Dermaplaning in Calgary
Precision manual exfoliation using a sterile surgical blade to gently remove accumulated dead skin cells and vellus hair from the skin’s surface. Immediate smoothness, improved light reflection, and optimized product penetration – without acids, thermal energy, or downtime.
Best for: Dull skin, rough texture, surface dryness, peach fuzz, uneven makeup application
Treatment type: In-clinic manual exfoliation procedure (20-60 minutes)
Performed by: Medical skin professionals under the direction of Marie Bertrand, Microbiologist & Joseph MacDonald, MD CFPC
Quick Overview
- What it does: Removes dead skin cells and vellus hair for immediately smoother, brighter skin and enhanced product absorption
- Ideal candidates: Dull skin, rough texture, dry buildup, peach fuzz, patients wanting gentle non-chemical exfoliation
- Typical sessions: Monthly maintenance treatments (every 3-4 weeks)
- Downtime: None; mild pinkness possible for a few hours
- Safety profile: Superficial and low-risk when performed by trained professionals
- When results appear: Immediately smoother and more radiant skin after a single session
- Starting from: $95, based on standalone or combination treatment
What Dermaplaning Treats
Sometimes the most effective improvement comes from removing what’s dulling your skin rather than adding more treatments. Dermaplaning provides instant brightness and smoothness by physically removing the barrier of dead cells and fine hair that sit on the skin’s surface.
Dermaplaning is ideal when:
- Skin appears dull despite good skincare habits
- Rough texture persists on the surface
- Surface dryness and dead cell buildup are visible
- Makeup sits unevenly or doesn’t apply smoothly
- Vellus facial hair (peach fuzz) is bothersome
- Mild superficial pigmentation needs gentle attention
Dermaplaning is a surface-level refinement treatment. It does not treat deep acne scars, active cystic acne, moderate to severe wrinkles, or significant laxity.
This treatment may not be appropriate for patients with active acne, inflamed rosacea, open wounds, or very sensitive skin.
This treatment may not be appropriate for patients with active skin infections, inflammatory acne flares, or certain medical skin conditions. A consultation is essential to determine suitability.
How Dermaplaning Works
Manual Exfoliation with Precision
During treatment, a sterile surgical blade is held at a precise angle and drawn across the skin in controlled strokes. This gently removes the outermost layer of dead skin cells (stratum corneum) and vellus hair simultaneously.
By removing accumulated keratinized cells, dermaplaning enhances product absorption, improves light reflection (creating an instant glow), creates smoother makeup application, and reduces superficial buildup.
What Dermaplaning Does NOT Do
Dermaplaning does not alter hair structure or growth pattern. Vellus hair grows back at the same thickness and rate. It does not stimulate collagen, treat deep scars, or provide the level of correction that laser, microneedling, or chemical peels deliver. It is a maintenance and enhancement treatment, not a corrective one.
The SkinScience Protocol
At SkinScience, dermaplaning is never rushed. We evaluate barrier health, acne activity, skin sensitivity, and recent treatments before proceeding. We prioritize barrier integrity and avoid over-exfoliation. Our philosophy: polish – don’t traumatize.
Comparisons
Dermaplaning vs Chemical Peels
- Peels exfoliate chemically with varying degrees of intensity
- Dermaplaning exfoliates mechanically with zero peeling downtime
- Dermaplaning is ideal for patients who prefer non-chemical approaches
Dermaplaning vs Microdermabrasion
- Microdermabrasion uses abrasive crystals or diamond tips
- Dermaplaning uses a smooth surgical blade for gentler exfoliation
- Dermaplaning may be more suitable for sensitive skin types
Dermaplaning vs Laser Treatments
- Lasers stimulate collagen and treat pigment, vessels, and deeper concerns
- Dermaplaning only refines the surface
- Dermaplaning is best viewed as maintenance between more advanced treatments
Dermaplaning vs At-Home Facial Razors
- Consumer facial razors lack the precision angle and sterile surgical-grade blade
- Professional dermaplaning removes more accumulated dead cells with controlled technique
- Risk of nicks, irritation, and inconsistent results is higher with at-home tools
Dermaplaning vs Microneedling
- Microneedling creates controlled micro-channels that stimulate collagen remodeling
- Dermaplaning removes surface debris without penetrating the dermis
- Microneedling treats scars and aging; dermaplaning provides surface polish and glow
Results, Timeline & Expectations
Dermaplaning delivers immediate, visible results after a single session.
