Touching your skin after dermaplaning can cause issues like redness, irritation, and even infections. This is because the procedure removes the skin's protective barrier, leaving it more sensitive and exposed. Proper aftercare, especially avoiding skin contact for 24–48 hours, is critical for healing and achieving the best results.
Key takeaways:
- Increased Sensitivity: Touching can worsen redness and tenderness.
- Infection Risks: Bacteria from hands may lead to breakouts or minor infections.
- Delayed Healing: Frequent contact can slow recovery and, in rare cases, cause scarring.
For optimal recovery:
- Avoid touching or rubbing the skin.
- Use gentle, fragrance-free cleansers and hydrating products like hyaluronic acid serums.
- Apply SPF 30+ sunscreen daily, even in cloudy or snowy weather.
Canadian skincare professionals recommend tailored aftercare for local climate conditions and stress the importance of educating clients on no-contact protocols for the first 48 hours.
✨ Post-Treatment Aftercare for Dermaplaning Clients ✨
Research Results: How Touching Affects Skin After Dermaplaning
Studies reveal that touching your skin after dermaplaning can lead to complications and interfere with the healing process. Here's a closer look at how post-treatment contact can negatively impact your skin.
Increased Sensitivity and Redness
Dermaplaning removes the outer protective layer of skin, often causing redness and heightened sensitivity. According to the Cleveland Clinic, many individuals notice immediate tenderness and redness after the procedure, which worsens with physical contact. Proper aftercare can reduce these symptoms within 24 hours, but touching the skin may prolong redness and irritation by exposing it to environmental irritants.
Contamination and Infection Risks
Touching your skin post-dermaplaning increases the chance of introducing bacteria, especially since the skin's natural barrier has been temporarily removed. Unwashed hands or even light rubbing can transfer microbes, raising the risk of irritation, breakouts, or minor infections. Experts stress the importance of avoiding contact during the first 24–48 hours after the procedure when the skin is most vulnerable. Signs of infection - like drainage, excessive warmth, fever, or severe itching - are more common in individuals who touch or rub their skin during recovery.
Delayed Healing and Potential Scarring
Frequent touching can interfere with the healing process, prolong redness, and even lead to minor scarring. Poor aftercare, including unnecessary contact, has been linked to complications such as hyperpigmentation or superficial scars, particularly in those with a history of slow wound healing. Research suggests that minor issues like irritation or small breakouts occur in 10–15% of dermaplaning cases, though infection and scarring are rare when aftercare guidelines are followed.
Certain groups face higher risks if they touch their skin post-treatment. These include individuals with sensitive skin, eczema, dermatitis, compromised immune systems, or a tendency to scar easily. Warning signs of improper aftercare often include prolonged redness, swelling, increased sensitivity, small pustules or papules, and delayed recovery. When these symptoms persist longer than expected, it’s a strong indication that aftercare recommendations weren’t followed.
Best Practices: Post-Treatment Guidelines for Skincare Professionals
Establishing clear aftercare instructions is key to promoting proper healing and ensuring clients are happy with their results. These guidelines offer a practical approach to educating clients about caring for their skin post-dermaplaning.
No Touching or Rubbing for 24–48 Hours
The first 24–48 hours after dermaplaning are crucial for recovery. During this time, the skin barrier is more vulnerable, making it essential to avoid touching or rubbing the treated area. Even light contact can introduce bacteria, which may slow down the healing process or cause irritation.
Clients should minimize any contact with their face. To help with this, suggest keeping their hands busy and being mindful of habits like face-touching. Simple tips, such as trimming nails and washing hands more often, can make a difference.
Advise against using washcloths, facial brushes, or towels on the skin. Instead, clients should cleanse their face using only their hands with gentle, patting motions. Avoid vigorous rubbing to protect the delicate skin. These steps prepare the skin for the next stage: selecting the right aftercare products.
Recommended Aftercare Products
The foundation of post-dermaplaning care is a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser. Non-foaming cleansers work best as they maintain the skin’s natural oils. For at least 48 hours, clients should avoid products with exfoliating beads, acids, or heavy fragrances.
Hydration is also critical. Suggest applying a hydrating hyaluronic acid serum twice daily for the first three days to keep the skin moisturized.
Sunscreen is non-negotiable. A broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher is vital to protect the skin, which becomes more sensitive to sunlight after dermaplaning. In Canada, it’s important to choose sunscreens that meet Health Canada’s standards and are available in metric sizes. Remind clients to apply sunscreen every morning and reapply every two hours when outdoors.
