Dermaplaning in Scottsdale, AZ

At Forma Plastic Surgery in Scottsdale, we offer professional dermaplaning – a precise, nonsurgical exfoliation that reveals smoother, more luminous skin. A skilled provider uses a sterile blade to lift dull surface cells and fine vellus hair, so your complexion can catch the light and welcome the products you love. It is a simple ritual with an immediately visible glow, leaving skin refreshed, revitalized, and polished.
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Table of Contents
Clinician performing dermaplaning on a patient's face with a specialized blade

What Is Dermaplaning?

Dermaplaning is a non-invasive cosmetic procedure that uses a sterile, surgical-grade scalpel held at a controlled angle to gently scrape the skin’s surface. This manual exfoliation lifts the outermost layer of dead skin cells and soft vellus hair (peach fuzz) without acids, exposing fresh, radiant, light-reflective skin. It is a comfortable, quick treatment with immediate results – an excellent choice for a refresh without downtime.

Conditions Addressed by Dermaplaning

Dermaplaning is a versatile treatment that can improve several surface concerns at once, offering a fresh start for your complexion. It is not a replacement for medical acne care or deep scar revision.
Number 1

Dull Skin and Texture

Over time, dead skin cells accumulate on the surface, leading to a dull, tired, or lackluster complexion and rough texture. Physical exfoliation removes this buildup, instantly revealing vibrant, healthy skin underneath and helping restore a softer, more even surface.
Number 2

Vellus Hair Removal

Fine, soft vellus hair (peach fuzz) can trap oil and debris, mute glow, and make makeup application less smooth. Dermaplaning safely and painlessly removes this hair for a cleaner, smoother look. Contrary to popular myth, it typically returns with the same fine quality and does not grow back thicker or darker.
Number 3

Mild Acne Scarring

While not a solution for deep acne scars, dermaplaning can help minimize the appearance of mild, superficial scarring by promoting cellular turnover and evening out the skin’s surface. Smoothing the outermost layer may make shallow irregularities less noticeable, leading to a more uniform tone and texture. Deeper marks may be better served by microneedling or chemical peels.
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Preparing for Your Treatment

Proper preparation is key to a safe, effective experience and a calm recovery. A little planning keeps the visit smooth.

Pre-Procedure Instructions
  • Avoid direct sun exposure and tanning beds for at least one week before the procedure
  • Discontinue retinoids, exfoliants, and abrasive scrubs for 3–5 days beforehand
  • Arrive with a clean face, free of makeup and lotions
  • Tell us about recent peels, retinoids, and medications
To prevent irritation or complications, avoid certain activities and products in the days leading up to treatment. These include chemical peels, waxing, harsh scrubs, strong acids, or other aggressive skin treatments in the same area.
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Clinician performing dermaplaning on a patient's face with a specialized blade

The Dermaplaning Procedure

Your visit is unhurried, from cleanse to the final, careful pass of the blade. Understanding the process can help you feel more comfortable and confident.

Step-by-Step Overview
  • Thorough cleansing of your face
  • Your aesthetician gently pulls sections of skin taut
  • A sterile, surgical-grade blade is swept in controlled strokes at an angle across the face and, when appropriate, the neck
  • The process precisely exfoliates and removes vellus hair
  • The session concludes with soothing serums and a broad-spectrum SPF
Most visits last about 20 to 45 minutes, depending on areas treated and any combined services. This makes it an ideal “lunchtime” treatment for those with busy schedules who want immediate skin rejuvenation without a significant time commitment.

Aftercare and Recovery

Dermaplaning is known for minimal downtime, but proper aftercare is essential to maintain results and protect newly exposed skin. Mild pinkness can appear, then settle into a fresh glow.

Immediate Post-Treatment Care

Immediately after, your skin may appear slightly pink, similar to a mild sunburn, but this typically subsides within a few hours.

  • Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher daily

  • Use a gentle cleanser and keep skin hydrated with a gentle moisturizer

  • Avoid direct sun exposure, excessive heat, and strenuous exercise for at least 24–48 hours

  • Refrain from harsh exfoliants or active ingredients for a few days

  • Avoid picking

To prolong benefits, incorporate a consistent, gentle skincare routine with regular moisturizing and daily SPF. Periodic follow-up sessions (typically every 3–4 weeks) help maintain a smooth, radiant complexion. Our team can recommend personalized products and map how dermaplaning fits with DiamondGlow facials, peels, or microneedling.

