5.07.2015

How To: DIY Dermaplane (Benefits & Review & FAQ)

Hey you! Confession time y'all: I occasionally shave my face. Sound crazy? Wait! Hear me out! What I do is an at-home version of dermaplaning.  I have been asked so many times to talk about this, so after 5 years of doing it, I finally am! And there are so many benefits!


  • Exfoliation of skin
  • Smoother skin
  • Smoother makeup application
  • Personally, I feel like my skincare products are more effective because they can really sink into skin.
Does it actually make a difference? Here's an embarrassing before and after:
Another reason: some of us have darker hair and some of us have a lot of peach fuzz. I have both, so I dermaplane. Here are some common questions:

  • Does it hurt? 
    • No.
  • That razor looks huge! I'm worried I'll cut myself! 
    •   I have never cut myself when shaving my face (knock on wood), but I'm not rushing through it either. 
  • What razor do I use? The same as my husband?
    • You can certainly lather up and use your husband's razor, but I don't think it's necessary. I like to use Fromm and Tinkle (in the top pic) razors, both from Sally Beauty. I also like the small ones from Sephora. Fromm makes small ones as well for those areas like the upper lip and between the brows. If I'm in a hurry, I'll use a battery-powdered razor, like the one from Finishing Touch, pictured below:






But won't my hair grow back thicker? Faster? Longer? I don't want a beard!
    • No. I cannot believe people still believe this old wives' tale! When I first started, I only shaved one half of my face to see and compare if it was really worth it. Guess what? Once I let my facial hair grow back in, both sides looked THE SAME. 
    • Because I am a super dedicated beauty blogger (I totally have no life), I actually looked at the peach fuzz under a microscope to further prove my point. On some hairs from the shaved side the angle was different (like you could tell they were cut at an angle), but other than that, you can't tell a difference. Trust.
  • So how do you do it?
*Shave away from hair growth if you don't have sensitive acne-prone skin.

I do this on clean, dry skin, but you can lather up and use a razor like for yours legs if you'd like. 
Sometimes I shave all of my face, but usually I shave the peach fuzz around my cheeks, as pictured, my upper lip, and between my brows. 

I hold my skin taut and shave away from the hair growth. I have done it with and against hair growth and truly have noticed zero difference between the two on my skin. My skin is soft either way. You shave your legs, right? And it's smooth, right? Why not try that for your face?

HOWEVER, if you are acne-prone, I would definitely recommend (1) doing a patch test--shaving a small area (2) shaving with hair growth.

  • How often do you do it?
    • I dermaplane a couple of times a month. It takes maybe 5 minutes. I make sure to clean off my razor (and I go a step further and disinfect) After two months, I throw out my razor and get a new one. Sometimes I'll use 2 razors--the regular size and a smaller brow one.
  • What are the side effects?
    • No one I've ever recommended this to has had a negative side effect. However, over the years I've done lots of research and any side effects have been from user error, like using a dull and/or dirty razor, not doing a patch test, etc. We see the word "razor" and we think of nicks from shaving our legs. Dermaplaning at home isn't like that.
Extra Elle:

  • How has your week been so far? It's been a stressful, emotional one for me. Just recent life events have put me more on edge and feeling sensitive than usual. I'll share more on it when I'm ready, but just keep me in your thoughts! No worries--just thinking positively.
  • Two big purchases for my upcoming beach trip--new Ray Bans and the Rebecca Minkoff bag I've wanted for ages.

56 comments:

  1. I have a pack of those, thanks for the tips.

    xo
    PinkSole

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  2. I've never tried shaving my face before but I have heard it does wonders for your makeup! I feel like I'd be the one causality of cutting myself though. Can't wait to see your new RM bag and Ray-Bans! Definitely must haves for a beach trip!

    <3, Pamela
    Sequins & Sea Breezes

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  3. I have heard this on real housewives on NJ. Is the hair growth thing really a myth?? I really thought it grew back worse.

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  4. I've done it for years too, makes applying makeup so much easier. Positive thoughts!

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  5. I do it too! I'm glad to read this because I always thought I was completely weird. I'm sorry you're having a tough week, keep that chin up -beautiful lady!

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  6. Thanks for the recommendation on razors. I thought I was the only one who did this occasionally! And thanks for the tips on doing it better too!

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  7. Thank you so much for sharing! I have always wondered ... and now I am going to take the leap and try it!
    Cheers, Monique
    Casually Chic by Monique
    Find me at : bloglovin' | instagram

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  8. I've never heard of dermaplaning before this post! It sounds easy enough though.
    Ooh congrats on the RM bag!

    xoxo,
    little luxury list formerly Chic 'n Cheap Living

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  9. Wow, this sounds brilliant, Elle. I'll be honest and admit that I don't shave at all but that's because I am hairless on legs, arms and even underarms but I can see how this will benefit many. I'm going to email this post to my best friend, she would really appreciate it! Thank you, Elle!

