Can You Use a Glycolic Acid Cleanser After Dermaplaning? Expert Advice for Safe, Glowing Skin

Dermaplaning is a favorite treatment for instant smoothness and radiance, but it leaves your skin extra sensitive. If you love glycolic acid cleansers for their brightening and exfoliating power, you might wonder: Is it safe to use them right after dermaplaning? Here’s what the experts say—and how to keep your skin healthy and glowing in Qatar.

What Happens to Your Skin After Dermaplaning?

Dermaplaning uses a sterile blade to gently remove dead skin cells and peach fuzz, revealing a fresh, smooth layer of skin. This process makes your face more receptive to skincare, but also much more sensitive to irritation, dryness, and sun exposure. (Ellemes Med Spa)

Should You Use Glycolic Acid Cleanser After Dermaplaning?

No—don’t use glycolic acid right after dermaplaning. Most dermatologists and skincare professionals recommend avoiding glycolic acid, retinoids, and other strong exfoliants for at least 3–7 days after your treatment. Your skin’s barrier is temporarily weakened, so using acids too soon can cause redness, burning, and excessive dryness. (Ellemes Med Spa, Colaz, Flawless Aesthetic Center)

How Long Should You Wait?

- First 3–7 days: Use only gentle, hydrating cleansers—no acids, scrubs, or retinoids. (Colaz) - After 1 week: If your skin feels calm and there’s no redness, you can slowly reintroduce glycolic acid or other exfoliants, starting with once a week. Monitor for any irritation. - After 2 weeks: Most people can return to their regular routine, including glycolic acid cleansers, if their skin is fully healed. (Cosmedic Laser MD)

What Should You Use Instead?

• Gentle, sulfate-free cleanser: Look for calming ingredients like aloe vera or chamomile. Avoid foaming cleansers, scrubs, or anything labeled “exfoliating.”
• Hydrating serum: Hyaluronic acid is a great choice to replenish and soothe.
• Barrier-repair moisturizer: Choose a rich, fragrance-free formula with ceramides or peptides.
• Mineral sunscreen: Your skin is more sun-sensitive after dermaplaning—apply SPF 30+ daily, even indoors. (WestEnd MedSpa)

Why Not Glycolic Acid Right Away?

Glycolic acid is a chemical exfoliant that dissolves dead skin cells. After dermaplaning, your skin is already freshly exfoliated—adding more exfoliation can disrupt your barrier and trigger irritation, redness, or even breakouts. (Flawless Aesthetic Center)

When—and How—to Safely Reintroduce Glycolic Acid

1. Wait at least 7 days (or until your skin feels completely calm and healed).
2. Patch test your glycolic acid cleanser on a small area first.
3. Start with once a week, then gradually increase if there’s no irritation.
4. Always follow with moisturizer and sunscreen.

If you’re new to glycolic acid, check out our Ultimate Beginner’s Guide to Glycolic Acid.

FAQs: Dermaplaning and Glycolic Acid

Can glycolic acid help with breakouts after dermaplaning?

Some sources suggest that glycolic acid can help prevent clogged pores once your skin has healed, but only reintroduce it when your skin barrier is strong again. (Cristin Cooper)

What if my skin is still red or irritated after a week?

Wait longer before using any acids or actives. Focus on hydration and barrier repair. If irritation persists, consult a dermatologist.

What’s the best cleanser after dermaplaning?

A gentle, hydrating cleanser is best. Avoid anything with acids, scrubs, or strong fragrances. Try PEXORA’s Vitamin C Cleanser for a gentle, soothing cleanse.

PEXORA’s Tips for Glowing, Healthy Skin in Qatar

At PEXORA Beauty, we recommend treating your skin with extra care after dermaplaning. Once your skin is ready, our Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Cleanser is a gentle way to maintain smoothness and radiance. For those first few days, our Vitamin C Cleanser is a soothing, hydrating option.

Want more expert tips? Read our guides on Glycolic Acid for Beginners, Choosing the Best Glycolic Acid Cleanser, and Face vs. Body: Glycolic Acid Cleansers.

Final Thoughts

After dermaplaning, your skin deserves gentle, nourishing care. Hold off on glycolic acid cleansers for at least a week, then reintroduce them slowly for the best results. With patience and the right products, you’ll enjoy lasting smoothness and a radiant glow—Qatar style!