For added convenience, you might recommend professional-grade aftercare kits, such as those from Dermaplaning Supplies Canada. These kits are designed specifically for sensitive, post-dermaplaning skin and include gentle cleansers, hydrating serums, and sunscreens tailored to Canadian standards and climate.
Protecting Skin in Canadian Weather
Canada’s climate can be tough on freshly treated skin, so additional precautions are necessary. During cold, dry winters, richer moisturizers can help combat dryness. Encourage clients to use soft scarves or other physical barriers to shield their skin from wind and cold, especially within the first 48 hours after treatment.
Sun protection is a year-round priority. UV rays can still harm newly exfoliated skin on cloudy or snowy days, as snow reflects sunlight. Daily sunscreen application is essential, regardless of the season, to guard against UV damage.
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Risk Comparison: Touching vs. No Contact After Dermaplaning
Understanding the risks and benefits of post-dermaplaning care is essential for skincare professionals aiming to guide their clients toward the best recovery practices. Comparing the outcomes of touching the treated skin versus adhering to a strict no-contact protocol highlights key differences in healing and overall results.
Risk Assessment Table
Here's a detailed comparison of the risks and benefits associated with post-dermaplaning care:
| Risk/Benefit Factor | Touching/Rubbing Post-Dermaplaning | No Contact Post-Dermaplaning |
|---|---|---|
| Redness/Irritation | High risk, often prolonged | Mild, resolves quickly |
| Infection/Contamination | Increased risk (bacteria transfer) | Minimal risk |
| Recovery Time | Delayed healing process | Faster, more efficient recovery |
| Scarring Potential | Possible with repeated contact | Very rare occurrence |
| Product Absorption | May be compromised by irritation | Enhanced absorption rates |
| Environmental Sensitivity | Worsened reactions | Managed with proper care |
| Client Satisfaction | Lower due to complications | Higher overall satisfaction |
| Professional Liability | Increased risk of adverse events | Reduced liability concerns |
This comparison underscores the importance of avoiding skin contact after dermaplaning, as it significantly reduces risks and promotes faster recovery.
Dermatologists have observed that clients who avoid touching their skin post-treatment experience fewer complications compared to those who do not follow aftercare guidelines. During the critical 24–48 hours following the procedure, even minimal contact can introduce bacteria and slow the healing process. For this reason, a strict no-contact protocol is essential for achieving the best results.
Skincare professionals who emphasize no-contact education report better client outcomes and fewer follow-up appointments for complications. By adopting this approach, practitioners not only improve recovery conditions but also reduce potential liability concerns.
The evidence positions the no-contact method as the gold standard for post-dermaplaning care, ensuring safer healing and more satisfying results for clients.
Professional Resources for Canadian Skincare Practitioners
Research highlights the importance of no-contact recovery after dermaplaning, emphasizing the need for proper tools, training, and aftercare products. For Canadian skincare professionals, having access to dependable resources is essential to follow these evidence-based practices while adhering to local regulations. Below are some key resources that help professionals implement these guidelines effectively.
Dermaplaning Supplies Canada: Tools and Training

Dermaplaning Supplies Canada is a trusted wholesale distributor offering a range of products and training tailored to current research. Their certified dermaplaning blades (#10, #10R, #14) meet medical-grade standards, reducing the risk of infections.
For practitioners new to dermaplaning, their Professional Dermaplaning Treatment Starter Kits provide a convenient all-in-one solution. These kits, priced between $75–$250 CAD, include essential tools and, in some cases, certification, making it easier to implement no-contact protocols.
To address knowledge gaps that could lead to complications, the company offers an Online Dermaplaning Training Certification Course. This course, priced at $150–$400 CAD, focuses on safe techniques, sanitation practices, and the importance of no-contact aftercare. The curriculum is designed with Canadian standards in mind, equipping practitioners to educate clients about avoiding skin contact during the critical 24–48 hour recovery window.
Additionally, Dermaplaning Supplies Canada provides marketing materials to help practitioners effectively communicate aftercare instructions. These resources are crucial for explaining the risks of touching treated skin and reinforcing the no-contact protocol.
Aftercare Products for Better Recovery
Using professional-grade aftercare products can significantly improve healing during the no-contact period. Dermaplaning Supplies Canada offers a range of recovery products designed to address the increased sensitivity observed after treatment.
Their Professional Jelly Masks, such as the Roselisa Citrus Vitality Vitamin C Jelly Mask Powder, deliver soothing hydration without requiring manual application, which could disrupt healing. For the delicate under-eye area, SkinHealthMD Collagen Under Eye Masks, starting at $4.99 CAD, provide targeted care while minimizing the risk of accidental contact.
