| Category Name | Content |
| Name | Dermaplaning |
| Uses | Exfoliation of the epidermis to remove dead skin cells, fine vellus hair (peach fuzz), and improve skin texture and product absorption. |
| Route Of Administration | Manual exfoliation using a sterile surgical scalpel applied to the skin's surface. |
| Frequency Of Use | Typically every 3-4 weeks; may be performed as part of a facial or before chemical peels or laser treatments for enhanced results. |
| Concentration(s) | N/A (manual exfoliation technique). |
| Maximum Dosage (Day, Wk) | One session per treatment area every 3-4 weeks; excessive treatments may cause irritation or sensitivity. |
| Contraindications | Active acne, open wounds, skin infections, rosacea, eczema, psoriasis, active cold sores (herpes simplex virus), uncontrolled diabetes, or use of isotretinoin within the last 6 months. |
| Possible Side Effects | Temporary redness, mild sensitivity, skin irritation, minor nicks or cuts, potential for breakouts, rare allergic reaction to post-treatment products. |
| Compatibility With Other Treatments/Drugs | Safe to combine with facials, hydrating masks, and mild chemical peels. Avoid combining with aggressive exfoliation treatments (e.g., deep chemical peels, microneedling, laser resurfacing) on the same day. |
| Allergies | Assess for allergies to post-treatment skincare products (e.g., serums, moisturizers, SPF). |
| Administration Time | 30-45 minutes per session. |
| Dosing/Settings | Performed using a sterile 10 or 14 gauge surgical scalpel at a 45-degree angle, applied in gentle strokes. |
| Test Spot Requirement | Not required, but first-time patients with sensitive skin should be observed for post-treatment irritation. |
| Pre-Treatment Guidelines | - Discontinue retinoids, AHAs, BHAs, and exfoliating agents at least 3-5 days before treatment. - Avoid sun exposure and self-tanners for at least 48 hours prior. - Ensure skin is clean and free of makeup, lotions, or oils before treatment. - Patients with a history of cold sores should start antiviral prophylaxis (e.g., valacyclovir 500 mg BID x 5 days). |
| Provider Clearance Guidelines | - Ensure the patient has no contraindications before proceeding. - If the patient has a history of sensitive skin or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, proceed with caution and document risk counseling. - Consult a physician for patients with a history of severe acne, rosacea, or recent cosmetic treatments (e.g., Botox, fillers, laser therapy). |
| Pre-Treatment Screening Workflow | - Does the patient have active acne or skin infection? (If YES, contraindicated) - Has the patient used isotretinoin in the last 6 months? (If YES, contraindicated) - Is the patient currently using retinoids, AHAs, or BHAs? (If YES, require discontinuation for at least 3-5 days prior) - Does the patient have a history of cold sores? (If YES, antiviral prophylaxis recommended) |
| What To Do If Adverse Reaction Occurs | - **Minor cuts or nicks**: Apply light pressure with sterile gauze and antiseptic ointment. - **Skin irritation or excessive redness**: Apply a cool compress and soothing serum. - **Breakouts post-treatment**: Recommend gentle, non-comedogenic skincare and avoid picking at the skin. - **Severe allergic reaction (rare)**: Stop treatment immediately, cleanse the skin, administer antihistamines if necessary, and refer to medical care if symptoms persist. |
| Clinic Implementation Guidelines | - Ensure treatment room setup includes sterile surgical blades and disposable gloves. - Cleanse the skin thoroughly before beginning treatment. - Perform treatment in gentle, controlled strokes, avoiding areas of inflammation or active breakouts. - Document any skin abnormalities and patient response post-treatment. |
| Photographic Documentation Protocol | - Take standardized pre-treatment photos (front, left, right angles). - Capture post-treatment images to track skin texture improvement. - Store securely in the patient’s medical record. |
| Post-Treatment Care | - Apply hydrating serums and sunscreen immediately post-treatment. - Advise patients to avoid sun exposure for at least 48 hours and wear SPF 50+ daily. - Recommend avoiding exfoliating products, retinoids, or aggressive skincare for 5-7 days. - Mild redness may last a few hours; makeup can typically be applied the next day. |
| Additional Documentation Requirements | - Signed informed consent detailing treatment expectations and risks. - Patient history screening for contraindications. - Treatment session log including tools used, areas treated, and patient response. - Post-treatment recommendations documented in the patient’s chart. |