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Dermaplaning is the biggest game changer to my beauty routine, which is saying a lot as a beauty editor who has tried every facial hair removal method. It's an exfoliating procedure that uses a blade to scrape the skin's surface to remove dead skin cells, dirt, debris, and peach fuzz, says dermatologist Dr. Azadeh Shirazi, MD. "When your skin is hairless and buildup-free, it looks super toned and bright." Plus, a freshly shaved face allows my serums and moisturizers to absorb deeper, and my makeup to glide on easier. Dermaplaning is my tool of choice for facial hair removal.
And here's the thing: You could splurge on a pricey salon service with a trained aesthetician, but I'm all about the DIY approach. While a professional treatment is more precise, at-home dermaplaning is cheaper, faster, and more convenient, especially since I have a busy schedule.
Best Dermaplaning Tools
What To Consider
My guide is a good place to start your shopping, but you might want to also keep these pointers in mind if you're in the market for a new dermaplaning tool—or you're finally ready to try one for the first time.
Blade Material
Dr. Shirazi says the most important factor to consider is a blade that is made from a durable, high-quality material. The best devices I've tested feature a stainless steel blade. That's because Dr. Shirazi says it's easy to clean, is resistant to rust, and is super sharp.
Handle Grip
When dermaplaning I prefer devices with a grippy handle, which helps control my strokes for a precise shave. More specifically, look for a tool that has a weighted handle, Dr. Shirazi says. "It should be long and have a good grip as you make the strokes on the skin." Some devices have rubber grippers for extra grip.
How We Chose
At-home skincare tools have become increasingly popular, and there are so many options to choose from, so I took matters into my own hands to carefully research the most popular, and top-rated dermaplaning tools. After narrowing my choices to 12 picks, I tested these contenders before finalizing my list. I examined the safety features, blade materials, effectiveness, and comfort to ensure these are truly the best dermaplaning tools in the game. I spent several months testing these devices to ensure they're totally worth your hard-earned money.
And to ensure that there were a slew of options across all budgets, I tapped WH associate style commerce editor Lily Wohlner, two dermatologists and an aesthetician for their guidance. Ultimately, we only liked these five dermaplaning tools. We think you'll like them too.
Pros
Thick handle makes it easy to hold
Disposable blades make it super sanitary
Cons
Very pricey, but dermatologist Dr. Camp says it's worth it
Dermaflash earned major snaps from myself, Wohlner, and Dr. Camp, so I knew it was our clear best overall pick. This high-tech gadget has a gentle pulsing technology and a super sharp blade to remove peach fuzz and dead skin cells in one fell swoop.
This electric tool provides an in-spa experience from the comfort of my bathroom. I'm always *shook* at how super smooth my face looks and feels after using the Dermaflash. The combo of tiny corrugations along the blade and gentle pulsing technology removes peach fuzz and dead skin cells instantly and safely. The entire treatment is just a few minutes, making it a wonderful treat for busy women like myself.
The exfoliation leaves my skin more luminous before applying face moisturizer. Plus, my liquid, cream, and powder makeup applies easily, and caking is non-existent. My serums and moisturizer also sink in so quickly. I see the best results when I use it every two weeks, but honestly, I use it closer to every month, and it feels like such a treat.
Yes, this is by far the most expensive option on the list, but it's worth the splurge because it provides such a close shave in seconds. The Dermaflash feels so sturdy and comfortable to use in my hand that even relative dermaplaning beginners like myself can feel confident removing peach fuzz. The sharp blade ensures I get a close shave without scratching my sensitive skin, and the thick handle makes it easier to control.
Read more: Best Electric Razors For Women
Key Specs
Type | Electric |
---|---|
Replacement Blades | 4 |
Blade Material | Stainless steel |
Safety Features | The brand offers proprietary safety features within the blade and the blades come in a protective case |
Pros
Super affordable
Comes in a pack of 12, so they last a very long time
Cons
The blades feel a bit duller than some of the other options on this list
The stainless blades are not as sharp as some of the other options on this list—and that’s OK. They do a solid job of removing dead skin cells and peachfuzz, but I’ll need to use Kitsch more frequently to achieve similar results as pricier alternatives, like Stackedskincare. But for the affordable price, they get the job done for an at-home tool.
