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Upgrade Your Routine With These Expert-Approved Dermaplaning Picks
Spoiler alert: your hair won’t grow back thicker.
I have a weekly skin care ritual that I’ve been doing for years. Every Sunday, I wash my face with my favorite cleanser, pat it dry, and go in with a dermaplaning tool to slough off peach fuzz and dead skin cells. Not only does this leave my face brighter, but it makes my makeup look more even, since it has a smoother base to adhere to.
To be clear, peach fuzz isn’t a bad thing—the wispy hairs on your face actually help protect your skin. But if you want a smoother base for makeup and fuzz-free skin, dermaplaning is a great option. “Dermaplaning removes dead skin cells and vellus hairs from the face with a blade—it’s a form of mechanical exfoliation,” says dermatologist Dr. Karan Lal.
Exfoliating your face means that your skin is smoother overall, which is why it helps your makeup look better. But this exfoliation doesn’t just help with makeup application—it also helps your skin absorb skin care better. The removal of dead skin cells also allows better absorption of skin care products,” says Dr. Connie Yang, a board-certified dermatologist and medical advisor for Dermstore.
If you want to try dermaplaning, it’s important that you do it safely, according to Yang. Go slowly and in short strokes, and make sure to avoid broken skin or blemishes. To avoid irritation, go with the grain rather than against it. And make sure you’re using a sharp and surgical grade dermaplaning tool. We spoke with experts and tested them ourselves to find the best dermaplaning tools on the market—keep reading for our top picks.
Pros
- All-in-one kit
Cons
- Can have a learning curve
The Dermaflash Luxe+ tool is considered one of the most effective and easy-to-use dermaplaning tools on the market. The kit comes with prepping oil, several blade changes, and a charger for the cordless device.
Blade material: Stainless steel
Includes: Dermaflash Luxe+, USB charging cable, charging case, four single-use blades, PREFLASH Essential Skin Prep
Amazon rating: 4.1/5 stars
Our expert says: “It’s easy to use, and its sonic wave technology allows for closer hair removal and better exfoliation than a standard blade that you buy at the drugstore.”—Dr. Connie Yang
Pros
- Only need to replace the blades
Cons
- May not be suitable for very sensitive skin
If you like the feel of using a simple facial razor but would prefer not to throw out the entire device after every use, try this option from StackedSkincare. It’s the same familiar shape you love, but you can purchase additional blades instead of tossing out the whole tool.
Blade material: Surgical steel
Includes: Handle, one razor head
Amazon rating: 4.5/5 stars
An ELLE editor says: “I’ve tried many dermaplaning tools, but I always go back to this one. It’s super sharp so you only need one pass, is easy to use, long-lasting, and non-irritating.”—Katie Berohn, ELLE beauty editor
Pros
- Well-made
Cons
- Can some time to get used to
This tool is the Porsche of dermaplaning devices. While it is an investment, it will last forever and comes with a host of additional blades, so you won’t need to head back to the store to stock up on more for weeks, if not months.
Blade material: Surgical steel
Includes: Sonicsmooth device, charging dock, USB charging cord, eight single-use safety tips
Ulta rating: 4.5/5 stars
An Ulta reviewer says: “I am so happy that I took my esthetician’s advice and purchased this product. It works amazingly at removing peach fuzz and exfoliating the dead skin from my face. It makes my face feel so smooth. After using the product, I feel my skin care absorbs better and my makeup goes on flawlessly. Highly recommend this product.”
Pros
- Sustainable option
Cons
- May not be suitable for very sensitive skin
Because dermaplaning tools are used on sensitive skin, it’s imperative that we dispose of and replace their blades frequently. While that leads to a lot of waste over time, Leaf’s sharp and highly-rated dermaplaner seeks to change that. The blades and blade guards are made with recyclable steel, with no disposable plastic in sight.
Blade material: Stainless steel
Includes: Handle, stand, 12 blades, 12 blade guards, one precision clip
Leaf rating: 4.8/5 stars
A Leaf reviewer says: “I’ve been using the cheap, disposable, razors you can find anywhere, and I can tell I’m not getting a close enough shave because [it needs] to be done weekly. I got my dermaplaner today and immediately used it. I am floored. I dermaplaned six days ago, and I was stunned how much fuzz my Leaf dermaplaner got off. Instructions were simple. The weight of the tool makes it easy to be steady handed. I’m very happy with the purchase.”
Pros
- Sturdy and weighty in the hand
Cons
- Can have a bit of a learning curve
If you already trust Flamingo to rid the rest of your body’s unwanted hair, you’ll know that the brand’s razors are trustworthy and get the job done. With its no-slip composition, the metal handle will last for years—just be sure to replace the blades to keep unwanted germs at bay.
Blade material: Stainless steel
Includes: Handle, two blades
Flamingo rating: 4.7/5 stars
An ELLE editor says: “I like this dermaplane tool because it is virtually mess-up proof. I find it so easy to use, thanks to its no slip handle.”—Katie Berohn
Pros
- Great for travel
Cons
- Hair can grow back quickly
When you’re traveling and don’t want to carry around blades or a device with ten parts, this hair removal tool is here for you. Not only is it compact and easy to pack, but it also comes with a light that makes it a breeze to spot fair hairs.
Shaver material: Not listed
Includes: Electric shaver, charger, cleaning brush
Amazon rating: 4.5/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “This little razor works well. A good purchase!”
Pros
- Only need to replace the blades
Cons
- Prone to rust if not taken care of properly
We’ve loved Tweezerman’s hair-removing tools for decades, and its dermaplaning tool is just as commendable. Each of the effective stainless steel blades can be used for up to three months, but be sure to sanitize with alcohol and keep the razor in a dry place to prevent rusting.
