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Byrdie / Chloe Jeong
There are chemical exfoliators (like lactic acid, salicylic acid, and glycolic acid) and physical exfoliators (like when you use a washcloth or a scrub), and then there’s dermaplaning. Never heard of it? Let us explain. Typically performed by pros, this is a procedure where a scalpel is used to scrape along the surface of your skin to remove dead cells and vellus hair (aka peach fuzz). Not only does it help your makeup go on smoother, your skincare sink in faster, and your complexion look glowier, but it can also help to even out your skin tone and reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles. And despite what it sounds like, it's not scary at all.
The good news for you is that you no longer have to go to your derm for dermaplaning. Since the treatment has become so popular, there are lots of DIY options you can use at home to get similar results. But there are some key pointers you should keep in mind before getting started: Always start with clean, freshly washed skin, and dermaplane at night so your skin has time to recoup. Now you’ll just have to decide which tool is right for you.
Read on for the best dermaplaning tools to use at home.
Best Overall: Stacked Skincare Dermaplaning Facial Exfoliation Tool
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The durability and chic design of this reusable dermaplaning tool just might make you feel like you’re on an episode of Grey’s Anatomy—in the best possible way (and without the blood). The expert-approved tool will slough off peach fuzz and dead skin to leave you with a baby soft, smooth complexion. We also love the sturdy aluminum handle that makes you feel like you’re in control when you’re holding it. Each blade lasts through four uses before you pop it out and insert a new one.
Best Budget: Tinkle Eyebrow Razor
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Don’t be fooled: While the label says “eyebrow razor,” these small but mighty hair removers can be used for your whole face. The blades are extra sharp so there’s no tugging or pulling when you swipe it across your skin. And because they’re such a steal you won’t mind so much when the blades get dull. Just be sure you pull off the safety cover before trying to use it.
Best Luxury: Dermaflash Luxe Anti-Aging Dermaplaning Exfoliation Device
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Founded by a medspa owner, this dermaplaner is the real deal. Accompanying the stainless steel blade is a subtle sonic vibration that better helps to remove facial hair and dull skin for a fresh glow. The kit comes with four blades (use a new one each time for the best results) along with a travel-size cleanser and moisturizer to help your newly revealed skin stay fresh and glowing. Another perk unrelated to the skin benefits: It comes in multiple colors.
Best Drugstore: Schick Silk Touch-Up Facial Razor
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We’ll be stocking up on this trio of facial razors so we never have to work with a dull blade again. The set also comes with a cover that can be put on the blades to create a more precise shave for those smaller areas like your eyebrows. Keep one in your bathroom, your purse, and your car so that you’re always armed when that good light hits and you spot some unwanted hair.
What Our Testers Say
"After I finished using the facial razor, I noticed a few differences. For me, the effects of dermaplaning were more so felt than seen. I could tell that the area around my mouth appeared lighter once I shaved the hair away. But, the biggest impact dermaplaning had on my skin was with its texture. My skin felt smoother and softer post-dermaplaning." — Olivia Hancock, Product Tester
Best for Trims: Philips Beauty PrecisionPerfect Trimmer
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If you're looking to trim facial hair instead of shaving it super closely, snag this product from Philips. In addition to its sleek trimming head, it comes with a precision attachment so you can zero in on a particular area, as well as a click-on trimming comb, which allows you to shape your eyebrows to a uniform length. Plus, it includes a travel cap and a cleaning brush to keep things hygienic.
Best Lighted: Flawless Dermaplane GLO
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There’s a reason we tend to notice our flaws the most when we’re in the car waiting at a stoplight: It’s the sun. And while you could whip out your dermaplaning tool in between red lights, it might not be the safest best. Instead, grab this tool that includes a bright light on the end to help light the way as you smooth away peach fuzz and dead skin. Afterward, your skin will be glowing, no matter the lighting.
