Should women shave their faces?
For a long time, shaving wasn’t something women did on their faces—or if they did, wouldn’t dream of talking openly about it. Today, a technique using a slim razor called dermaplaning is the topic of conversation within women’s circles and has gone viral with everyone from dermatologists to beauty influencers posting their advice and experiences with it. If you’re eyeing the peach fuzz on your face, wondering if and how it should go away, here is some advice from Palmour Hewes, aesthetician at Alchemy Aesthetics at Plastic Surgery Centre of Atlanta in Sandy Springs.
The Benefits
“Removing vellus hair also removes dead skin to create a smoother complexion,” Hewes says. “It helps with product penetration since there isn’t any hair there to cover up the skin.” Alchemy Aesthetics believes in dermaplaning so much that it has added it to every facial on its menu. “It’s great to allow products to dig deep and get to work,” Hewes says.
Potential Cons
Facial hair has a purpose. It is there as a protective layer to shield the skin from environmental elements. “The possible downsides to dermaplaning are that the fresh skin underneath is more exposed to the sun and bacteria,” Hewes says. “It’s important to take good care of your skin after the treatment.” This includes applying sunscreen diligently.
Who Should Not Do It
Almost everyone, no matter age, gender or skin type, can be a candidate for dermaplaning, Hewes says. But avoid it if you have active acne, open wounds, a skin condition like psoriasis or eczema, a recent sunburn or “anything that would make your skin sensitive since you are taking an open blade to it.”
Frequently Asked Question
Women typically have one main concern about shaving their faces: Will it cause facial hair to stubble or grow in thicker? Nope, it’s not possible, Hewes says. “This is because it’s vellus hair, a different kind than grows on eyebrows, underarms and legs, and on the bottom half of men’s faces, which is terminal hair.” Shaving cuts the hair off at the surface and the follicle remains unchanged so it will grow back as it did previously.
Professional vs. DIY
An aesthetician is going to use a medical-grade scalpel and is trained not to nick you. If you want to do it yourself at home, first wash and dry your face. Then, using a fresh dermaplaning blade each time, position it at a 45-degree angle and shave in the direction of the hair growth with short movements. (Review some YouTube videos for the proper technique.)
After Care
Afterwards, Hewes suggests applying a moisturizer that will protect and hydrate your skin. If you’re going outside, apply sunscreen. Lastly, avoid exfoliating or using products that contain retinols and salicylic acid for a day or two. “I love dermaplaning. It makes makeup look wonderful. It’s great to do before wearing makeup to an event,” Hewes says.
ALCHEMY AESTHETICS AT PLASTIC SURGERY CENTRE OF ATLANTA
404.257.9888
pscatlanta.com
@alchemy_aesthetics
