Okay, so you’re standing in front of the mirror and thinking… “What’s the best way to eliminate this peach fuzz?” Or maybe it’s more about getting smoother skin for makeup or tackling pesky dead skin cells. Either way, the two big contenders are dermaplaning and waxing. But—and this is important—they’re not interchangeable. Let’s break it all down.
What Is Dermaplaning?
Dermaplaning is like the ultimate skin refresh. It involves a professional using a sterile surgical blade (sounds scary, but trust me, it’s not) to gently exfoliate your skin. It removes dead skin cells and those tiny, fine hairs (the ones you swear only show up in harsh sunlight).
Key Benefits
- Exfoliation Superstar: It clears dead skin cells away, leaving your face smooth and bright.
- Better Product Absorption: Your skincare products work harder because there’s no barrier of dead skin in the way.
- Makeup Perfection: The foundation goes on like a dream. No more clinging to dry patches.
Who’s It For?
Dermaplaning is perfect if you have:
- Dry skin
- Dull complexion
- Fine facial hair (vellus hair)
But… it’s not great if you’re dealing with active acne or very sensitive skin.
What Is Waxing?
Waxing is the OG of hair removal. Hot or cold wax is applied to the skin, trapping the hair, and then… rip! The root pulls the hair (and sometimes a bit of your soul) out. It’s fast, effective, and—let’s be real—not for the faint-hearted.
Key Benefits
- Longer-Lasting Results: Hair is removed from the root, so it takes weeks to grow back.
- Great for Coarser Hair: Waxing is excellent for thicker, darker hair that dermaplaning might miss.
- Quick Process: You can get larger areas done in one go.
Who’s It For?
Waxing works best if you:
- Have coarse or dark hair
- Want to target areas like your upper lip or brows
- Are okay with a little pain (okay, maybe more than a little)
Dermaplaning vs. Waxing: The Head-to-Head Comparison
Pain Factor
- Dermaplaning: Zero pain. Seriously. It’s like a gentle scrape—weirdly soothing.
- Waxing: Let’s just say you’ll know you’re alive. The first pull is the worst; it gets better (kind of).
Results
- Dermaplaning: Smoother skin, better glow, and no hair (vellus hair, specifically).
- Waxing: Hair-free for weeks, but no exfoliation perks.
Downtime
- Dermaplaning: None. You’re glowing and good to go.
- Waxing: You might have redness or bumps for a day or two, especially in sensitive areas.
Cost
- Dermaplaning: Typically costs more since it’s a professional treatment.
- Waxing: More budget-friendly, but it adds up over time.
Personal Experience: My Take on Both
Okay, so I’ve tried both. Dermaplaning felt like an instant confidence boost—my skin was glowing, and my makeup looked flawless. But waxing? That’s a different story. It’s efficient, sure, but ouch. Let’s just say I’m glad I didn’t have to go anywhere afterwards.
If I had to pick, dermaplaning wins for me—mostly because I’m all about that no-pain glow. But waxing might be your go-to if you’re looking for long-lasting hair removal.
FAQs About Dermaplaning vs. Waxing
Is Dermaplaning Better for Sensitive Skin?
Yes! Dermaplaning is gentler and doesn’t involve pulling or tugging at the skin.
Can I Wax After Dermaplaning?
Nope. Your skin will be too sensitive—let it recover first.
How Often Should I Dermaplane or Wax?
- Dermaplaning: Every 4-6 weeks.
- Waxing: Every 3-4 weeks, depending on hair growth.
Does Dermaplaning Cause Hair to Grow Back Thicker?
Nope! That’s a myth. Hair grows back the same—soft and fine.
Which One Should You Choose?
Honestly? It depends on your skin type and what you’re looking to achieve. If glowing skin and better product absorption are your goals, dermaplaning is your BFF. But if you want longer-lasting hair removal and don’t mind a bit of pain, waxing gets the job done.
Call to Action: Glow Up with Kind Laser Skin and Wellness
Ready to choose between dermaplaning or waxing? At Kind Laser Skin and Wellness in Ann Arbor, MI, we’re here to help you find the perfect solution for your skin type. Book your consultation today, and let’s get your glow on!