Dermaplaning does not cause hair to grow back thicker or faster; it simply removes surface hair and dead skin cells.
The Science Behind Dermaplaning and Hair Growth
Dermaplaning is a cosmetic procedure that involves using a sterile surgical scalpel to gently scrape off the top layer of dead skin cells and fine vellus hair, often referred to as “peach fuzz.” This treatment aims to smooth the skin’s surface, improve texture, and enhance the absorption of skincare products. But many wonder about its effects on hair regrowth.
The key question is: Does dermaplaning cause hair to grow back? The answer lies in understanding the nature of hair follicles and how hair grows. Hair growth originates from follicles located deep beneath the skin surface. Dermaplaning only removes hair at the skin’s surface level; it doesn’t affect the follicle or alter its function.
Hair growth cycles consist of three phases: anagen (growth), catagen (transition), and telogen (rest). Since dermaplaning does not impact these biological processes, it cannot accelerate or thicken hair regrowth. The hair you see after dermaplaning is simply the natural regrowth of vellus hair.
Why People Think Hair Grows Back Thicker After Dermaplaning
The misconception that dermaplaning causes thicker or darker hair stems from how shaved or cut hairs feel when they start growing back. When fine hairs are cut at the surface, their tips become blunt rather than tapered. This bluntness can make regrowing hairs feel coarser or more noticeable to touch.
Additionally, vellus hairs are very light and thin, so when they grow out after dermaplaning, they may appear darker against freshly exfoliated skin, creating an illusion of increased density. However, this is purely a sensory and visual effect rather than a change in actual hair structure or growth rate.
Dermaplaning vs. Other Hair Removal Methods
Understanding how dermaplaning compares to other common hair removal techniques can clarify why it doesn’t stimulate thicker regrowth.
| Method | Effect on Hair Follicles | Regrowth Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Dermaplaning | Removes only surface vellus hairs; no follicle damage | Hair grows back at normal rate with natural texture |
| Shaving | Cuts hair at skin level; follicles unaffected | Blunt tips may feel coarser; no change in thickness or rate |
| Waxing/Plucking | Pulls hair out from follicle; may cause temporary follicle trauma | Slower regrowth; possible thinning over time with repeated use |
Unlike waxing or plucking, which remove hairs from the root and can sometimes weaken follicles over time, dermaplaning only exfoliates surface layers without impacting follicular health. This makes it a gentle option for those concerned about stimulating unwanted hair growth.
The Role of Skin Type and Hormones in Hair Growth Post-Dermaplaning
Individual factors such as genetics, hormone levels, and overall skin type heavily influence facial hair density and growth patterns. For example, people with higher levels of androgens naturally have thicker vellus or terminal hairs on their face.
Dermaplaning does not alter these biological factors but can make existing facial hairs more visible temporarily due to exfoliation. For those with hormonal imbalances such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), facial hair growth may be more prominent regardless of dermaplaning treatments.
Therefore, any perceived increase in facial fuzz after dermaplaning is more likely due to natural hormonal fluctuations rather than the procedure itself causing new or accelerated growth.
Benefits Beyond Hair Removal: Why Dermaplaning Is Popular
While questions about hair regrowth dominate conversations around dermaplaning, its benefits extend far beyond just removing peach fuzz.
Smoother Skin Texture and Radiance
By sloughing off dead skin cells, dermaplaning reveals fresher layers underneath that reflect light better. This results in an immediate glow that many users find appealing before special events or makeup application.
Improved Product Absorption
Removing the barrier of dead cells allows serums, moisturizers, and other skincare treatments to penetrate deeper into the skin. This can enhance their effectiveness significantly compared to applying products on unexfoliated skin.
Non-Invasive and Painless Procedure
Unlike harsher exfoliation methods like chemical peels or microdermabrasion, dermaplaning is gentle enough for most skin types with minimal risk of irritation when performed correctly by professionals.
The Procedure: What to Expect During Dermaplaning Sessions
A typical dermaplaning session lasts around 30 minutes. After cleansing the face thoroughly to remove oils and makeup residues, a trained esthetician uses a sterile scalpel held at a 45-degree angle to sweep across the face in short strokes.
The tool removes both dead skin cells and fine hairs safely without damaging underlying tissue. Most clients report feeling little to no discomfort during treatment—some describe it as similar to light scraping or shaving sensations.