Unlike the Dermaflash Luxe or the Versed Dermaplaning Tool, these disposable blades are packaged in sets of 12, so a one-and-done situation. You have enough tools to use one monthly and it'll last you for an entire year which is pretty sweet.
If you don't want to carry a big electric device on long vacations or need a handy option on the go, these will be your buddies. With my busy schedule, I always throw these into my bag when I'm short on time to dermaplane before a weekend trip.
I keep a few stashed in my cosmetic bag in case of a beauty emergency. These disposable powerhouses are the perfect addition to my routine when I'm traveling because they're lightweight and I can throw them away when I'm done dermaplaning my face and will never have to worry about them again.
I've found that applying a gentle oil to my skin before using these blades works wonders. It creates a smooth glide that transforms a regular at-home dermaplaning session into a luxurious spa-like experience.
Key Specs
Type | Manual |
---|---|
Replacement Blades | None |
Blade Material | Stainless steel |
Safety Features | Comes with blade caps |
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Pros
Comes with two different blades
Provides a super close shave
Cons
It's pricey, but the blade is the sharpest on this list, making it offer spa-like results
This device has two options: a precision blade for targeting tricky spots like the upper lip, and a larger blade for covering the forehead and cheeks. Each tool comes with a single large blade, and the precise model is purchased separately.
I love how easy it is to switch between the two blades. Just pop on the clear plastic safety cover over the blade, slide the current head off, then slide the replacement blade with its new lid on and you're good to go.
The compact precision head has a smooth blade that quickly grooms the brows, upper lip, precise areas of the chin where little hairs might pop up.
Regardless of which blade I opt for, I found they both provide a super close shave. Stacked glides easily across my face and eased my fear of accidentally cutting myself. And Dr. Camp backs me up, saying Stacked can improve the skin's tone and texture with consistent use.
Key Specs
Type | Manual |
---|---|
Replacement Blades | None |
Blade Material | Stainless steel |
Safety Features | Designed with safety features that offer results without scratches and scrapes |
Pros
Three different speeds to tailor to your needs
250-plus sonic movements per second to remove unwanted facial hair
Cons
Some say the charge doesn't last long
If you don't want to spend a lot of money on an electric dermaplaning tool, opt for this suuuper affordable one from Spa Sciences. It uses sonic technology and a disposable blade to instantly remove peach fuzz, buildup, and dead skin. Associate fashion and commerce editor Lily Wohlner found that one treatment lasts a month, so you get a bang for your buck.
It has 250-plus movements per second to smooth the skin seconds. Wohlner likes that it comes in three vibration settings, and she used the lowest speed during my first few treatments to avoid nicks and scratches. While each treatment lasts a month, she likes to incorporate this device into her skincare routine once a week to keep her face consistently smooth and clear.
Key Specs
Type | Electric |
---|---|
Replacement Blades | 6 |
Blade Material | N/A |
Safety Features | Patented safety tip, three speed settings |
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Pros
Has a weighted round handle, making it easy to hold
Handle is also reusable
Cons
It's a final sale item that has relatively limited stock,
Versed is Dr. Shirazi's no-fail recommendation, and it's popular among WH readers. Sadly, Versed is discontinuing this beloved tool, but they still have some in stock that you can buy immediately. Need two more reasons to shop right now? They're discounted by $6 when you order directly from Versed. Only seven are available on Amazon, so once they're gone, they're gone forever.
So what makes them so great? While it can be tricky to dermaplane yourself, Dr. Shirazi credits the weighted round handle with providing ample control during each sesh. Despite the relatively affordable cost, it's made with high-quality materials, including the single edge, stainless steel blades that give the closest exfoliation treatment possible, she says.
No wonder it's also a fan-favorite pick among Amazon reviewers. With a 4.1-star average from nearly 70 reviewers, Versed earned major snaps for being gentle on sensitive skin without compromising on a close shave. Versed removes peach-fuzz and dead skin cells just as well as pricier alternatives that cost four times as much.
