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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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Type: Manual blade
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. It's a favorite of board-certified dermatologist Dr. Sandy Skotnicki, who loves the fact that the reusable handle comes with replaceable blades, lessening your carbon footprint. 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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Type: Manual disposable blade tool
Don’t be fooled: While the label says “eyebrow razor,” these small but mighty hair removers can be used for your whole face. The stainless steel 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. Did we mention they also come in an array of super cute pastel colors?
Best Splurge: Dermaflash Luxe Anti-Aging Dermaplaning Exfoliation Device
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Type: Manual tool with a disposable blade
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 fun colors, from hot pink to mint green.
What Our Editors Say
"My Dermaflash is one of my favorite beauty discoveries to date. It completely (and painlessly) removes every last piece of peach fuzz, dead skin, and product buildup from my face, leaving behind smooth, reflective, baby seal skin. It's so satisfying that it can be tempting to use it every week, but every six to eight weeks is recommended (depending on your skin type), so one pack of refill edges will last you a long time." — Holly Rhue, Editor
Best Drugstore: Schick Silk Touch-Up Facial Razor
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Type: Manual disposable blade tool
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. Plus, we love how the super slim design makes them easy to carry around with you wherever you go. 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 Budget: Kakaluote Eyebrow Razors
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Type: Manual disposable blade tool
Looking to get the most bang for your buck? For under ten bucks, you can snag a whopping 32 of these disposable eyebrow razors, which also moonlight as great dermaplaning tools. The 1.41 inch blade shapes eyebrows, removes peach fuzz, and exfoliates the skin with ease. Plus, the blades are made from stainless steel, meaning they’ll last you longer and are less likely to rust after cleaning. Also nice: They also come in a variety of fun and bright colors, making them great for sharing with your roommates and family (and way easier to distinguish which one belongs to who).
Best for Trims: Philips Beauty PrecisionPerfect Trimmer
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Type: Electric trimming tool
If you're looking to trim facial hair instead of shaving it super closely, snag this product from Philips. This battery-powered trimmer is small enough to fit into your makeup bag, and 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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Type: Electric tool with a disposable blade
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's probably not your the safest best. Instead, grab this tool, which comes equipped with 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 absolutely glowing, no matter the lighting.
Best for Travel: SIMA Sonic Dermaplaning Tool
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Type: Electric tool with a disposable blade
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's lithium-free. You can choose from three different speed settings to customize your treatment, and each kit comes with seven single-use blades to ensure you eliminate all of your peach fuzz, every time.
Best for Safety: FLAMINGO Feather Facial Touch-Up Razor
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Type: Manual disposable blade tool
These bright-colored facial razors might look simple, but their design is super smart. In addition to their safety covers, the flamingo-style heads fold over onto themselves to prevent you from scratching or cutting yourself when you're not using them, a feature that reviewers mention makes them great for packing up to travel. The blades are also made from stainless steel, making them long-lasting and protecting against rust. Plus, they're super affordable: For less than ten bucks, you can snag two three-packs, giving you six razors total.
Best for Beginners: Tweezerman Bright Complexion Facial Dermaplaner
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Type: Manual tool with a disposable blade
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. Our tip? 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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Type: Electric tool with a disposable blade
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
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Type: Manual disposable blade tool
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.
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What to Look For in a Dermaplaning Tool
Stainless Steel Blade
Dr. Skotnicki recommends looking for a product that uses a stainless steel blade. Stainless steel is not only hygienic and lasts longer, but it won’t rust after being cleaned. Stainless steel is also known to reduce inflammation, making it a great material for any type of facial tool.
Good Grip
Since dermaplaning involves gliding a sharp blade across your face, Dr. Skotnicki stresses the need for a tool with good grip. This will lessen your chances of the tool slipping, preventing possible nicks or cuts.
Reusable Handles
Dr. Skotnicki also suggests opting for products that come with a reusable handle with replaceable blades. Not only will you create less trash, but you’ll also save some money along the way by not having to replace the entire tool when the blade becomes dull. However, also be sure to replace the blade when needed; a blunt razor won’t give you the best results and could lead to nicks and/or irritation. Just be sure to dispose of any used blades safely.
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What is dermaplaning?
Dermaplaning, or 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.
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How do you use a dermaplaning tool at home?
When it comes to dermaplaning at home, Dr. Skotnicki says it’s crucial to always start with a clean, sterilized blade and a clean face. Then, holding the skin taut with the blade at an angle, use short strokes in a downward motion to remove hair, applying only light pressure.
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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.
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How often should you use a dermaplaning tool?
Because dermaplaning removes actual skin (as opposed to just hair), Dr, Skotnicki only recommends using the tool once a month. “Too often will irritate the skin,” she says.
Meet the Expert
Dr. Sandy Skotnicki is a board-certified dermatologist and allergy expert based in Toronto, Canada. She’s the author of Beyond Soap: The Real Truth About What You Are Doing to Your Skin and How to Fix It for a Beautiful, Healthy Glow and is an assistant professor in the Department of Medicine at the University of Toronto.
Kaye Scott and Lisa Sullivan-Smith are the founders of Australian facial outpost The Clinic, where dermablading (their term for dermaplaning) is a popular treatment.
According to our Diversity Pledge, 15% of products in our newly-published market roundups will feature Black-owned and/or Black-founded brands. At the time of publishing, we were not able to find any dermaplaning tools from a Black-owned and/or Black-founded business. If you know of one we should consider, please email us at contact@byrdie.com and we will evaluate the product ASAP.
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