Dermaplaning in Colorado Springs is a simple treatment where a trained provider gently shaves the top layer of dead skin and peach fuzz from your face with a sterile blade so your skin looks smoother, makeup goes on better, and your complexion looks a bit brighter right away. That is the short, honest answer. No magic. No overnight miracle. Just a careful exfoliation treatment that, when done well, can make your skin feel cleaner, softer, and more even.
If you are curious about trying it locally, you might look into professional services like dermaplaning Colorado Springs so you get a feel for what is offered, what it costs, and how it fits with other facials or skincare options. I will talk through what really happens in a session, who it helps, who it does not help, and a few things that people do not always tell you at first.
What actually is dermaplaning?
Dermaplaning is a physical exfoliation method. A licensed provider uses a sterile, single use scalpel held at a slight angle to gently scrape along your skin. They remove two things at the same time:
- The outer layer of dead skin cells
- Fine vellus hair, often called peach fuzz
The blade does not cut into your skin. At least it should not if the provider has good skill and takes their time. It is more like a controlled, careful shaving of the surface.
You do not get new pores or new collagen in one session. What you get is a smoother surface that reflects light more evenly. So the skin looks brighter and makeup tends to sit better. Some people feel a big difference. Some feel a smaller one. That part is personal.
Dermaplaning focuses on surface texture, not deep structural change in the skin.
I think that detail matters, because once you understand it is surface level, you can set your expectations and avoid feeling disappointed.
Why people in Colorado Springs like dermaplaning
Colorado Springs has dry air, higher altitude, and strong sun. That is a rough combination for skin. The outer layer can build up, feel flaky, and still look dull, even if you use good products. So a lot of people like dermaplaning for a few reasons that make sense in this climate.
1. It smooths dry, flaky texture
If your face makeup sometimes clings to dry patches, dermaplaning can help. By removing that top layer of dry cells, your skin feels smoother. Foundation often glides on more evenly, and powder does not sit in little patches as much.
People often notice the biggest change in how makeup applies, more than in “pore size” or wrinkles.
2. It helps skin care soak in more evenly
When you remove the dead surface layer, your serums and moisturizers meet fresher skin. That does not turn a weak product into a strong one, but it can reduce that feeling where products just sit on top and do nothing.
Many providers pair dermaplaning with a facial or mask. The idea is simple: clean canvas first, then treatment. I used to think that sounded a bit like a sales trick, but after trying it once, I had to admit that my skin did feel softer for a few days longer than with a basic facial alone.
3. It gets rid of peach fuzz without waxing
People sometimes feel awkward about facial hair. Peach fuzz can catch the light, especially in bright Colorado sun or in photos. Dermaplaning removes that vellus hair in a controlled way, and there is no hot wax involved.
One common fear is that the hair will grow back darker or thicker. That is not how vellus hair works. It grows from the same follicles, with the same structure. When it grows in, the blunt tip from shaving can feel a bit different at first, but it does not turn into coarse beard hair. If that happened, providers would stop offering dermaplaning very quickly.
4. It is usually quick and low downtime
Most dermaplaning sessions take around 30 to 45 minutes. Sometimes longer if the provider combines it with a more involved facial. You might leave with a little redness, but most people feel comfortable going back to work or running errands the same day.
So for someone balancing work, kids, and regular life, it can be a practical way to refresh the skin without a long recovery. That said, it is still a treatment with a sharp blade near your face. It deserves respect and not a rushed, casual mindset.
What happens during a dermaplaning session
The exact steps vary from spa to spa, but the general flow is similar. Here is what you can usually expect in Colorado Springs clinics and studios.
Step 1: Consultation and skin check
The provider will ask about your skin history, products, and any recent treatments. This part matters more than some people think. If you recently used a strong retinol, had a peel, or spent a day in strong mountain sun without proper protection, your skin might be too sensitive.
If a provider skips questions and jumps straight to the blade, that is a small red flag.
They should check for active breakouts, open cuts, rash, or irritation. Dermaplaning is usually skipped on those areas.
Step 2: Cleansing and prep
Your skin is cleaned to remove makeup, sunscreen, and oil. Some places use a mild degreasing solution so the blade can glide more smoothly. You lie back on a treatment bed, usually under bright light so they can see the skin clearly.
