First skin resurfacing treatment with dermaplaning? What to expect and how to prep

One of the things people mention about our studio is the warm, welcoming vibe and how relaxed they feel during their visit. If you’re nervous about your first dermaplaning facial treatment, that’s normal. Most first-timers are not worried about pain as much as they’re worried about the unknown. The good news is dermaplaning is a fast, non-invasive skin resurfacing treatment that removes dead skin and peach fuzz, usually with minimal discomfort and very little downtime.

Below, we’ll walk you through simple prep, exactly what happens during your 45-minute appointment at True U Aesthetics, and how to take care of your skin after. This is especially helpful if you’re squeezing a refresh into a busy San Francisco week or you’re visiting from Daly City, South San Francisco, Sausalito, Oakland, Colma, or anywhere nearby.

Before dermaplaning: 6 prep steps that make a big difference

Dermaplaning works best when we start on calm, clean skin. If you can, do these things before you come in.

• Arrive with a clean face. Come makeup-free if you can. If not, no stress. We’ll cleanse thoroughly before we begin.
• Pause strong exfoliants for a few days. We generally recommend stopping retinoids and other strong topicals for several days before your appointment so your skin isn’t extra reactive.
• Tell us about medications, especially isotretinoin. This matters for safety. Let us know what you’re using so we can decide if dermaplaning is a good fit right now.
• Skip recent aggressive chemical peels. If your skin is already recovering, we’ll usually hold off.
• Avoid sunburn and fresh irritation. If you’re pink, peeling, or tender, it’s better to reschedule than push through it.
• Flag any active breakouts or open areas. Active cystic acne or open wounds can be a no-go for dermaplaning that day. We’ll talk it through with you.

Your 45-minute dermaplaning facial at True U Aesthetics, step by step

If you’ve ever avoided a facial because you don’t want to feel rushed or talked into add-ons, you’ll appreciate how we work. People stick with us for years because we take our time explaining things and answering questions, and we’re happy to adjust so you feel good about the plan.

1) We start with a quick skin check and a plain-English plan

When you arrive in our Van Ness Corridor / Civic Center studio, we’ll talk through what you’re hoping to see. A lot of first-timers want smoother makeup application, less dullness, and that clean look you get when peach fuzz is gone. Tell us if you’re prepping for an event, traveling, or you just want a lunchtime refresh near City Hall or Union Square.

2) Cleansing, then dermaplaning (this is the part everyone worries about)

We cleanse first, then your specialist uses a sterile blade at a very controlled angle to gently remove dead skin and vellus hair. The sensation is usually light and scratchy in a mild way, not painful. Some areas, like around the mouth, can feel a little more sensitive. We’ll check in with you, and you can always ask us to slow down or avoid an area.

3) Vitamin C mask + anti-aging infusers to finish

Our dermaplaning facial treatment includes a Vitamin C mask and anti-aging infusers to nourish and support that fresh, newly exfoliated surface. This is when most people fully relax. It’s also where you’ll notice the “glassier” look starting to show up.

"Lena is a pro, she takes her time to explain her services to you and answer any questions you might have - and she is always happy to adjust to make sure you are happy with the final result."

one of our long-time clients

After dermaplaning: what’s normal today, and what to avoid for 48 hours

Right after dermaplaning, your skin tends to look brighter and feel extremely smooth. Mild redness can happen, especially if you’re naturally reactive, and it usually fades within a few hours. Most people go right back to their day, which is a big reason dermaplaning is popular for professionals and travelers who can’t take downtime in San Francisco.

• Sunscreen every morning. SF fog doesn’t block UV the way people think it does.
• No heavy sweating or steam for 24 to 48 hours. That means saunas, hot yoga, and super-steamy showers.
• Keep makeup light the same day if you can. If you need to wear it, choose something gentle and remove it carefully.
• Plan your next visit 3 to 6 weeks out. That timing usually matches natural skin turnover and keeps results consistent.

Timing tips for San Francisco events, plus who should skip dermaplaning

If you’re doing dermaplaning for a photo, a meeting, or a special night out, we generally like a little buffer so any mild redness has time to settle and your glow looks even. For many people, 2 to 7 days before an event is a sweet spot. If you’re sensitive, plan a week out.

Now the important part. There are times we’ll recommend skipping dermaplaning that day. Active cystic acne, open wounds, fresh irritation, or certain medications and retinoids can make dermaplaning a bad idea. Just tell us what’s going on. We’d rather keep your skin calm than push through and regret it.

A few insider tips that help first-timers love their results

Here’s what we see over and over after 9 years in San Francisco: the people happiest with dermaplaning treat it like a reset, not a one-time fix. They space it out, keep their aftercare simple, and protect that fresh skin with SPF.

And don’t be shy about asking questions. We’re used to working with people who’ve had mixed experiences elsewhere and want a calmer, clearer appointment. That’s why we talk you through it and keep the pace comfortable.

"I have also just started dermaplaning with her and am in love with this service she is offering!"

one of our regulars

Address: 1901 Van Ness Avenue Ste A, San Francisco, California 94109