Epi-Blading (Dermaplaning)

What is epiblading?

Epiblading is a manual exfoliation treatment performed using a sterile, surgical-grade blade that is gently moved across the surface of the skin. This helps remove built-up dead skin cells and fine facial hair from the outermost layer of the skin.

The treatment does not change the structure of the hair follicle or make hair grow back thicker or darker. It removes fine vellus hair from the skin surface, allowing the skin to feel softer and smoother.

Epiblading is commonly chosen for clients who want a polished, fresh and glowing look, especially before events or as part of an ongoing skin maintenance program.

What concerns can epiblading help with?

Epiblading may assist with a range of common skin concerns, particularly where the skin feels rough, dull or uneven.

It may be suitable for:

• Dull or tired-looking skin
• Rough or dry skin texture
• Fine vellus hair or peach fuzz
• Uneven skin tone
• Makeup sitting unevenly on the skin
• Congestion caused by surface build-up
• Reduced skincare absorption
• Mild superficial pigmentation concerns
• Skin preparation before selected facial or peel treatments

Epiblading is not designed to treat deep scarring, active inflammatory acne, severe pigmentation or medical skin conditions. If a concern requires further assessment, Dermé has a cosmetic doctor on site who can assess and refer if needed.

Epiblading consultation at Dermé

Your epiblading treatment begins with a skin assessment. This allows us to check your skin type, current skin condition, sensitivity, recent treatments, medical history and skincare routine.

Your consultation may include:

• Assessment of skin texture, congestion and sensitivity
• Review of recent cosmetic treatments or active skincare use
• Discussion of current skincare products
• Assessment of whether epiblading is suitable for your skin
• Advice on whether a peel, LED or facial treatment may be combined
• Pre-treatment and aftercare guidance
• A personalised skincare and maintenance plan

If your skin is irritated, sunburnt, broken, inflamed or actively breaking out, your practitioner may recommend postponing epiblading until the skin barrier has settled.

How epiblading works

During treatment, the skin is cleansed and prepared. A sterile blade is then gently passed across the face at a controlled angle to remove surface build-up and fine vellus hair.

The treatment is usually comfortable and does not involve needles, heat or laser energy. Most clients describe the sensation as light scraping or gentle exfoliation.

After treatment, calming and hydrating skincare may be applied to support the skin barrier and enhance the fresh, smooth feel of the skin.

Treatment areas

Epiblading is most commonly performed on the face. Areas may include:

• Forehead
• Cheeks
• Upper lip area
• Chin
• Jawline
• Sideburn area
• Neck in selected cases

Epiblading is not usually performed over eyelids, eyebrows, active cold sores, open skin, inflamed acne, suspicious lesions or areas of irritation.

Benefits of epiblading

Epiblading can help create a smoother and brighter-looking skin surface by removing superficial build-up and fine facial hair.

Potential benefits may include:

• Smoother-feeling skin
• Brighter and fresher-looking complexion
• Improved surface texture
• More even makeup application
• Better absorption of selected skincare products
• Removal of peach fuzz
• Minimal downtime
• A polished glow before events

Results vary between clients and depend on skin type, skin condition, skincare routine and maintenance.

Epiblading and skincare products at Dermé

Professional skincare is an important part of maintaining results after epiblading. Because the treatment removes surface build-up, the skin may absorb topical products more effectively after treatment.

At Dermé, your practitioner may recommend selected skincare products to support hydration, barrier repair, brightness and ongoing skin health. This may include gentle cleansers, hydrating serums, barrier-supporting moisturisers, brightening products and daily sunscreen.

A personalised Dermé homecare plan may help to:

• Maintain smoother skin texture
• Support the skin barrier after treatment
• Improve hydration and radiance
• Reduce dullness between appointments
• Support even skin tone
• Prepare the skin for future treatments
• Protect the skin from sun exposure

Using the correct skincare after epiblading is important. Harsh exfoliants, strong active ingredients or unsuitable products may irritate the skin, particularly in the first few days after treatment.

Can epiblading be combined with other treatments?

Epiblading may be combined with selected skin treatments depending on your skin type and goals. Your practitioner will advise whether a combination approach is suitable.

Combination options may include:

• LED light therapy
• Hydrating facial treatments
• Selected chemical peels
• Professional skincare programs
• Skin brightening treatments
• Maintenance facials

Not every treatment should be combined on the same day. Skin sensitivity, recent treatments, active skincare use and your skin barrier will be considered before planning a combined approach.

Who is suitable for epiblading?

Epiblading may be suitable for clients wanting smoother, brighter-looking skin with minimal downtime. It can be helpful for clients with fine vellus hair, dull skin, uneven texture or makeup that does not sit smoothly.

