Discover the ideal treatment sequence, recommended waiting times, and essential pre- and post-care tips for dermaplaning after Botox.
Have you recently had Botox and are now wondering if you can schedule a dermaplaning treatment? Or perhaps you’re planning your beauty treatments calendar and want to know the ideal sequence? You’re not alone. Many wonder about the relationship between these two popular cosmetic procedures and how to schedule them for optimal results.
Understanding Dermaplaning and Botox
Before we dive into the timing details, let’s quickly refresh our understanding of these two popular treatments.
What is Dermaplaning?
Dermaplaning is an exfoliating treatment that removes dead skin cells and vellus hair (peach fuzz) from your face using a surgical scalpel. The procedure leaves your skin smoother, brighter, and more receptive to skincare products. It’s a non-invasive procedure that takes about 30 minutes and requires no downtime.
What is Botox?
Botox involves injecting small amounts of botulinum toxin into specific muscles to temporarily relax them, reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. The results typically last 3-4 months, and the procedure is quick with minimal discomfort.
Can You Dermaplane After Botox?
Yes, you can get dermaplaning after Botox, but timing is crucial. The consensus among cosmetic surgeons is to wait at least 24 hours after Botox before undergoing dermaplaning. However, many professionals recommend waiting up to two weeks for optimal results and safety.
Why Wait After Botox?
The waiting period is recommended for several important reasons:
- Botox Migration Risk: The physical manipulation during dermaplaning (exfoliating method, pushing and pulling of the face) could potentially move the Botox away from the injected area before it has fully settled.
- Muscle Relaxation Time: It takes approximately two weeks for muscles to fully relax after Botox injections. After this period, there’s less chance of the Botox being displaced during dermaplaning.
- Skin Sensitivity: Your skin might be more sensitive immediately following Botox injections, making it advisable to wait before introducing another treatment.
Recommended Waiting Periods
Different sources suggest varying waiting periods, but here’s a consensus based on professional recommendations:
| Treatment Sequence | Minimum Wait Time | Ideal Wait Time |
| Botox → Dermaplaning | 24 hours | 1-2 weeks |
| Dermaplaning → Botox | None required | None required |
| Fillers → Dermaplaning | 1-2 weeks | 2 weeks |
Can You Get Botox After Dermaplaning?
If you’re planning your treatments in reverse order, you’ll be pleased to know that getting Botox after dermaplaning is generally the preferred sequence. This approach eliminates the risk of the dermaplaning procedure affecting your Botox results.
When you have dermaplaning first, your skin is freshly exfoliated and more receptive to treatments. There’s no waiting period required between dermaplaning and subsequent Botox injections.
Dermaplaning and Botox: Best Practices
To ensure you get the most out of both treatments while maintaining safety, follow these best practices:
Pre-Treatment Guidelines
If you’re planning to have both treatments, consider these preparation tips:
- Consult with professionals: Always discuss your treatment plans with qualified practitioners who can provide personalized advice.
- Plan your treatment calendar: If possible, schedule dermaplaning first, followed by Botox.
- Stop using certain products: Discontinue Retin-A at least 5 days before dermaplaning.
- Avoid other facial treatments: Wait 14 days after chemical peels, laser treatments, or IPL before dermaplaning.
Post-Treatment Care
After both treatments, proper aftercare is essential:
- Gentle cleansing: Use a gentle cleanser for 24-48 hours after dermaplaning.
- Avoid harsh products: Don’t use abrasive cleansers, retinol, salicylic acid, or benzoyl peroxide for 5 days following dermaplaning.
- Sun protection: Apply SPF daily and avoid sun exposure as much as possible for at least 3 days post-treatment.
- Avoid heat exposure: Stay away from excessive heat, heavy workouts, steam rooms, and saunas for 48 hours after dermaplaning.
- Makeup application: Wait 24 hours before applying makeup after dermaplaning.
Common Questions About Dermaplaning After Botox
Let’s address some frequently asked questions about combining these treatments:
Will My Hair Grow Back Thicker After Dermaplaning?
No, this is physiologically impossible. The soft, fine vellus hair will grow back slowly – usually in about 4 weeks – and will be no different than it was previously. Dermaplaning will not cause facial hair to grow back thicker or darker.
