Dermaplaning does not cause hair to grow back thicker, darker, or faster; it simply removes the surface layer of peach fuzz and dead skin.
Understanding Dermaplaning and Its Effects on Hair
Dermaplaning is a popular skincare treatment that involves gently scraping the skin’s surface with a sterile surgical blade. This process removes the outermost layer of dead skin cells and fine vellus hair, commonly known as peach fuzz. Many people wonder if this removal influences hair growth patterns, thickness, or color. The concern arises because shaving or cutting hair sometimes gives the illusion that hair grows back thicker or darker.
However, dermaplaning is fundamentally different from shaving hair at the skin’s surface. It targets very fine, soft hairs and exfoliates dead skin cells simultaneously. The mechanism of hair growth is rooted deep in the hair follicle beneath the skin’s surface, which dermaplaning does not affect. Therefore, any changes in hair texture or growth rate after dermaplaning are purely perceived rather than real.
How Hair Growth Works: The Science Behind It
Hair growth occurs in cycles governed by follicles located beneath the skin’s surface. Each follicle goes through three phases:
- Anagen (Growth Phase): Active hair growth lasting several years.
- Catagen (Transition Phase): Short stage where growth slows.
- Telogen (Resting Phase): Follicle rests before shedding and regrowth.
The visible part of the hair shaft is dead keratin cells extending from the follicle. Cutting or removing this shaft doesn’t influence the follicle’s activity or how thick or fast new hairs grow.
Dermaplaning only removes hairs at or just above the skin surface and exfoliates dead cells. Since it doesn’t penetrate deep enough to reach follicles, it cannot alter the biology controlling hair production.
The Myth of Thicker Hair After Dermaplaning
Many people report that after dermaplaning or shaving, their hair seems thicker or coarser when it grows back. This common misconception stems from how trimmed hairs feel and look compared to natural tapered ends.
When hair grows naturally, its tip is tapered and soft. Shaving cuts this tip bluntly, creating a thicker feel as it emerges from the follicle again. Similarly, dermaplaned hairs appear blunt when they regrow but are not actually thicker or denser.
Studies confirm that neither dermaplaning nor shaving changes follicular activity or increases melanin production responsible for darker hairs. The apparent change is purely tactile and visual.
Comparing Dermaplaning with Other Hair Removal Methods
Different hair removal methods affect hair differently. Understanding these differences clarifies why dermaplaning does not impact hair growth like other methods might.
| Method | Hair Removal Depth | Effect on Hair Growth |
|---|---|---|
| Dermaplaning | Surface (dead skin + peach fuzz) | No change; removes only fine vellus hairs temporarily |
| Shaving | Surface (cuts visible shaft) | No change; blunt tips may feel coarser but no follicle effect |
| Waxing/Plucking | Pulls hairs from root (follicle level) | Might reduce density over time due to follicle trauma |
| Laser Hair Removal | Targets follicle with light energy | Reduces or stops growth by damaging follicles permanently |
As shown above, only methods that directly damage or remove follicles—like waxing or laser treatments—can alter future hair growth patterns. Dermaplaning falls into a gentle category that only removes superficial hairs without impacting follicles.
The Role of Skin Type and Hair Characteristics
Individual differences in skin and hair type can influence how dermaplaning feels and looks post-treatment. People with darker, coarser facial hair might notice more visible regrowth after dermaplaning compared to those with lighter peach fuzz.
However, this variation does not mean dermaplaning changes their natural growth cycle. Instead, it reflects normal biology combined with how bluntly cut hairs appear when they first emerge from follicles.
People prone to hormonal fluctuations — such as those with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) — may experience increased facial hair regardless of dermaplaning treatments. In such cases, dermaplaning offers temporary smoothing but won’t address underlying causes of excess growth.
The Benefits of Dermaplaning Beyond Hair Removal
Although dermaplaning does not affect long-term hair growth, its benefits extend far beyond removing peach fuzz:
- Smoother Skin Texture: By exfoliating dead skin cells, dermaplaning reveals fresh, glowing skin underneath.
- Improved Product Absorption: Skincare serums and moisturizers penetrate better after removing the barrier of dead cells.
- Makeup Application: Makeup glides on more evenly and looks more natural on freshly dermaplaned skin.