Immediately after: Brighter appearance, smoother texture, improved makeup application.
24-48 hours: Any mild pinkness resolves.
3-4 weeks: Results gradually diminish as dead cells and vellus hair regrow.
Because the treatment is superficial, there is no peeling phase and no significant downtime. Monthly treatments maintain results.
Dermaplaning does not change hair growth rate or thickness.
Dermaplaning does not:
- Alter hair structure or growth pattern
- Stimulate collagen
- Treat deep acne scars
- Provide the level of correction that laser, microneedling, or chemical peels deliver
The strength of this treatment is cumulative, progressive improvement that compounds over time with each session.
Safety & Suitability
Dermaplaning is one of the lowest-risk professional skin treatments available.
Generally suitable for:
- Most skin types
- Pregnant patients (when chemical peels may not be suitable)
- Patients wanting gentle, non-chemical exfoliation
- Sensitive skin (with proper technique)
Caution in:
- Active acne
- Inflamed rosacea
- Open wounds
- Very sensitive or irritated skin
Proper sterile technique and controlled pressure are essential for safe, effective results.
Our Clinical Approach
At SkinScience in Calgary, dermaplaning is treated with the same attention to detail as any clinical procedure. Under Marie Bertrand’s direction, we never over-exfoliate or rush through treatment.
Our philosophy: polish – don’t traumatize.
We evaluate:
- Barrier health
- Acne activity
- Skin sensitivity
- Recent treatments and products
We may integrate with:
- Medical-grade facials for deeper cleansing
- LED therapy for added recovery support
- Chemical peels in staged protocols for enhanced results
- Pre-laser preparation to optimize treatment outcomes
Frequently Asked Questions
Will dermaplaning make my hair grow back thicker?
No. Vellus hair grows back at the same thickness and rate. This is a common myth – dermaplaning does not change hair structure.
Is dermaplaning painful?
No. It is typically painless. Most patients find it relaxing.
How often can I do dermaplaning?
Every 3-4 weeks is typical for maintaining results.
Can I combine it with other treatments?
Yes. Dermaplaning is often paired with chemical peels, LED therapy, or medical-grade facials for enhanced results.
Is it safe during pregnancy?
Generally yes, as it is non-chemical and superficial. It’s often recommended as a pregnancy-safe alternative to chemical peels.
Will my skin be sensitive to the sun afterward?
Dermaplaning removes the protective layer of dead cells, so your skin may be slightly more sensitive to UV exposure. We recommend diligent sunscreen use following treatment – which is good practice regardless.
Can dermaplaning cause breakouts?
When performed with proper sterile technique, breakouts are uncommon. However, if you have active acne or congested pores, dermaplaning may not be appropriate until those concerns are managed. A consultation will determine the right timing.
Is Dermaplaning Right for You?
Dermaplaning may be ideal if you want instant glow, struggle with uneven makeup application, have dry surface buildup, prefer non-chemical exfoliation, or are between more advanced treatments.
If you are seeking scar revision, pigment correction, or skin tightening, other treatments at SkinScience may be more appropriate. A consultation will determine whether dermaplaning is best used as standalone maintenance or as part of a larger corrective strategy.
During your consultation, we will:
- Assess your skin’s current condition and barrier health
- Determine whether dermaplaning alone or a combination approach is best
- Recommend a maintenance schedule
- Discuss how dermaplaning fits into your overall skin strategy
Your skin tells your story. Let us help you write the next chapter with science, not guesswork.
