Nervous About Your First Dermaplaning Facial (and Still Searching “Microblading”)? Here’s What to Expect

A Dermaplaning Facial is a quick, manual exfoliation that removes dead skin and fine vellus hair for an immediate smoother, brighter complexion. Most people feel little to no discomfort during the treatment. You might look a bit pink for a few hours (sometimes up to 24 to 48 hours), then your skin tends to look clearer, makeup sits better, and products absorb more evenly. I’m located in Encino, right off the Ventura Boulevard corridor near Balboa and White Oak, so it’s an easy stop if you’re coming from Tarzana, Sherman Oaks, or Van Nuys and need results without a long downtime.

Before you come in: 6 prep steps that keep dermaplaning gentle

If you’ve been googling facials, waxing, microblading, and everything in between, prep can feel confusing. I keep it simple. Please arrive with a clean face and skip heavy makeup or thick products. And for the 24 hours before your appointment, avoid strong skincare products and extra sun exposure. Those basics matter because dermaplaning works best on calm skin.

Also, let me know about any skin concerns, allergies, or recent treatments when you arrive. A lot of clients tell me they appreciate that I explain things clearly and pay close attention to what their skin actually needs, so you never feel rushed through the conversation.

Inside the 60-minute Dermaplaning Facial ($145): cleanse, AHA, dermaplane, infuse, mask

If you’re worried it’s going to feel “scrapey” or intense, take a breath. People regularly describe my touch as gentle, and the vibe as calming and spotless. I’ll talk you through what I’m doing, and you can ask questions at any point.

Step 1: Skin check + cleansing

I start by looking at your skin up close, then I cleanse to remove surface oils and any leftover residue. This is where I decide how “active” to go with the next step. My goal is smooth and bright, not irritated.

Step 2: AHA peel (light, controlled exfoliation)

Next is a gentle AHA peel. You might feel mild tingling or warmth. It should not feel like burning. If you’re sensitive, tell me right away and I’ll adjust how I work.

Step 3: Dermaplaning with a sterile scalpel

This is the part everyone wonders about. I use a sterile scalpel at a specific angle to lift off dead skin and fine vellus hair. Most people describe the sensation as light scraping or feathering. It’s usually more “weird” than painful. I work in sections so you’re never guessing what’s happening.

Step 4: Ampule infusion + nourishing mask

After exfoliation, I focus on hydration and calming. That’s where the ampule infusion and nourishing mask come in. A lot of clients tell me they leave feeling “refreshed” and that their skin looks brighter right away.

After dermaplaning in Encino sun: what’s normal, what to avoid, when to rebook

Right after your facial, it’s normal to have mild redness or a little sensitivity. Many people see that smoother look immediately, and I hear “my skin was glowing after my facial” constantly. One client even told me friends notice days later and say, “wow you are glowing.” That’s the kind of low-drama result dermaplaning is known for.

For maintenance, most people do best scheduling dermaplaning about every 4 to 6 weeks. If you’re planning photos or an event, I usually suggest booking 3 to 7 days ahead so your glow looks fresh and your skin has time to fully settle.

My “first-timer” tips for dermaplaning, plus a quick note on microblading eyebrows

Here’s what I’ve noticed after years of working with first-timers in Encino and nearby neighborhoods like Reseda, Studio City, and North Hollywood: the people who love their results most are the ones who tell me what they’re using at home and what they’re trying to fix. Dry patches. Dullness. Makeup that pills. I’ll meet you there.

“Adi at Vida Bel Beauty explained each step clearly, and the products were tailored to my skin’s needs. The results were immediate, my complexion looked brighter, hydrated, and rejuvenated.”

one of our regulars

And yes, I see the keyword mix-up all the time. Microblading eyebrows is a brow service, not a facial. If you came in searching “microblading” but what you really want is smoother texture and brighter skin, dermaplaning is the right lane. If you want fuller-looking brows that still look natural, I do offer permanent makeup too, and clients tell me their brows look “just naturally fuller.”

If you want to compare options first, take a look at best facials in Encino, check my picks for summer facials in Encino, or skim best facial treatments in Encino to see what fits your skin and schedule.