Shaving faces at the clinic has become the hot new trend in skin care treatments. Called dermaplaning, the procedure uses a straight-edge razor — in the hands of a skilled professional — that will remove the dead layers of skin cells, restoring skin to its lustrous appearance.
Many who look into the treatment have heard this old refrain: Shaving is why men don’t get wrinkles. In their minds, getting this exfoliating treatment every two to four weeks is a cure and preventative for wrinkles.
If you do a search on the Internet for dermaplaning, you’ll see the same information touting a cure for wrinkles.
So is it? Well, yes and no. Let’s delve a little further in the topic.
What is Dermaplaning?
At its core, dermaplaning is a deep exfoliation technique. Exfoliation is usually limited to removing the outer, dead skin layers, and it can be accomplished through physical removal via a sharp razor or rough surface, or through chemical reaction like a chemical peel.
Exfoliation for Youthful Skin
Exfoliation can and does make your skin appear younger. Dead skin cells can accumulate in wrinkles and make them appear worse (think poorly applied foundation). Dull skin also hides that youthful look.
But, by itself, exfoliation does not do the one thing that helps alleviate those fine lines: plump the skin by creating collagen and elastin. Collagen and elastin are the essential components for diminishing and preventing wrinkles. This is why you don’t see wrinkles on teenagers: their faces are full of those youthful proteins.
However, you can use dermaplaning in conjunction with an excellent moisturizer that helps restore collagen to maximize its wrinkle-fighting capabilities. With the dead skin cells removed, product will be more easily absorbed into the lower skin levels for dramatic results.
So Why Don’t Men Get Wrinkles?
If shaving doesn’t keep men’s skin looking better longer, then what does? Basic biology. But don’t get too jealous just yet. What keeps men’s skin tighter for longer is extra sweat glands and oil.
About Jennifer
Jennifer Curtin is a medical aesthetician who is nationally recognized for her expertise in medical skin care. With more than 20 years of experience in medical aesthetics, she is dedicated to the aesthetic industry and has received awards of merit including the International CIDESCO Certification, Assistant Cosmetic Laser Practitioner and National Leadership Award. Jennifer is also an expert in skin tightening procedures and the president of Skintherapy, a med spa located in the Buckhead section of Atlanta. To schedule an appointment with Jennifer, call 404-358-2961 or click here.