Another perk? Each replacement blade lasts three or four uses, so you're really getting a bang for your buck with this one. Versed recommends using the device every one to three weeks but avoid combining it with other exfoliation methods like scrubs and peels. When you're done, top your skin off with a hydrating serum, like my go-to PCA Skin Hyaluronic Acid Boosting Serum.
Type | Manual |
---|---|
Replacement Blades | 0, but you can buy then separately |
Safety Features | Weighted handle for better control |
Meet The Experts
- Azadeh Shirazi, MD, board-certified dermatologist at La Jolla Derm
- Brendan Camp, MD, board-certified dermatologist at MCDS Dermatology
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Meet The Experts
- Azadeh Shirazi, MD, board-certified dermatologist at La Jolla Derm
- Brendan Camp, MD, board-certified dermatologist at MCDS Dermatology
- Rachel Lozina, licensed esthetician and founder of Blue Water Spa
How do I prepare my face for dermaplaning?
The number one no-no when it comes to dermaplaning: Don't over-exfoliate. "If you are on retinoids or exfoliants like glycolic or salicylic acid, you need to stop them a week before," says Dr. Shirazi.
She also warns against dermaplaning if you have active wounds or skin conditions such as eczema, as your skin needs to heal fully before dermaplaning.
Dr. Shirazi recommends thorough cleansing of both the skin and hands before using the tool. Additionally, she advises avoiding direct sun exposure afterward and refraining from using makeup, retinols, or exfoliants in your skincare routine for the next 24 hours. To round it off, she suggests applying a nourishing moisturizer immediately after the treatment.
What's the correct form for using dermaplaning tools?
If you don't know how to use an at-home dermaplaning device, follow these simple steps: Place the device at a 90-degree angle on the skin, starting at the top of the cheekbone near the hairline. Hold the skin taut as you gently glide the tool towards your nose. Continue until you have covered the entire cheek and jaw area. Repeat these steps across the forehead, lip, and chin.
How often can I use a dermaplaning tool?
Dermaplaning can be performed once every four to eight weeks, according to Dr. Shirazi. However, some brands recommend using their specific tools more often. Make sure to read the label on your device or consult your dermatologist if you're unsure how often to use your tool.
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Is dermaplaning safe to do at home?
Doing treatments at home (versus in-office) and the results they bring are slightly trickier to predict and come with more risks, especially the chance of infections, scarring, or skin damage, cautions Dr. Shirzai. Her advice is to take it slow and try it only if you're comfortable. It's important to thoroughly cleanse the area you'll be treating, clean your hands, sanitize the tools, and tidy up the space, she says. "Be informed about dermaplaning—the more you know, the better you can assess the risks."
Keep in mind that dermaplaning might not suit those with sensitive or acne-prone skin. "You need a strong skin barrier to tolerate the treatment, so if you have dry skin or flaking red skin it’s best to let the skin heal before dermaplaning," she says. "It can also worsen certain skin conditions like acne, psoriasis, eczema, and hives."
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Nicole Saunders
Beauty Editor
Nicole Saunders is the beauty editor at Best Products with over eight years of experience researching, writing, and editing lifestyle content. She specializes in breaking down complicated topics, like high-frequency wands and microcurrent devices, into easy-to-understand guides. Saunders takes great pride in heavily researching and testing featured beauty products, — such as hairdryers and foundations — on our site, and spotlights her all-time seasonal favorites in her quarterly column Best New Beauty. And she tests quite literally thousands of launches for our Best New Beauty Awards package. You can follow her on Instagram to stay in the loop on her product testing adventures.
Expert consulted:Dr. Brendan Camp
Dermatologist
Brendan Camp, MD, is a double board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology in New York City. He was previously an assistant professor of dermatology at George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences.
Expert consulted:Dr. Azadeh Shirazi
Dr. Shirazi is a board-certified dermatologist who specializes in medical, surgical and cosmetic dermatology.