- Non-Invasive and Painless: Unlike waxing or laser treatments, dermaplaning is gentle and requires no downtime.
- Safe for Most Skin Types: Suitable for sensitive skin without causing irritation common in harsher exfoliation methods.
These advantages make dermaplaning a favored choice for those seeking radiant skin without altering their natural hair growth cycle.
How Often Should You Dermaplane?
The frequency depends on individual needs but generally ranges between every 3 to 4 weeks. This timing aligns with typical skin cell turnover cycles and allows for comfortable regrowth of vellus hairs without irritation.
Overdoing it can lead to sensitivity or minor abrasions, so professional advice is recommended for first-timers or those with sensitive skin conditions like rosacea or eczema.
Addressing Common Concerns About Dermaplaning and Hair Growth
Many concerns arise around dermaplaning’s impact on facial hair due to myths passed down through generations about shaving and waxing. Let’s address some key worries:
“Will my peach fuzz grow back darker?”
Nope! The color and thickness are determined by genetics and hormones—not by removing surface hairs.
“Can dermaplaning cause more facial hair to appear?”
No evidence supports this. If you notice increased facial hair after starting dermaplaning, it’s likely due to hormonal shifts unrelated to treatment.
“Is it safe for sensitive skin?”
Yes, when done correctly by trained professionals using sterile tools, dermaplaning is safe for most skin types including sensitive ones.
“How soon will I see new peach fuzz after treatment?”
Vellus hairs typically regrow within a week or two because they have a short growth cycle compared to terminal hairs on scalp or body.
The Importance of Professional Dermaplaning vs. DIY Methods
While home kits exist for dermaplaning, professional treatments offer superior safety and results:
- Proper Technique: Estheticians use precise angles and pressure to avoid cuts or irritation.
- Sterile Equipment: Reduces risk of infection.
- Customized Treatment: Tailored to your unique skin type and concerns.
- Avoids Over-Exfoliation: Professionals know when enough is enough to maintain healthy barrier function.
DIY attempts can lead to nicks, uneven results, or even exacerbate existing skin issues if performed incorrectly.
Key Takeaways: Does Dermaplaning Affect Hair Growth?
➤ Dermaplaning removes dead skin and peach fuzz.
➤ It does not change hair thickness or growth rate.
➤ Hair regrows at the same natural speed.
➤ Procedure is safe when done correctly.
➤ Consult a professional for best results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Dermaplaning Affect Hair Growth Patterns?
Dermaplaning does not affect hair growth patterns. It only removes the surface layer of peach fuzz and dead skin cells without impacting the hair follicles beneath the skin. Hair growth continues naturally, following its normal cycle.
Does Dermaplaning Cause Hair to Grow Back Thicker or Darker?
No, dermaplaning does not cause hair to grow back thicker or darker. The blunt edges left after treatment may make hair feel coarser initially, but this is a temporary sensation and does not reflect actual changes in hair thickness or color.
How Does Dermaplaning Influence Hair Growth Rate?
Dermaplaning does not influence the rate at which hair grows. Since it only removes hairs at or just above the skin’s surface, it does not affect the follicles that control growth speed or cycle.
Is It True That Dermaplaning Can Change Hair Texture?
The texture of regrown hair after dermaplaning may seem different because the hairs have blunt ends instead of tapered tips. However, dermaplaning does not alter the natural texture or structure of the hair itself.
Can Dermaplaning Permanently Alter Hair Follicles?
No, dermaplaning cannot permanently alter hair follicles. The treatment is superficial and does not penetrate deep enough to affect follicular biology or hair production mechanisms.
The Final Word – Does Dermaplaning Affect Hair Growth?
The answer is clear: Dermaplaning does not affect how your facial hair grows back—it neither thickens nor darkens it. It simply removes fine vellus hairs and dead skin cells from the surface temporarily.
This treatment offers glowing, smooth skin without altering your natural biology beneath the surface. If you’re seeking a gentle exfoliation method that enhances your complexion without changing your natural hair pattern, dermaplaning fits perfectly.
Understanding this helps dispel common myths surrounding facial treatments and encourages informed decisions about skincare routines based on science rather than hearsay.
So go ahead—enjoy that fresh-faced glow without worrying about unwanted changes in your peach fuzz!