moisturizer twice daily to ensure your skin is well-prepared for the exfoliation process.
Avoid facial treatments like peels, microdermabrasion, or other professional exfoliation services that could leave your skin sensitive or irritated.
Treatment Day Preparation
Arrive at your appointment with clean skin, free of makeup, lotions, or skincare products. This allows your provider to properly assess your skin and ensures the treatment works effectively.
Limit caffeine intake if it causes jitters, as maintaining a relaxed state during treatment helps achieve optimal outcomes. The calmer you are, the more you’ll enjoy the experience.
How to prepare for dermaplaning on treatment day also includes wearing comfortable clothing and avoiding scheduling strenuous activities immediately afterward, though no significant downtime is required.
Why Proper Preparation Transforms Your Results
Dermaplaning skin prep directly impacts how effective your treatment will be and how comfortable you’ll feel during the process. When your skin is properly prepared, the dead skin cells and peach fuzz come off more easily, allowing for more thorough exfoliation.
Prepared skin also means fewer complications during treatment. Properly hydrated, clean skin without active irritation allows your provider to work more efficiently and achieve more consistent results across your entire face.
The psychological benefits of good preparation shouldn’t be overlooked either. When you know you’ve done everything right leading up to your appointment, you can relax and enjoy the treatment experience rather than worrying about whether you’ve forgotten something important.
Post-treatment results also improve with proper preparation. Skin that’s been well-cared-for before dermaplaning typically heals faster, experiences less irritation, and shows more dramatic improvements in texture and radiance.
Additionally, good preparation habits often translate into better post-treatment care, creating a positive cycle that enhances both immediate and long-term results from your dermaplaning experience.
Who Is This Best For?
Dermaplaning in Cary, NC appeals to a wide range of people seeking smoother, more radiant skin through gentle exfoliation. The procedure is ideal for:
- People with dry, rough, or dull skin wanting immediate texture improvement and better makeup application.
- Individuals preparing for weddings, photoshoots, or presentations who need quick skin-smoothing results.
- Those with sensitive skin who find dermaplaning gentler than chemical exfoliation methods.
- Both younger and mature clients seeking to refresh their complexion regardless of age.
- Pregnant or nursing individuals who prefer dermaplaning over chemical treatments.
- Those with active acne, rosacea, or sunburn should wait until skin heals.
Contact us at Dr. Addison Aesthetics to determine if dermaplaning in Cary, NC suits best for you and receive personalized preparation guidance for optimal treatment results.
FAQs About Dermaplaning Preparation
Can I use my regular skincare products right up until treatment?
Dermaplaning pre-treatment tips include avoiding active ingredients like retinoids and acids for at least one week before treatment, but gentle cleansers and moisturizers are fine to use until the day of your appointment.
What if I have a breakout right before my appointment?
If you develop active acne or irritation, contact your provider to discuss whether to proceed or reschedule. Dermaplaning on compromised skin can worsen breakouts and delay healing.
Should I shave before my dermaplaning treatment?
Never shave before dermaplaning—the fine facial hair is meant to be removed during the treatment. Shaving beforehand defeats part of the purpose and can cause irritation that interferes with the procedure.
Get the Most from Your Treatment Investment
Proper dermaplaning preparation is your ticket to achieving the smooth, radiant skin you’re seeking while ensuring a comfortable, safe treatment experience. Taking the time to prepare correctly demonstrates your commitment to getting the best possible results from your investment.
Dermaplaning offers immediate improvement in skin texture, radiance, and makeup application when approached with proper preparation and realistic expectations. The gentle yet effective nature of this treatment makes it an excellent choice for busy people who want significant results without downtime.
Ready to experience the transformative effects of professional dermaplaning? Don’t skip the prep! Book your dermaplaning consultation and get personalized skin care advice from our experienced team who will guide you through every step of the preparation process.
