Dermaplaning aftercare: how to look after your skin
TL;DR
Good dermaplaning aftercare is simple. Wear SPF every day for at least a week, avoid heavy makeup and active skincare such as retinol and acids for 24 hours, and keep your routine gentle. Mild sensitivity for a day or so is normal. There's no downtime, so you can carry on with your day straight after treatment.
Dermaplaning aftercare is easy, but it makes a real difference to how long your smooth, bright result lasts. Dermaplaning removes a layer of dead skin cells and fine hair, so your skin is freshly exposed afterwards and needs a little extra protection.
This guide covers what's normal, what to do and avoid in the first 24 hours and the week after, and when to get in touch. Gina has over 10 years' experience in the beauty industry and specialises in skincare, and this is the advice we give every dermaplaning client at our Sutton Coldfield salon.
Quick facts
- What it is
- the routine you follow after dermaplaning to protect freshly exfoliated skin
- Downtime
- none, though mild sensitivity for a day or so is normal
- SPF
- every day for at least a week
- First 24 hours
- avoid heavy makeup and active skincare ingredients
- Retinol and acids
- pause for at least 24 hours, longer if your skin feels sensitive
- Next treatment
- most clients rebook every three to four weeks
- Price
- £40, or £15 as an add-on to a facial or peel
What is normal after dermaplaning?
After dermaplaning it's normal for your skin to look smoother and brighter straight away, and to feel slightly sensitive for a day or so. Some people notice mild pinkness that settles within a few hours. Dermaplaning is painless and non-invasive, with no downtime, so you can go straight back to your day.
Because dermaplaning removes dead skin cells and fine vellus hair, products sink in more easily afterwards. That's great for hydration, but it also means stronger products can sting, which is why the first 24 hours of dermaplaning aftercare are all about keeping things gentle.
What should you avoid after dermaplaning?
For the first 24 hours after dermaplaning, avoid heavy makeup, active skincare such as retinol, vitamin C, AHAs and BHAs, scrubs and exfoliating tools. Avoid direct sun and wear SPF every day for at least a week. It's also wise to skip saunas, steam rooms, hot yoga and swimming for a day, as heat, sweat and chlorine can irritate fresh skin.
Makeup
Ideally, give your skin a makeup-free day. If you need to wear something, choose a light, clean product and apply it with freshly washed brushes or clean fingers. You'll probably notice makeup glides on beautifully once your skin has settled.
Active skincare
Your skin has just been exfoliated, so layering more exfoliation on top can lead to stinging, redness or breakouts. Reintroduce retinol and acids one at a time after 24 hours, or a little later if your skin still feels sensitive.
Gina's tip: Skip the face wipes and give your skin a really simple routine for the first day. A gentle cleanser, a good moisturiser and SPF are all it needs.
Dermaplaning aftercare: what should you do?
Good dermaplaning aftercare means cleansing gently, keeping your skin hydrated and protecting it from the sun. Freshly exfoliated skin absorbs moisture well, so it's the perfect time for a hydrating serum or a nourishing moisturiser.
- Cleanse with a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser and lukewarm water.
- Apply a hydrating serum or moisturiser morning and night.
- Wear a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher every day for at least a week.
- Use a clean pillowcase and keep your hands away from your face.
Why is SPF so important after dermaplaning?
SPF is essential after dermaplaning because removing the outer layer of dead skin cells leaves your skin more sensitive to UV for a while. Sun exposure on freshly exfoliated skin can cause irritation and uneven pigmentation. Wear SPF 30 or higher every day for at least a week, and ideally make it a daily habit all year round.
The NHS recommends a sunscreen of at least SPF 30 with a 4 or 5-star UVA rating, which is a good standard to look for when choosing a daily SPF.
Is it normal to break out after dermaplaning?
A few small spots after dermaplaning can happen, especially if you have congested skin or use heavy products straight afterwards, but it isn't common and usually settles quickly. Keeping your routine light, using clean brushes and avoiding touching your face all help. If you have active acne, dermaplaning isn't the right treatment until breakouts are under control.
If you're struggling with spots that won't settle, the NHS advises seeing a GP about acne that's persistent, painful or causing scarring.
When to get in touch
Contact us if redness or sensitivity lasts more than a couple of days. If you notice swelling, heat, crusting or signs of infection, contact your GP or NHS 111 promptly.
How often should you have dermaplaning?
Most clients book dermaplaning at Gina Rose Beauty every three to four weeks, in line with the skin's natural renewal cycle. Dermaplaning is £40 on its own, or £15 when added to a facial or peel. Many clients pair it with a peel for a deeper glow, which we explain in our guide to dermaplaning vs chemical peel.
Good dermaplaning aftercare between appointments keeps your skin calm and protected, so it's ready for the next treatment.
About the author
Gina is the owner of Gina Rose Beauty in Sutton Coldfield and has over 10 years' experience in the beauty industry. She specialises in advanced skincare and runs a fully accredited training academy for aspiring beauty professionals. Meet Gina and the team. Last reviewed: October 2026.
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Frequently asked questions
What should I avoid after dermaplaning?
Good dermaplaning aftercare means avoiding heavy makeup, active skincare such as retinol and acids, scrubs, heat and direct sun for at least 24 hours, and wearing SPF every day for at least a week.
Can I wear makeup after dermaplaning?
It's best to wait 24 hours. Part of good dermaplaning aftercare is giving your skin a makeup-free day, or using a light product with clean brushes if you need to.
Is there any downtime after dermaplaning?
No. Dermaplaning has no downtime. Mild sensitivity or pinkness for a day or so is normal.
When can I use retinol after dermaplaning?
After at least 24 hours, or a little longer if your skin still feels sensitive. Reintroduce actives one at a time.
Is it normal to break out after dermaplaning?
It isn't common, but a few small spots can happen, especially on congested skin. Keep your routine light and your brushes clean, and it usually settles quickly.
How often should I have dermaplaning?
Most clients book every three to four weeks, in line with the skin's natural renewal cycle.
How much does dermaplaning cost?
£40 on its own, or £15 when added to a facial or peel at our Sutton Coldfield salon.