    Shireen | Reflection of Sanity

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  10. Elle, I use something like that from the Finishing Touch for the upper lip and brows. Makes it easy:)

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  11. I didn't know what that was actually called!! Thank you for sharing and it sounds so great - totally something i can do at home! xo, Biana -BlovedBoston

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  12. Thank you soooo very much for this review! I have a friend who loves doing it and she recommends, but I never did it and am curious to. She says models do that and recently I read about Hollywood stars doing it too. So I loved to read your review - OK, I will confess I will consult a dermatologist, like you advised if we are not so sure (I may not trust my abilities :) and maybe a test-patch will be good to start. I must say, I still don't know whether I will try... but I loved to read that there are no side-effects. I have peach "hair", nearly imperceptible. It doesn't bother me, but I am just curious about dermaplane. So now, the extra Elle. I know that a month has passed. It's that way. First we think it's like being part of a movie, that it's not true. Then it starts. It's 4 years for me and I avoid writing... be very sure I am sending you all the best vibes! And I admire you for writing about it!
    DenisesPlanet.com

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  13. Ha! Forgive me for laughing but finally a beauty post to which I can relate! I shave my face regularly because I have to, both for work and to create a feminine appearance. Plus, as we age, facial hair spreads -- I now have hairs growing out of my earlobes. How is that even possible?! This product seems a smart choice for women who want to remove the light hairs they have. Your reviews are always so helpful.

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  14. interesting.
    you look great!
    i've always been nervous to shave my face, but this eases my fears a bit!

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  15. Crazy!! I just always assumed it would grow back thicker and thats why you should wax!
    Melanie @ meandmr.com

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  16. Thank you for your tips as I need to check into this and just go ahead and do this myself.
    Rachelxo

    Garay Treasures

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  17. Omg I have never heard of doing this!! I could totally see how it would do wonders with applying your make up! I have so much peach fuzz!

    <3 Shannon
    Upbeat Soles
    

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  18. I've never shaved my face before, but it makes total sense that make up would go on smoother! I love how detailed and honest you were on your thoughts about this. When are you going to the beach? I have a trip planned in July and I seriously cannot wait. I need to grab some new beach towels and maybe a new swim suit.

    I hope you are doing well, friend. I am sending hugs.

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  19. I have actually been looking for something like this, thank you so much for posting this :-D

    I've never shaved my face, but I could definitely do away with some of the "peach fuzz" around my jawline.

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  20. wow - never knew this before! Really helpful post, thanks!! Glam Karen

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  21. Interesting! I never knew this was a thing before!
    www.amemoryofus.com

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  22. Such a good post, Elle! Thank you for all the details. I do this too and I love the way my skin products work and my makeup looks after doing it!!

    Hope your week gets better! Love that positive attitude of yours.

    xo, Mae // Mae Amor

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  23. I've tried this a few times and I definitely feel like it made my skin smoother.

    Rowena @ rolala loves

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  24. Hey girl! I totally have to shave my upper lip too. Horrible. I love this tutorial on shaving the rest of your face. Totally makes sense that your makeup would look a lot better without all that blonde peach fuzz on your cheeks! I cannot wait to see the RB bag and the Ray Bans!! Have a great time on your trip! xoxo A

    The Miller Affect

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  25. Ah, you're braver than me! Maybe one day I'll try it.

    Excited to hear about your beach trip- I totally approve of those purchases:)

    Elle
    Southern Elle Style

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  26. I know that old wives tale about hair growing back thicker isn't true, but it still freaks me out. Lol. I have never tried shaving my face. Thanks for sharing your tips!

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  27. What ?! Why have I never heard of this? I am getting one of these tools pronto! you are a genius! Susan

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  28. WHAT?!?! You blow my mind with products I didn't know existed... & I NEED this in my life!!!!
    I do have one of the battery ones for my eyebrows to thin them out - mine are so thick. It cracks me up when people use make up to make theirs thicker.

    FYI - I went & bought all new products & brushes after watching your blow out video :)

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  29. I've never heard of this before! It's cool that you got all sciency for your readers and looked under a microscope! :)

    BTW your eyes are just POPPIN' in that last photo...beautiful!

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  30. Wow, great review Elle! Seriously, THANK YOU for talking about this. I get my lip waxed when I get my eyebrows done and it's getting costly, plus it hurts. I've been thinking 'there's got to be a better way' and this sounds like it! I totally didn't realize they had this product on the market. I'll have to check it out!

    Christie
    The Closet by Christie

    www.theclosetbychristie.com

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  31. I like this option MUCH better than using hair removal products for the dark(er) hair on my cheeks/side of face. I'm guessing it doesn't work for trickier spots like those pesky hairs over our mouths? We poor women and our issues! Thanks for sharing this!!

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  32. I don't think I've seen this before. Def makes me think about going to the stupid salon once a month....thanks for sharing!