Blade material: Stainless steel
Includes: Handle, storage cap, three blades
Amazon rating: 4.6/5 stars
An ELLE editor says: “If you want a luxe facial razor, this one from Tweezerman feels expensive. It has a nice weight to it and is entirely stainless steel, so it looks sleek and is able to get every single hair.”—Katie Berohn
Pros
- Easy to change speeds
Cons
- Takes a long time to charge
When whisking a sharp blade around your face, feeling in control is important. Unlike some electric dermaplaning tools, this one allows you to customize the speed so that you can always feel safe.
Blade material: Stainless steel
Includes: Sima tool, seven single-use blades, charger
Amazon rating: 4.1/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “I was nervous about shaving my face and the potential repercussions, but let me tell you, it’s so worth it. My face has never felt more alive and smoother. Absolutely recommend!”
Pros
- Refillable
Cons
- Blades need to be replaced frequently
You’ll be one step closer to glowy, glass-like skin after using this razor, which lifts peach fuzz and dead skin with ease. The tool possesses a guard that goes over the blade, which lowers the chances of cutting your skin, even as you go over trickier ridges and contours of your face.
Blade material: Steel
Includes: Handle, two blades
Amazon rating: 4.4/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “This [is] by far the best dermaplaning tool I’ve ever used. I incorporate it into my weekly skin care routine, and the results are so far so good! It has left my face feeling soft and looking great. Overall, I highly recommend this tool for anyone looking to exfoliate or shave their face.”
Pros
- Suitable for sensitive skin
Cons
- Needs to be used with care
If you’re a complete dermaplaning newbie, you’ll appreciate this kit from Billie, which includes a thorough step-by-step guide. The slip-free handle also makes the whole process easier, preventing accidental nicks or scratches.
Blade material: Stainless steel
Includes: Handle, three blades
Amazon rating: 4.5/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “I have VERY sensitive pale skin. If you hold it at a 45 degree angle (this should feel natural) and do light small strokes on taut skin (hold your skin flat!), then you won’t have an issue. My skin is smooth and hairless, and I did my eyebrows too! Easy peasy.”
Pros
- Easy to use
Cons
- Single use only
For just under $10, you can get a pack of 10 facial razors with sharp blades. They’re easy to use and gentle enough not to nick your skin. Also, the blades can fold down when you’re not using them, which not only protects them, but also means you won’t have to worry about your kid picking them up accidentally.
Blade material: Stainless steel
Includes: 9 razors
Amazon rating: 4.4/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “Ok, I was definitely little miss skeptic! I thought, whatever, just try it. The razors were super easy to use! Also, I’m allergic to everything, but not this at all. The results: I look 20 years younger! Even my husband said the same thing. Great product!”
Pros
- Easy to use
Cons
- Needs to be used with care
Although primarily made to prune unruly eyebrow hairs, these tools come in handy for dermaplaning, too. The sharp, no-frills razors are ideal for trips out of town when you might want to dispose of them after one or two uses.
Blade material: Stainless steel
Includes: Six razors
Amazon rating: 4.6/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “I use them primarily to scrape off the peach fuzz that grows near my hairline and to get rid of overgrown eyebrow hairs. Though not a necessary item to have, I have seen a HUGE difference in the application of my makeup and feel of my skin. Removing the peach fuzz makes my skin so smooth. My skin care and makeup apply easier and look better.”
Who is a good candidate for dermaplaning?
Anyone can try dermaplaning. “Dermaplaning is great for people of all ages,” says Dr. Lal. “Post-menopausal women benefit the most due to an increase in facial hair after menopause.”
In addition to removing unwanted hair, because dermaplaning reduces uneven skin texture, it’s also ideal for people looking for smoother skin. “For someone who is experiencing roughness or dullness, dermaplaning is a great option, as it may help to gently exfoliate the skin,” adds Dr. Garshick. “It can also be helpful for someone who is dealing with peach fuzz or vellus hairs.”
Who should avoid dermaplaning?
“In general, dermaplaning can be done on all skin types,” says Dr. Garshick. “However, it is important to avoid if you are experiencing an active flare of acne or rosacea. In some individuals, it may cause additional breakouts or potential irritation, especially among those with sensitive skin.”
Is it safe for people to dermaplane at home?
“Dermaplaning is actually harder than it looks,” says Dr. Lal. “While it looks and sounds okay, it is very easy to cut yourself or get breakouts, so it is probably best to see a professional esthetician.” If you do decide to dermaplane at home, take precautions. “While it is safe to use at home, and there are various at-home devices, it is important to use caution to minimize injury to the skin,” adds Dr. Garshick.
How should people use dermaplaning devices at home?
“If you are going to dermaplane at home, first and foremost clean your face with an antibacterial cleanser like benzoyl peroxide,” says Dr. Lal. “Then, use a new blade. Hold your skin taut from above and gently sweep downwards in short, intentional strokes. Avoid dermaplaning the nose–you will cut yourself. Afterward, apply a moisturizer and continue to use an antibacterial cleanser for a few days to reduce breakouts or pus bumps.”
Meet the Experts
Dr. Karan Lal is a board-certified dermatologist based in Scottsdale, Arizona.
Dr. Marisa Garshick is a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City.
Dr. Connie Yang is a board-certified dermatologist and medical advisor for Dermstore.
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Why Trust ELLE Beauty
As a leading publisher of fashion, lifestyle, and beauty content, ELLE.com is committed to highlighting the best products in various categories by personally testing the latest and most innovative products, interviewing countless experts, and vetting customer-loved items. For this piece, Tatjana Freund and Carol Lee spoke with experts and industry leaders about dermaplaning tools. Freund and Lee also tested a few top-rated products and pored over reviews for dozens of others, evaluating each on their features and customer feedback.
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