Should I Wash My Face Before Or After Dermaplaning?

When It Makes Sense

• Good fit: You are having a professional dermaplaning session and the esthetician recommends a gentle cleanser beforehand to remove makeup, excess oil, and debris, creating a smooth surface for the blade.
• Good fit: You perform dermaplaning at home and have sensitive skin; washing with a mild, fragrance‑free cleanser after the procedure helps soothe any irritation and removes residual dead cells.

When You Should Avoid It

• Warning sign: Your skin is currently inflamed, broken, or you have active acne lesions. Cleansing too vigorously before dermaplaning can increase abrasion and risk infection.
• Warning sign: You are using a harsh, alcohol‑based cleanser or exfoliant. Applying these either before or immediately after dermaplaning can cause excessive dryness, redness, or chemical burns.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Washing before dermaplaning removes makeup and surface oils, allowing the blade to glide more evenly and reducing the chance of pulling at hair.
• Cleaning after dermaplaning helps eliminate any stray skin particles, reduces the likelihood of bacterial colonisation, and can be followed by a calming serum or moisturizer.

Cons

• Cleansing immediately before dermaplaning with hot water or an astringent can strip natural oils, making the skin more fragile and increasing sensitivity to the blade.
• Washing right after dermaplaning with a vigorous scrub or harsh cleanser may irritate the freshly exposed epidermis, leading to redness, stinging, or prolonged healing.

Decision Checklist

• Is my skin currently calm, without active breakouts or lesions?
• Am I using a gentle, pH‑balanced cleanser that won’t strip the skin’s barrier?
• Do I have a clear post‑procedure skincare routine (e.g., soothing serum, SPF) ready to apply after washing?

Alternatives to Consider

If you’re unsure about washing at either time, you can opt for a light misting with a hydrating toner or micellar water before dermaplaning, and then follow the treatment with a fragrance‑free moisturizer. Another low‑risk choice is to wait 15‑20 minutes after cleansing before starting the procedure, allowing the skin’s natural pH to stabilise.

Final Recommendation

For most people, a gentle cleanse **before** dermaplaning—using lukewarm water and a mild, fragrance‑free cleanser—creates an optimal canvas for the blade. Follow the session with a soothing, non‑comedogenic moisturizer and sunscreen. If your skin is sensitive, inflamed, or you’re using aggressive cleansers, postpone washing until after the procedure and keep post‑care simple. Always consult a licensed esthetician or dermatologist if you have underlying skin conditions or are uncertain about the best approach.