Dermaplaning Results

You will notice an immediate difference in texture and brightness; skin feels exceptionally smooth and appears more radiant. These initial results typically last about 3 to 4 weeks as new skin cells naturally regenerate. Texture may continue to look improved as the surface renews over the following weeks.

Benefits of Dermaplaning

This treatment delivers a brighter look, better performance from your skincare, and makeup that wears more smoothly – an everyday lift in confidence without putting life on pause.

Brighter, Smoother Skin
By removing dull, dead skin cells and fine vellus hair that can trap dirt and oil, your skin instantly appears more luminous and feels remarkably soft. This polished surface reflects light more evenly, so the complexion looks clearer, more awake, and contributes to a healthy, youthful glow.
With the barrier of dead skin cells and peach fuzz removed, serums, moisturizers, and other topical treatments can penetrate more deeply and sit closer to living skin. Active ingredients work more efficiently, so your at-home routine may feel more rewarding and deliver superior results.
Dermaplaning creates an incredibly smooth canvas, so the foundation no longer settles into fine hairs or appears cakey on uneven texture. Cosmetics glide on rather than cling to dry patches, blend more easily, often look polished with less product, last longer, and finish naturally without emphasizing imperfections.

Potential Risks and Side Effects

Dermaplaning is a very safe, low-risk procedure when performed by a trained professional. Like all cosmetic treatments, it carries some minimal potential risks and deserves a clear conversation.

Common Side Effects

The most common side effects are mild and temporary.

  • Slight redness, dryness, mild sensitivity, or a feeling of tightness immediately after

  • Rarely, minor nicks or scratches; these typically heal quickly without lasting marks

  • Our experienced team uses sterile, surgical-grade blades for each session

  • We recommend following all pre- and post-treatment instructions

  • Share your history, avoid unsterile at-home blades, and protect treated skin from the sun

Cost of Dermaplaning in Scottsdale, AZ

Dermaplaning in Scottsdale, AZ, typically ranges from $75 to $250 per session. The price depends on:

  • Session length, add-on products, and combination treatments (like masks or serums)

  • Quality of service, the sterile environment, and professional-grade products

  • Provider, anatomy, treatment plan, and individual skin needs

Treatment Packages
Many practices, including Forma Plastic Surgery, offer treatment packages that can provide better value for regular sessions or when combined with other aesthetic services. One visit offers an instant refresh; a series supports ongoing smoothness. Ask our team about current offers and options that fit your calendar and goals.

Why Choose Forma Plastic Surgery for Your Dermaplaning?

Choosing Forma Plastic Surgery means entrusting your skin to a plastic surgery practice that prioritizes aesthetics, medical integrity, personalized care, and natural-looking results. Med spa services are overseen by board-certified plastic surgeons, ensuring a higher standard of safety and care. Our skilled professionals use precise techniques in a safe and comfortable environment to enhance your confidence and deliver exceptional outcomes.
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Frequently Asked Questions

Is dermaplaning painful?
No. Most patients describe a gentle scraping or light brushing against the skin, not pain. Numbing is usually unnecessary.
This is a common misconception. Dermaplaning removes vellus hair (peach fuzz), which is different from terminal hair; removing it with a blade does not alter the follicle. Hair typically returns with the same fine texture and does not grow back thicker, darker, or coarser.
For optimal results, we typically recommend dermaplaning every 3–4 weeks. This aligns with your skin’s natural cell turnover cycle, helping maintain a consistently smooth and radiant complexion.
Yes, you can apply makeup immediately after dermaplaning. Many clients find that makeup applies more smoothly and flawlessly on newly exfoliated skin.
For the first 24–48 hours, avoid direct sun exposure, excessive heat, harsh exfoliants, and active skincare ingredients like retinoids. Always use a broad-spectrum sunscreen.
Dermaplaning is safe for most skin types. Individuals with active acne, rosacea, eczema, or highly sensitive skin should consult with a specialist before treatment.
No. Dermaplaning is physical exfoliation with a blade, while peels use solutions. They can complement each other when planned together.

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Ready for skin that looks as vibrant as you feel? Book a consultation with our team. Individual results are not guaranteed and may vary.
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