Step 3: The actual dermaplaning
The provider holds your skin taut with one hand and gently moves the blade in short, light strokes with the other. It usually starts on one cheek, then the other, then the forehead, nose, chin, and jawline. They avoid eyelids and usually avoid the nose bridge if the skin is thin or sensitive.
The feeling is strange but generally not painful. Many people say it feels like a light scraping or soft scratching sound. Personally, I found it more odd than uncomfortable, and after a few minutes I forgot about it and just listened to the small scraping sound as they worked.
Step 4: Soothing products and sunscreen
After the dermaplaning, your skin is more exposed. Providers often apply:
- A soothing serum, sometimes with hyaluronic acid or calming ingredients
- A hydrating moisturizer
- Broad spectrum sunscreen, usually SPF 30 or higher
Some places add a mask, light massage, or other touches. That can be nice, but the core of dermaplaning is still the careful blade work.
Who is a good candidate for dermaplaning in Colorado Springs
This is where I think people sometimes oversell and say “everyone is a great candidate.” That is not quite right. Many people can enjoy it, but not all.
Good candidates
You may be a good match for dermaplaning if:
- Your main concern is dull, flaky, or uneven texture
- You want smoother makeup application
- You have fine vellus hair that bothers you in photos or bright light
- Your skin is normal, dry, or combination without many active breakouts
- You prefer a manual exfoliation rather than strong acids or machines
People with mild sun damage, early fine lines, and general dryness often like dermaplaning as part of their regular care. It does not remove deep wrinkles, but it can make everything look a bit more refined.
Who should pause or skip it
You might want to avoid or delay dermaplaning if:
- You have active cystic acne or inflamed breakouts
- You have open cuts, wounds, or skin infections
- You used strong retinoids or had a peel very recently
- You have uncontrolled rosacea or severe sensitivity
- You tend to form keloids or scars from minor injuries
In those cases, scraping the surface can irritate the skin more. For acne especially, spreading bacteria with the blade is a real concern. Some Colorado Springs clinics combine acne facials with other treatments, but many will avoid dermaplaning directly over active inflammatory lesions.
How dermaplaning compares to other exfoliation options
Sometimes you do not actually need a scalpel. You might get similar or better results with chemical exfoliants, microdermabrasion, or even a good at home skincare routine. It depends on what you want and how your skin behaves.
| Treatment | Main method | Best for | Downtime |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dermaplaning | Manual scraping of dead cells and peach fuzz | Smoother texture, hair removal, makeup prep | Little to none, mild redness possible |
| Chemical exfoliation | Acids dissolve bonds between dead cells | Texture, clogged pores, pigment over time | Varies from none to peeling for a few days |
| Microdermabrasion | Fine crystals or diamond tip polish the surface | Rough texture, mild scars, thicker skin | Mild redness, usually short term |
| At home scrubs / exfoliants | Manual or chemical, lower strength | Maintenance, gentle smoothing | Low, but risk of overuse |
Dermaplaning stands apart because it removes both dead skin and hair. Chemical peels will not shave your face, and at home razors usually are not paired with a full exfoliation routine. So each has its own place.
What results can you realistically expect
This is where hype often sneaks in. People promise glass skin, erased pores, and long term wrinkle reduction from a 40 minute appointment. That is not realistic.
Here is what you can honestly expect from a good dermaplaning treatment in Colorado Springs:
- Smoother feeling skin right away
- Less visible peach fuzz for a few weeks
- Makeup that glides on more evenly
- Slightly brighter complexion for some people
Here is what you should not rely on dermaplaning alone for:
- Major acne control
- Deep wrinkle reduction
- Permanent pore shrinkage
- Long term lifting or firming
I am not saying it has no deeper benefit at all. Any regular exfoliation can, over time, support better skin turnover. But if someone sells dermaplaning as a single solution for all skin issues, that is a sign to ask more questions.
How often should you get dermaplaning
Most providers recommend spacing treatments around 4 to 6 weeks apart. That gives the skin time to renew and hair time to grow back to a length where removal makes sense again.
Doing dermaplaning every week is usually too much. It can strip the barrier and make your face more reactive, especially with Colorado sun and dry air. On the other hand, doing it once a year might feel nice but is less likely to give any ongoing benefit.
