Can You Dermaplane If You Have Acne or Sensitive Skin?

The short answer? It depends on your skin and how you approach it.

At-home dermaplaning has become a go to treatment for smooth, glowing skin. But if you’re dealing with acne or sensitivity, you might be wondering: is it safe?

Let’s break it down based on your skin type.

Acne-Prone Skin: Yes, With Conditions

If you’ve got active, inflamed breakouts, it’s best to skip dermaplaning for now. Running a blade over acne lesions can irritate the skin, spread bacteria, and delay healing.

But if your acne is under control think occasional breakouts, blackheads, or congestion dermaplaning can actually help. It removes surface dead skin that might otherwise clog pores and helps your skincare penetrate better.

Tip: Only dermaplane on clear areas, and never go over open pimples or irritated spots.

Sensitive Skin: Proceed with Care

If your skin reacts easily to products or temperature changes, go slow. Start by dermaplaning once a month to see how your skin responds.

Use the lightest pressure possible, and choose blades designed for sensitive skin. Always follow with calming, fragrance-free products and avoid actives for 48 hours before and after.

If your skin gets red, itchy, or stings after dermaplaning, give it more time to recover between sessions or skip it entirely.

Post Care Is Everything

No matter your skin type, what you do after dermaplaning makes a big difference. Stick to hydrating products, avoid exfoliants, and always wear SPF the next day.

Final Thoughts

Dermaplaning can work beautifully for acne prone or sensitive skin but it’s not one size fits all. The key is to be gentle, patient, and listen to your skin. When in doubt, less is more.