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  33. oh my goodness.. Elle, you're the best. I had no idea I could even do this! the hair on my face is like peach fuzz i guess and it's always annoyed me but i had no idea i could actually do something about it. definitely looking into those razors!
    keeping you in my thoughts girl! hope everything is okay xox

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  34. I have thought about shaving my face. After I heard makeup goes one better. I might just have to break down and do it. My week has been stressful and a emotional one.

    http://www.amysfashionblog.com

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  35. I will definitely keep you in my thoughts and prayers and I can't wait to see that Rebecca Minkoff bag! Her bags are so gorgeous

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  36. Great post. I have tried this a couple times. It is amazing how much "peach fuzz" you might not even notice. Make-up definitely does go on smoother.
    Katey
    http://www.twopeasinablog.com

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  37. I'm always so shocked more people don't do this! I have used a Tinkle razor for years to get rid of the peach fuzz and I love it!

    Aspen Kelty Marie

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  38. I thought that if you shaved your face or even just your upper lip that the hair would grow back thicker and like dark, maybe it's a myth because I totally trust you and don't think you would post anything like that! ha. I've heard of so many people say that it makes all the difference especially for your makeup, I'm not sure if I'm brave enough to try though.

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  39. Wow! So interesting, I think I need to try this!! Thanks!
    xo
    Carrie
    CS Gems

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  40. If that's your "embarrassing" before picture, you would be appalled at my face, ha! I have so much peach fuzz it's crazy!! It's crazy what a difference it makes on the face. My makeup goes on smoother, my skin feels softer and overall, I think I just feel better about the way I look! I just placed another order for more Tinkles (that makes me laugh every time) because I'm way overdue for a touch up!

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  41. Ok, you have no idea how helpful this is, we've been talking and thinking about this forever. But we totally thought the hair might grow back thicker so that is so good to know. You really are the best Elle!!

    xx 365Hangers

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  42. Can't wait to see your new sunglasses and RM bag!

    I've been doing this for a year or so and I LOVE the way my skin looks and feels after. My "peach fuzz" is very dark though so it's quite of a necessity for me.

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  43. I've never tried that before, although I have heard of it. I do sometimes notice hair on my face, but it's really light and not coarse, so I'm just going to ignore it for now :)

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  44. I haven't done this before, but now, I am tempted to give it a try!

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  45. I've always wanted to go get a professional to dermaplane, but it's great to know how easy it is to do it myself! Can't wait to see which Rebecca Minkoff bag you get! I just got a new one, and I love it!

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  46. I've heard of a lot of YouTubers who dermaplane. I came so close to trying it out myself because I feel like waxing is way too harsh on my sensitive skin. But I do believe in those old wives' tales lol. Maybe I'll test out a small section and see how it goes? You kinda sorta convinced me, Elle!

    Yay for new purchases! Sending good vibes your way and hoping all works out for you.

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  47. I use one of these for my brows (the brow size) but have been to scared to shave of peace fuze in fear that it will start growing back darker Glamour-Zine.com

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  48. I've heard so much about this, so thanks for writing a post on it! I use a battery-powered razor like the one in the second pic for those pesky sideburns. Sadly, some hairs do grow back thicker, but most don't. I'll have to get my hands on the other razor you're using!
    ~Sara

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  49. I know a lot of people that do this actually! I have never tried it, but maybe I will someday soon!

    XO,
    Emily
    Www.idodeclareblog.com

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  50. Yes! I do this regularly because of all my peach fuzz. It's blonde, but it bugs me. Ha! I just bought Tinkle razors for my friend and sister too because they are super cheap in bulk on Amazon.

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  51. Sounds so much better than plucking. I'll have to check it out!

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  52. I'm going to suggest this to my mom--shes got some thick peach fuzz! I have forever thought facial hair would grow in thicker and darker! Good to know its a myth! <3 hope everything is going well for you!

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  53. i have never tried dermaplane...but now i'm tempted to get super smooth hair-free skin :)

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  54. I recently shaved - with a foamy cream and my husband's razor! It was kind of fun and scary! I loved the results. It's much faster than depilatory cream (and way less chance of a reaction - which I had the last time I used it). I hope things get better for you soon, sweetums. Thinking of you and sending positivity your way!

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  55. Wow! I have so much "peach fuzz" but never thought about shaving my face. I just recently purchased a Tinkle for feathering my hair. I'll see if I can find one like yours.

    http://www.somethingmonumental.com

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  56. I saw the term dermaplanning and thought I was on to something new....ha...silly me, turns out I've been doing it for years, only I called it shaving :) The older I get, the more often I have to do it. I use my husband's razor in the shower with just water and whatever is on the shave strip. He shaves in the shower also so there's a mirror. I haven't cut myself yet, thank goodness! Thanks for explaining it and giving suggestions. Now I can stop searching for a new miracle hair remover.

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