In today's market, there are so many new procedures and products designed to make us look younger. In the addition to the common skin care procedures we have discussed in yesterday's post, there is also one that I found to be particularly interesting. It is called Dermaplaning. Many people confuse it with dermabrasion - a medical procedure in which the skin is abraded down to the dermis using a whisklike device. Unlike dermabrasion, which is usually associated with many complications, dermaplaning is a simple and safe shaving of the epidermis. Although many people have never heard of it, dermaplaning has been around for the last 35 years. Due to the switch to high-definition TV and advances in digital photography that are showing every flaw, this procedure has been on the rise in the past few years. Dermaplaning is performed by a licensed aesthetician who has been specially trained. Today I have invited a Virginia licensed Master Esthetician - Ksenia Vinichenko - to help us learn more about this procedure. Ksenia is a talented and experienced esthetician, who has recently opened her own skin and waxing studio in Virginia Beach. Although dermaplaning is just one of many services she offers, she admits that it is her favorite one.
Aleksandra Andrade: Ksenia, it is so nice to have you here! I am sure many of our readers have no idea of what dermaplaning is. Can you please shed some light on what this procedure is and explain us how is it done?
Ksenia Vinichenko: Dermaplaning, also called epidermal leveling, is a procedure that involves scraping the skin at a 45 degree angle using a scalpel like device called a dermablade to remove the uppermost layer of dead skin cells and fine vellus hair. It is a physical exfoliation that, unlike scrubs or microdermabrasion, provides the added benefit of removing “peach fuzz” from the face.
Aleksandra: Scalpel like? This sound a bit scary (laughing). How safe is this procedure?
Ksenia: Dermaplaning is a very effective, safe and quick procedure with few to no side effects. The only thing you need to do during the treatment is relax and remain still.
Aleksandra: What are the benefits of dermaplaning?
Ksenia: There are many benefits to dermaplaning. Once we get into our 30s, the natural cell turnover process begins to slow down causing some individuals to have up to 90 days of dead skin cells layered upon the surface. This build up accentuates the appearance of wrinkles, dulls the skin tone and results in makeup looking "cakey". During this time, we also produce more vellus hair or peach fuzz. Dermaplaning immediately rejuvenates the skin leaving it smooth, supple, and vibrant. It is highly effective for smoothing rough texture and minimizing the appearance of uneven skin tone, fine lines, wrinkles and acne scars. This removal of the skin barrier also allows for even and increased penetration of active ingredients in both treatment and home care products.
Aleksandra: Wow, this sounds impressive! How long do the results of this procedure last?
Ksenia.: You will see instant results that can last up to four weeks.
Aleksandra: Now how about contraindications?
Ksenia: The only contraindications to dermaplaning include an allergy to nickel, numerous raised lesions on the skin and inflamed acne. Dermaplaning does not use chemicals or abrasive devices, making this also a great procedure for women who are pregnant or nursing and want deep exfoliation.
Aleksandra: At what occasions would you recommend getting this procedure done?
Ksenia: Dermaplaning is an excellent preparation to enhance the effectiveness of chemical peels and laser procedures. It is also used post-peel to remove remaining shedding skin once the peel has concluded. Clients love the way their skin feels and looks immediately following treatment. It is truly an instant gratification experience. Makeup glides on beautifully following treatment, so it is often requested by clients prior to important events, such as weddings.
Aleksandra: I wonder, will the hair grow thicker and darker after this procedure?
Ksenia: (Laughing) no, absolutely not. As long as you are removing vellus hair, it will grow at the same rate and texture as before the treatment.
Aleksandra: I am sure that there is one more question, that some of our readers may have. So why should we go to see a professional for this treatment? Can't we achieve same results just by shaving our faces ourselves with an ordinary razor?
Ksenia: The results that can be achieved are quite different. Basic shaving is designed to get rid of unwanted hair and does not deliver the exfoliation benefits of dermaplaning. Dermaplaning uses a special technique and a medical grade device that helps client achieve a desired level of exfoliation with getting rid of that "peach fuzz" being an extra bonus.
I'd love to thank Ksenia for taking her time to answer my questions regarding dermaplaning! It is really a great and relatively inexpensive procedure. I speak from personal experience here, as I have gotten it done a few times and loved the results!
Do you live in Hampton Roads area of Virginia, or Visiting here for summer, then go ahead and make that dermaplaning appointment with Ksenia. Her studio - Ksenia's Skin and Waxing studio - is currently open by appointment only and is located at 1642 Pleasure House Road, Suite 106, Virginia Beach, VA 23455. To make an appointment visit her website www.kseniasstudio.com or call (757) 880-4489. You can also follow Ksenia of Facebook.
Still not convinced? Have more questions? Scroll down and leave me your comment.