How Often Can I Get Dermaplaning?
Dermaplaning can be performed every 3-4 weeks. This treatment removes about 2-3 weeks’ worth of dead skin cells, and you should allow enough time between treatments for your skin to complete its normal 30-day cycle.
Can Dermaplaning Be Combined With Other Treatments?
Yes, dermaplaning works well with other treatments. It’s particularly effective before LED Light Therapy as it enhances the absorption of light into the skin’s epidermis, maximizing benefits. However, always follow the recommended waiting periods between different treatments.
Contraindications for Dermaplaning
Not everyone is a suitable candidate for dermaplaning. You should avoid this treatment if you have:
- Active acne
- Active cold sores
- Flat warts
- Skin cancer
- Flare-up of eczema or dermatitis
- Rosacea
- Sunburn
- Uncontrolled diabetes
- Recent use of Accutane (within the last 6-12 months)
- Thick dark facial hair
Additionally, pregnant women and those undergoing chemotherapy, radiation, or hormonal therapy should avoid dermaplaning.
Why Timing Matters: The Science Behind Treatment Sequencing
Understanding why proper timing between treatments matters requires a brief look at how both procedures work with your skin.
Botox Settlement Process
When Botox is injected, it needs time to bind to nerve endings and begin blocking the signals that cause muscle contractions. This process isn’t instantaneous:
- First 24 hours: During this critical period, the Botox is still settling into the targeted muscles. Any manipulation of the treatment area could potentially cause the Botox to migrate to unintended muscles.
- Days 3-7: You’ll begin to notice the effects as the Botox starts working.
- Days 10-14: Full effects are typically achieved as the muscles reach maximum relaxation.
Dermaplaning’s Physical Impact
Dermaplaning involves physical manipulation of the skin’s surface with a scalpel. This creates several considerations when performed after Botox:
- Pressure and movement: The technique requires applying pressure and making sweeping motions across the face, which could potentially displace recently injected Botox.
- Increased blood flow: Dermaplaning temporarily increases circulation to the face, which theoretically could affect how Botox settles in the early stages.
- Skin sensitivity: Both treatments can cause temporary sensitivity, so spacing them out helps your skin recover properly between procedures.
Creating Your Optimal Treatment Timeline
If you’re incorporating both dermaplaning and Botox into your beauty regimen, here’s an ideal timeline to follow:
Option 1: Dermaplaning First (Preferred)
- Week 1: Get dermaplaning treatment
- Same day or anytime after: Receive Botox injections
- 4 weeks later: Schedule next dermaplaning session
Option 2: Botox First
- Week 1: Receive Botox injections
- Week 3: Schedule dermaplaning (after Botox has fully settled)
- Week 7: Next dermaplaning session (if desired)
Maximizing Results From Both Treatments
To get the most benefit from combining dermaplaning and Botox, consider these tips:
Enhanced Product Absorption
One of the major benefits of dermaplaning is that it removes barriers to product absorption. After dermaplaning (and once it’s safe following Botox), your skincare products will penetrate more effectively. Consider using:
- Hydrating serums with hyaluronic acid
- Vitamin C for brightening
- Peptide treatments to complement the Botox effects
Maintaining Results
Both treatments require maintenance, but on different schedules:
- Botox: Typically needs refreshing every 3-4 months
- Dermaplaning: Ideally performed every 4 weeks
By staggering these treatments appropriately, you can maintain consistently refreshed skin throughout the year.
Finding Your Perfect Treatment Sequence
When it comes to dermaplaning after Botox, the key takeaways are:
- You can combine both treatments safely with proper timing
- The preferred sequence is dermaplaning first, then Botox
- If getting Botox first, wait at least 24 hours before dermaplaning, but ideally 1-2 weeks
- Always consult with professionals about your specific situation
By understanding the relationship between these two popular treatments and following the recommended guidelines, you can enjoy the benefits of both while maintaining optimal results and skin health.
Remember that every person’s skin is unique, and what works perfectly for one individual might need adjustment for another. Working with qualified skincare professionals who understand your specific concerns and goals will help you create the perfect treatment plan for your needs.
Have you tried combining dermaplaning and Botox? What was your experience with timing between treatments? I’d love to hear about your skincare journey in the comments below!
