Dermaplaning
Professional dermaplaning at Sanger Avenue Medical Aesthetics in Waco, Texas.
At Sanger Avenue Medical Aesthetics, we offer professional dermaplaning: a precise, manual exfoliation treatment performed using a surgical-grade blade that removes the outermost layer of dead skin cells and fine vellus hair (peach fuzz) from the face in a single, efficient treatment.
It's important to understand that professional dermaplaning is not the same as at-home dermaplaning tools or small tinkle razors. We use actual surgical-grade blades, wielded by trained professionals working under the licensure of our medical director, Dr. Patricia Wilcox, M.D.. These professionals understand the proper angle, pressure, and technique required to treat the skin safely and effectively. The difference in result (and safety) is significant.
The outcome is immediately visible: skin that is noticeably smoother, more luminous, and more even in texture. The skin also has better product absorption and provides a flawless canvas for makeup application. It's one of our most satisfying instant-gratification treatments, and one that enhances the results of virtually every other service in our practice.
- Removes the outermost layer of dead, dull skin cells
- Removes fine vellus facial hair (peach fuzz)
- Dramatically improves skin texture and surface smoothness
- Enhances product penetration (actives absorb more deeply on freshly dermaplaned skin
- Creates a flawless base for makeup application
- Brightens overall complexion and improves radiance
- No chemicals, no heat, no downtime
Nope! This is one of the most persistent myths about dermaplaning and it is simply not true. Vellus hair (the fine, soft peach fuzz on the face) does not have the same structure as terminal hair and cannot be changed by shaving or dermaplaning. Removing it does not alter the hair follicle or affect how the hair grows back. When it returns, it will be exactly the same fine, soft vellus hair as before. This myth applies to all types of facial hair removal including shaving and has been debunked by dermatological research.
Professional dermaplaning involves a gentle scraping sensation across the skin. Most patients find it comfortable and some describe it as oddly satisfying. There is no pain, no heat, and no discomfort. The sensation is sometimes compared to a gentle windshield wiper motion across the face. Most patients are surprised by how comfortable the treatment is given their initial apprehension about blades near their face.
Most patients experience little to no visible redness after dermaplaning. The skin may appear slightly pink immediately after treatment (similar to a mild flush) which typically resolves within 30-60 minutes. There is no peeling, no swelling, and no meaningful downtime. Most patients return to their full routine, including makeup, the same day. In fact, many patients schedule dermaplaning specifically before events or photoshoots because of how immediately polished and smooth the skin looks afterward.
Dermaplaning is suitable for most skin types. Dry, normal, combination, and mature skin in particular respond very well. It's an excellent option for patients who cannot tolerate chemical exfoliants due to sensitivity. It's particularly beneficial for patients with dry, flaky, or dull skin and for anyone who wants to enhance the penetration and effectiveness of their regular skincare products. Patients with active acne breakouts, highly inflamed skin, active rosacea flare-ups, or open wounds in the treatment area are not candidates for dermaplaning. Your provider will assess your skin's current condition at your appointment.
Active acne is a contraindication for dermaplaning. Running a blade over active breakouts risks spreading bacteria, irritating inflamed skin, and causing further breakouts. For patients with acne-prone skin that is currently clear or only mildly congested, dermaplaning can be appropriate. Your provider will assess your skin's condition at the appointment and advise accordingly. For patients with active acne, we generally recommend exploring our non-ablative acne facial, high frequency treatments, or the Carbon Facial as more appropriate alternatives.
Dermaplaning can be performed every 3-4 weeks. This timing aligns with the skin's natural cell turnover cycle, allowing enough time for the skin to regenerate before the next treatment. More frequent dermaplaning doesn't enhance results and may over-exfoliate the skin. Many patients incorporate dermaplaning into their regular facial schedule on a monthly basis.
Yes, significantly! Freshly dermaplaned skin has dramatically improved absorption of topical products and treatment actives. Any treatment applied after dermaplaning (whether a chemical peel, a serum, LED light therapy, or a HydraFacial) will penetrate more deeply and work more effectively on freshly exfoliated skin. This is why dermaplaning is such a popular pre-treatment step and facial add-on: it amplifies the results of whatever follows it.
Professional dermaplaning uses surgical-grade blades applied by trained practitioners at the precise angle, pressure, and technique required to safely and effectively exfoliate the dead cell layer. In Texas, dermaplaning can only be performed under a physicians licensure. At home dermaplaning tools and tinkle razors use smaller, lower-grade blades designed for consumer safety. They are adequate for surface hair removal but don't deliver the meaningful physical exfoliation that transforms skin texture. The result of professional dermaplaning is immediately and noticeably different from at-home tools: smoother, brighter skin that reflects the removal of actual dead skin buildup rather than just surface fuzz.
Dermaplaning is most commonly performed as a facial add-on and enhances the results of almost any facial treatment it's paired with as product penetration is significantly improved on a freshly dermaplaned surface. It works particularly well before a chemical peel, HydraFacial, or LED treatment where deeper penetration of active ingredients or light energy is beneficial. For patients receiving SkinPen, laser resurfacing, or NouvaDERM, dermaplaning scheduled in the weeks betwen those appointments maintains smooth, clear skin and enhances the absorption of medical-grade skincare products from SkinCeuticals or Hydrinity. Your provider will recommend the right pairing and scheduling approach at your consultation.