A more realistic approach is to pair it with a monthly or seasonal skincare plan. For example:
- Dermaplaning before a special event, photo session, or holiday trip
- Seasonal sessions at the end of winter and summer to refresh the surface
- Regular sessions every 4 to 8 weeks if you like the feel and your skin tolerates it
I think it helps to watch how your skin behaves after the first two sessions and adjust the timing rather than following a fixed schedule that does not match your actual response.
Dermaplaning and Colorado Springs climate
Altitude and dryness affect how skin reacts. Strong UV exposure at higher elevation can also change how safe any exfoliation is. So if you live in Colorado Springs, it makes sense to tweak a few things.
Sun care is not optional after dermaplaning
After dermaplaning, the outer layer is thinner for a short time. That does not mean you must hide indoors, but you should take sun protection more seriously, especially in a place with strong UV.
- Use broad spectrum SPF 30 or higher every morning
- Reapply if you are outside for several hours
- Add a hat or shade when possible
If you already skip sunscreen often, dermaplaning might give you a short glow followed by more freckles or uneven tone. That tradeoff is not worth it in the long term.
Hydration and barrier support
Dry air can pull moisture from the skin. After removing dead cells, you want to protect the fresh layer with good hydration and a barrier friendly moisturizer.
A simple routine for the week after dermaplaning could look like this:
- Gentle cleanser, no scrubs or harsh washcloths
- Soothing serum or hydrating toner
- Moisturizer that does not sting
- Sunscreen in the morning
Skip strong acids, peels, and high strength retinoids for a few days unless your provider specifically says your skin can handle it. Many people in dry, high altitude areas do better with a lighter hand on actives around exfoliation days.
Professional dermaplaning vs DIY at home
You will see small facial razors and “dermaplaning” tools online. Some are fine for shaving peach fuzz at home. But they are not the same as a full professional treatment.
Key differences:
- Professionals use sterile, medical grade blades and strict hygiene
- They are trained to hold the skin, angle the blade, and avoid risky areas
- They adjust pressure and passes based on your skin type and history
- They can combine dermaplaning with other treatments safely
Can careful people shave their own face at home without problem? Yes, some do. But if you are already paying for other facials or if your skin is sensitive, it usually makes more sense to stay with a trained provider, at least for the main treatments. A small razor at home can be for touch ups, not full exfoliation.
Questions to ask before booking in Colorado Springs
Since you asked me to not agree blindly, I will say this directly: picking a provider based only on price is not a great idea. A cheap session in a careless setting can lead to nicks, irritation, or infection, which costs more in stress later.
Before you book, consider asking:
- Who performs the dermaplaning and what is their license or training?
- How often do they perform this treatment?
- What do they do differently for sensitive, acne prone, or mature skin?
- What products do they use before and after the blade work?
- How do they clean and dispose of blades and tools?
- What should you avoid in your skincare routine before and after?
If they give vague answers or rush through your questions, that is not a great sign. A thoughtful provider will take time to ask about your skin too, not just sell a package.
How dermaplaning fits into a full skincare plan
Dermaplaning is one tool, not the whole toolbox. It works best when it fits into a larger picture that might include daily care, sun protection, sometimes acne treatments, and other targeted services.
Pairing with facials and masks
Many people in Colorado Springs schedule dermaplaning along with hydrating or brightening facials. The logic is simple: clean off the outer layer, then apply serums and masks that might reach a bit deeper.
For dry or mature skin, hydrating facials after dermaplaning can feel especially nice. You walk out with smoother texture and a stronger moisture boost. Just be a bit cautious if you have sensitive skin, since combining too many steps can also give your skin too much to handle at once.
Pairing with acne focused care
If your main issue is acne, dermaplaning is not the first or strongest line of defense. Oil control, proper cleansing, ingredients like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, and consistent habits usually matter more.
That said, some people with mild, non inflamed congestion like dermaplaning because it helps with texture and lets products reach clogged areas more easily. The key is that any inflamed lesions are avoided entirely. A good provider will refuse to scrape across active acne, even if you insist, because that can spread bacteria and make things worse.
Daily routine support
After a dermaplaning session, your routine does not need to be complex. In fact, simpler is usually better. Focus on:
- Consistent cleansing
- Hydration
- Barrier support
- Sun protection
Strong acids and scrubs can be cut back, since you already had a deep manual exfoliation. If you keep everything strong at once, you risk burning out your skin barrier and ending up more red and sensitive than before.