It may not be suitable if you have:

• Active inflammatory acne
• Open wounds or broken skin
• Active cold sores
• Sunburn
• Recent facial waxing or laser on the same area
• Highly irritated or compromised skin
• Certain skin infections
• Uncontrolled eczema, dermatitis or rosacea flare
• Recent use of strong exfoliating or prescription skincare without appropriate preparation

Your practitioner will assess your skin and advise whether epiblading is appropriate on the day.

Preparation before epiblading

Before epiblading, you may be advised to avoid anything that can irritate or sensitise the skin.

Pre-treatment advice may include:

• Avoid excessive sun exposure before treatment
• Avoid facial waxing or hair removal on the area before treatment
• Avoid strong exfoliating products for several days before treatment
• Avoid harsh scrubs or active peeling products
• Tell your practitioner about recent treatments or skin reactions
• Arrive with clean skin where possible

Your practitioner will provide advice based on your skin condition and treatment plan.

What to expect after treatment

After epiblading, the skin may feel smooth, fresh and more refined. Some clients may notice temporary pinkness, tightness or mild sensitivity, especially if their skin is naturally reactive.

In the first few days after treatment, it is important to protect and hydrate the skin. Makeup may usually be worn after treatment if the skin is comfortable, but your practitioner may advise waiting depending on your skin response.

Aftercare may include:

• Use gentle skincare for the first few days
• Apply daily broad-spectrum sunscreen
• Avoid direct sun exposure
• Avoid exfoliating products until advised
• Avoid strong active ingredients for a short period
• Avoid picking, scrubbing or irritating the skin
• Keep the skin hydrated and protected

Your practitioner will guide you on when to restart active skincare products.

How often should I have epiblading?

The frequency of epiblading depends on your skin cycle, hair regrowth, skin sensitivity and goals. Many clients choose maintenance treatments every few weeks or before special events.

Your practitioner will recommend a suitable schedule based on your skin assessment and whether epiblading is being used alone or as part of a broader skin program.

Why choose Dermé for epiblading?

At Dermé Aesthetic Clinic, epiblading is performed as part of a personalised skin approach rather than a one-size-fits-all facial service.

Our approach includes:

• Skin assessment before treatment
• Personalised treatment planning
• Professional skincare guidance
• Focus on skin barrier health
• Calm and careful technique
• Combination treatment options where suitable
• Doctor-led clinic environment
• Cosmetic doctor on site who can assess and refer if needed

We aim to help improve skin smoothness, radiance and confidence while keeping treatment safe, realistic and tailored to your skin.

Frequently asked questions

What is epiblading?

Epiblading is a manual exfoliation treatment that uses a sterile blade to remove surface dead skin cells and fine vellus hair from the face. It is also known as dermaplaning or epidermal levelling.

Is epiblading the same as shaving?

Epiblading is different from regular shaving. It is performed as a professional skin treatment using a sterile surgical-grade blade and is designed to exfoliate the skin as well as remove fine facial hair.

Will epiblading make my hair grow back thicker or darker?

No. Epiblading does not change the structure of the hair follicle. Fine vellus hair generally grows back with the same texture and colour as before.

Does epiblading hurt?

Epiblading is usually comfortable. Most clients describe the sensation as gentle scraping or light exfoliation on the skin.

Is there downtime after epiblading?

There is usually minimal downtime. Some clients may experience temporary pinkness, tightness or mild sensitivity, which typically settles quickly.

Can I wear makeup after epiblading?

Many clients can wear makeup after treatment, but your practitioner may advise waiting if your skin is sensitive or reactive on the day.

Is epiblading suitable for acne?

Epiblading is not usually suitable over active inflammatory acne, open lesions or irritated skin. If you have acne, your practitioner may recommend an alternative skin treatment or wait until active inflammation has settled.

Can epiblading help pigmentation?

Epiblading may help improve the appearance of dullness and superficial uneven tone by removing surface build-up, but it is not a treatment for deeper pigmentation or melasma. A separate pigmentation plan may be recommended if needed.

Can epiblading be done before an event?

Yes, epiblading is often chosen before events because it can help the skin feel smoother and allow makeup to apply more evenly. It is best to plan treatment in advance, especially if you have sensitive skin.

How often should I have epiblading?

Treatment frequency depends on your skin cycle, hair regrowth and goals. Your practitioner will recommend a suitable maintenance plan during your appointment.

Do I need skincare after epiblading?

Yes. Gentle skincare and daily sunscreen are important after epiblading. Dermé may recommend selected skincare products to support hydration, barrier repair and long-term skin health.

Who should avoid epiblading?

Epiblading may not be suitable if you have active acne, sunburn, open skin, active cold sores, skin infection, severe sensitivity or a compromised skin barrier. Your practitioner will assess your suitability before treatment.