Best for Travel: SIMA Sonic Dermaplaning Tool
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This electric dermaplaner pulses 15,000 times per minute to help lift away dead skin cells and tiny hairs. It's powered by a single battery that can be recharged as needed, and the entire tool can be placed in your carry-on or checked luggage because it is lithium-free. You’ll get seven single-use blades and can choose from three different speed settings.
Best for Safety: FLAMINGO Feather Facial Touch-Up Razor
These bright-colored facial razors might look simple, but their design is super smart. Their flamingo-style heads fold over onto themselves to prevent you from scratching yourself when you're not using them. Plus, they're super affordable.
Best for Beginners: Tweezerman Bright Complexion Facial Dermaplaner
First-timers will like the thick, ergonomic handle on this dermaplaner that makes it easier to remain in control (and is less likely to cause slip-ups). You’ll also get three replacement blades that easily slide in and out and click into place, ready to remove peach fuzz and exfoliate dry skin. Many reviewers noticed a glowing complexion but also noted that you must use it while your skin is wet or very well moisturized to reap the benefits. Try keeping it in your shower so you won’t forget.
Best Electric: Michael Todd Beauty Sonicsmooth Sonic Dermaplaning & Exfoliation System
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Take your dermaplaning up a notch with this electric version. With over 15,000 sonic pulses a minute, you hardly have to do any of the work. There are also three-speed settings so you can start slow and work your way up as you get more confident and comfortable. When you’re done, leave it on the included charging dock—each full charge will last three hours. There’s also a two-month supply of stainless steel blades included—what more do you need?
Best for Brows: Finishing Touch Flawless Dermaplane Facial Exfoliator and Hair Remover
While this set of four comes with two long blades for your face, we love the shorter blades that are specifically designed to be used around your brows. The caps have small brushes on them to help brush your brows out of the way and back into place before and after use to make sure you’re only getting the hairs that you intended to. Just keep in mind that you should never dermaplane the skin underneath your brows or on your eyelids because it’s just too thin.
Final Verdict
Team Byrdie loves the Stacked Skincare Dermaplaning Facial Exfoliation Tool for its ergonomic design and sharp, replaceable blade (you can reuse the handle as many times as you wish). As far as budget buys are concerned, the Tinkle Eyebrow Blade is also a winner. It's an option that's sharp, affordable, and easily accessible online. And if you want to go all out, Dermaflash's LUXE Anti-Aging Dermaplaning Exfoliation Device will do wonders for your skin.
What to look for when buying a dermaplaning tool
For at-home use, go for a single blade device designed by an aesthetician or reputable skincare brand. It depends on personal preference, but you can try using a facial razor or eyebrow shaper. Replace the blade regularly too — using a blunt razor won’t give you the best results, or could lead to nicks and/or irritation.
FAQs
What is dermaplaning?
Dermaplaning, also referred to as dermablading, is essentially a manual form of exfoliation that involves the use of a small blade to scrape away dead surface skin cells and peach fuzz (or those soft, fluffy facial hairs you might see when the light hits). While it's traditionally performed by a professional in a clinic, recent innovations in at-home tools have helped the DIY-dermaplaning trend to take off.
How do you use a dermaplaning tool at home?
It’s important to start with clean, dry skin. Making sure the tool is sterilized, pull the skin taut, and move downwards in short strokes. Try to avoid the hairline, eye area, and sides of the nose. And don’t apply too much pressure!
Is dermaplaning safe?
According to Kaye Scott and Lisa Sullivan-Smith, founders of Australian facial outpost The Clinic, slight nicks can occur (albeit rarely), so they don’t recommend dermaplaning as a treatment for acne-prone skin. As with any method of exfoliation, overuse can lead to irritation, so tread carefully and avoid if your skin is broken, sensitive, or susceptible to cysts and whiteheads. If you’re using other exfoliating acids (like AHAs and BHAs), or a vitamin A product and feel unsure, speak to your dermatologist or aesthetician.
How often should you use a dermaplaning tool?
Because dermaplaning removes actual skin (as opposed to just hair) once a month is a good place to start when performing the treatment at home. We wouldn’t recommend dermaplaning more than once a fortnight.
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