Post-treatment care usually involves applying soothing serums or moisturizers alongside sunscreen protection since exfoliated skin is more sensitive to UV rays temporarily.
How Often Should You Get Dermaplaned?
Frequency depends on individual needs but generally ranges from every three to four weeks since this aligns with typical epidermal turnover cycles. Regular sessions maintain smoothness while allowing natural cell regeneration without over-exfoliating delicate facial skin.
Addressing Common Myths About Dermaplaning and Hair Growth
Myths around dermaplaning causing unwanted side effects persist largely due to misunderstandings about biology combined with anecdotal experiences shared online. Here’s a breakdown debunking some widespread myths:
- Myth: Dermaplaning makes facial hair grow back darker.
Fact: Hair color remains unchanged; blunt tips may feel coarser but do not alter pigment. - Myth: Repeated dermaplaning thickens facial fuzz.
Fact: No scientific evidence supports changes in follicle activity due to surface exfoliation. - Myth: Dermaplaning damages follicles leading to abnormal growth.
Fact: The procedure targets only superficial layers without harming follicles embedded deeper within.
Understanding these facts helps set realistic expectations for anyone considering dermaplaning as part of their skincare routine.
Caring for Your Skin Post-Dermaplaning To Maintain Results
Aftercare plays a crucial role in maximizing benefits while minimizing potential irritation post-dermaplaning:
- Avoid direct sun exposure: Use broad-spectrum sunscreen daily since freshly exposed layers are vulnerable.
- Mild skincare products only: Skip retinoids, acids (like AHAs/BHAs), or scrubs for at least 48 hours.
- Keepskin hydrated: Apply gentle moisturizers rich in soothing ingredients like hyaluronic acid.
- Avoid heavy makeup immediately after treatment: Allow your skin some breathing room for optimal healing.
Following these guidelines ensures your complexion stays radiant longer without triggering sensitivity issues that could detract from results.
Key Takeaways: Does Dermaplaning Cause Hair To Grow Back?
➤ Dermaplaning removes dead skin and peach fuzz effectively.
➤ It does not cause hair to grow back thicker or darker.
➤ Hair regrows at the same rate and texture as before.
➤ Regular dermaplaning can improve skin smoothness.
➤ Consult a professional for safe and proper technique.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Dermaplaning Cause Hair To Grow Back Thicker?
No, dermaplaning does not cause hair to grow back thicker. It only removes the fine vellus hair at the surface and dead skin cells, without affecting the hair follicle or its growth cycle.
Does Dermaplaning Cause Hair To Grow Back Faster Than Normal?
Dermaplaning does not speed up hair growth. Hair growth is controlled by follicles beneath the skin, which dermaplaning does not impact. The regrowth rate remains natural and unchanged.
Does Dermaplaning Cause Hair To Grow Back Darker or More Noticeable?
Hair may appear darker or more noticeable after dermaplaning because freshly cut hairs have blunt tips and contrast against exfoliated skin. This is a visual effect, not an actual change in hair color or density.
Does Dermaplaning Cause Hair To Grow Back With a Different Texture?
The texture of regrown hair after dermaplaning remains the same. Any perceived coarseness is due to blunt hair tips from cutting at the surface, not a change in the hair’s natural structure.
Does Dermaplaning Cause Hair To Grow Back Differently Compared to Other Methods?
Unlike waxing or plucking, dermaplaning only removes surface hairs without impacting follicles. Therefore, it doesn’t alter hair regrowth characteristics like thickness, speed, or texture compared to other removal methods.
The Bottom Line – Does Dermaplaning Cause Hair To Grow Back?
In summary, dermaplaning does not cause facial hair to grow back thicker, darker, or faster. It simply removes surface-level vellus hairs along with dead skin cells without impacting follicular function beneath the epidermis.
Any sensation of coarseness during regrowth is caused by blunt edges left behind after cutting—not by changes in actual hair biology. Factors like hormones and genetics remain primary drivers behind facial hair characteristics independent of this treatment.
Dermaplaning remains an effective exfoliation method that enhances skin texture and brightness while providing a smooth canvas for makeup application—without promoting unwanted fuzz proliferation. Proper aftercare further safeguards your complexion’s health post-procedure.
For anyone weighing whether dermaplaning might trigger excessive facial fuzz growth—rest assured: it won’t change your natural hair cycle one bit!