Hydrate + Repair Facial Sheet Masks, enriched with hyaluronic acid and antioxidants, offer intensive hydration and support the skin barrier during recovery. These masks are especially effective in adapting to Canada's diverse climate, from the dry winters of the Prairies to the humid summers on the coasts.
For additional care, the BPS Pro Series Firming Facial Toner delivers essential nutrients without requiring manual application. This aligns with research showing that minimal manipulation of the skin promotes faster healing and reduces the likelihood of complications.
Canadian practitioners have noted higher client satisfaction when recommending these professional-grade products compared to over-the-counter options. The formulations are specifically designed to address common post-dermaplaning issues like redness, dryness, and sensitivity while supporting the skin's natural healing process during the no-contact period.
Conclusion: Key Points for Skincare Professionals
Why Post-Treatment Care Matters
Research highlights that improper post-dermaplaning care can lead to increased bacterial exposure, prolonged redness, and delayed healing. For example, frequent touching of the treated area can not only extend recovery time but also cause breakouts and irritation. In some cases, this may even require additional treatments to address complications.
On the other hand, proper aftercare - like keeping the skin hydrated and using SPF 30+ daily for at least two weeks - plays a critical role in preventing these issues. With enhanced skin sensitivity post-treatment, these steps are essential to maximize the benefits of dermaplaning while minimizing risks. The findings emphasize the importance of professional guidance and training to ensure clients follow these protocols effectively.
Resources for Professional Support
Canadian skincare professionals have access to tools and training designed to promote safe and effective dermaplaning practices. For instance, Dermaplaning Supplies Canada's Online Dermaplaning Training Certification Course focuses on teaching no-contact protocols and educating clients about proper aftercare. This course equips practitioners with the knowledge to explain the science behind these guidelines while offering practical tips for client communication.
Additionally, the company's Professional Dermaplaning Treatment Starter Kits include medical-grade tools that help reduce the risk of infection. Paired with high-quality aftercare products like their Professional Jelly Masks, these kits provide a complete solution to support the skin's healing process and enhance treatment results.
"A proud supplier of Canadian Estheticians, Aestheticians, Dermatologists, Beauty Therapists, Cosmetologists, Skin Care Clinics, Salons, and Spas. With skincare professionals in every corner across Canada, we are the trusted industry supplier of quality Dermaplaning products, treatment starter kits, tools/supplies, marketing material and training."
FAQs
Why should you avoid touching your skin for 24–48 hours after dermaplaning?
After dermaplaning, your skin becomes more delicate and prone to irritation or infection. Touching or rubbing your face during this time can transfer dirt, oils, and bacteria from your hands to your freshly treated skin, which might lead to clogged pores or breakouts.
To help your skin heal and stay healthy, avoid touching your face for at least 24–48 hours after the treatment. Instead, stick to a gentle skincare routine using soothing, hydrating products to keep your skin calm and well-nourished.
What are the best aftercare products to use for healthy skin recovery after dermaplaning?
After dermaplaning, your skin deserves some extra care to keep it looking smooth and glowing while aiding its recovery. The focus should be on gentle, hydrating products that calm and protect your skin.
Here are some post-treatment essentials:
- Hydrating serums: Look for ones with hyaluronic acid to restore moisture and keep your skin plump.
- Fragrance-free moisturizers: These help seal in hydration and maintain a healthy skin barrier.
- Broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher): Since your skin is more sensitive after dermaplaning, sunscreen is a must to guard against UV damage.
Steer clear of harsh exfoliants, retinoids, or active treatments for at least 48 hours, as these can irritate freshly treated skin. For the best results, consult your skincare professional for product recommendations tailored to your unique needs.
How should I adjust my dermaplaning aftercare routine for Canada’s climate?
Canada’s varying climate means your dermaplaning aftercare routine might need a few tweaks depending on the season. In the colder months, when the air becomes dry, your skin will benefit from deep hydration. Opt for a rich, fragrance-free moisturiser to keep your skin barrier healthy and protected. On the other hand, summer brings higher UV exposure, making broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) a must. This step is essential to protect your freshly exfoliated skin from sun damage.
No matter the time of year, it’s important to avoid touching or rubbing your face post-treatment. This helps minimise irritation and reduces the risk of transferring bacteria to your sensitive skin. For skincare professionals, investing in top-notch tools and products - readily available from Canadian suppliers - can ensure better results and happier clients.