Common myths and misunderstandings
Because dermaplaning sounds very simple, it picks up a lot of myths online. A few of the most common ones are worth clearing up.
“My hair will grow back thicker and darker”
As mentioned earlier, vellus hair does not change type because you shave it. The follicle and hair structure stay the same. When the hair grows, the blunt cut tip can feel different between your fingers, so it may seem thicker. But it is not actually changing to terminal hair.
“Dermaplaning will erase my wrinkles”
It can make fine surface lines look softer because the skin reflects light more evenly. But it does not fill or lift deep wrinkles. Collagen changes involve deeper layers of skin and usually need long term care, sometimes including retinoids, microneedling, or other treatments.
“It is the same as shaving at home”
Regular razors are designed for hair removal, not precise exfoliation. Some people do get a smoother look with at home shaving, but the control, sterility, and skill level are not the same. It is closer to a basic shave than a full professional dermaplaning session.
“It is painless for everyone”
Most people find it comfortable. Still, people with very sensitive skin, active irritation, or anxiety about blades can feel more uneasy or notice mild discomfort. Saying it is painless for everyone oversimplifies real experiences.
What it feels like after the treatment
Many people walk out of the spa touching their cheeks, almost surprised by how smooth they feel. That part is real. The “baby skin” feeling is common. But you might also notice:
- Mild redness or warmth, usually fading within a few hours
- Products penetrating faster, which may increase any stinging
- A heightened awareness of your skin in sun or wind
If you go skiing, hiking, or spend long periods outdoors soon after, you may want extra care. A scarf, hat, and diligent sunscreen can help protect that refreshed surface from windburn or sun exposure.
Costs and value: is dermaplaning worth it?
In Colorado Springs, dermaplaning prices vary, often somewhere in the moderate range for facial treatments. Some places offer it as a stand alone service, others bundle it into longer facial packages.
Whether it is “worth it” is personal. It depends on your budget, your priorities, and how much you enjoy that smoother makeup and fresher feel. If you expect dramatic anti aging change, you might feel let down. If you just want smoother texture and hair removal in one step, you might be very happy.
I think a fair way to judge is:
- Try one session with a reputable provider
- Take photos before and after in the same light
- Pay attention to how your skin feels and behaves for two weeks
- Decide if the result justifies the cost and time for you
Your answer might not match your friend’s answer, and that is fine. Your skin, your money, your routine.
Simple aftercare tips that actually help
There is a lot of advice about dermaplaning aftercare, and some of it is more complicated than it needs to be. In reality, a few simple habits do most of the work.
- Avoid strong scrubs, peels, or harsh brushes for about 3 to 5 days
- Use gentle, fragrance free or low fragrance products if you can
- Apply moisturizer twice a day, more if your skin feels tight
- Wear sunscreen daily, even if you just run errands
- Skip tanning beds and long, unprotected sun exposure
If your provider gives a printed or written aftercare plan, follow that first. They know what products they used and how strongly they treated your skin. If their plan seems too aggressive or if something burns or itches, speak up and ask for adjustments rather than staying silent.
One last thing: what if you are still unsure?
Not every treatment is for everyone. Some people love the smoothness of dermaplaning and book it like clockwork. Others try it once, feel neutral, and move on. Both responses are valid.
If you are undecided, it might help to ask yourself a couple of plain questions:
- Is peach fuzz and flaky texture one of my main concerns?
- Am I willing to invest in sunscreen and basic aftercare?
- Do I prefer quick treatments with little downtime?
If your answer is “yes” to those, dermaplaning in Colorado Springs is likely at least worth a test run. If not, your time and money might be better spent on other options.
Common question: Will dermaplaning help my skin if I already use retinol and exfoliating acids?
The short answer is: it can help, but you need to be careful.
Retinol and acids already speed up cell turnover or help shed dead cells. Dermaplaning also removes that top layer. When you combine them, you can get a very smooth result, or you can cross the line into irritation if you are not careful.
If you already use those products:
- Pause strong acids and high strength retinol for a few days before your appointment, if your provider recommends it
- Wait a few days after dermaplaning before you restart full strength
- Watch your skin; if it looks red, tight, or stings easily, go slower
Sometimes, the best approach is a small adjustment rather than doing everything at full strength all at once. You do not have to chase every treatment at the same time to get healthy, radiant, smooth skin.