Dermaplaning vs Threading: Which Is Right for You?
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Dermaplaning vs Threading: Which Facial Hair Removal Gives You The Best Results?
Both remove unwanted facial hair — but they work very differently. This guide breaks down exactly how each method works, who they suit, and which one delivers the results you’re looking for.
Beauty Mercado • Comparison Guide • Esthetician-Reviewed • 8 min read
DIRECT ANSWER
Dermaplaning removes peach fuzz AND exfoliates dead skin for a smooth, radiant complexion. Threading removes hair from the root for precise shaping, but offers no skin benefits. Choose dermaplaning for full-face glow; choose threading for brows and targeted areas.
What Is Dermaplaning?
Dermaplaning is a professional facial treatment that uses a sterile surgical scalpel to remove both fine vellus hair (peach fuzz) and the top layer of dead skin cells from the face. The blade is held at a 45-degree angle and stroked gently across the skin in short, feathering motions.
The hair removal is a bonus — the primary goal is exfoliation. By clearing the surface of dead skin and peach fuzz in one pass, dermaplaning leaves skin immediately smoother, brighter, and better able to absorb serums and moisturisers. Makeup sits flawlessly on skin that has been dermaplaned.
It covers the full face — forehead, cheeks, chin, and upper lip — and takes around 30–45 minutes with zero downtime. Professional sessions typically cost £50–100 in the UK, $50–350 in the US, or €30–95 in Europe.
What Is Threading?
Threading is a traditional hair removal technique that uses a thin, twisted cotton thread to catch and pull hair directly from the follicle. The thread is looped and rolled across the skin, trapping hairs and removing them in a clean line.
Because it removes hair from the root rather than cutting at the surface, threading results last longer than shaving — typically 3 to 6 weeks. It is most commonly used on the eyebrows, upper lip, chin, and sides of the face. Threading typically costs £5–£15 for brows or upper lip.
Threading does not exfoliate, and it does not treat the skin in any other way. Its sole purpose is hair removal — but for precise, defined areas like brows, it is extremely accurate.
How Dermaplaning and Threading Actually Compare
What They Remove
Dermaplaning removes fine vellus hair and the entire surface layer of dead skin cells. You’re getting hair removal and full-face exfoliation in one treatment.
Threading removes hair only — pulled from the root. No exfoliation, no skin resurfacing.
How Long Results Last
Dermaplaning: Hair grows back in 3–4 weeks at the same texture and colour.
Threading: Hair is removed from the follicle so regrowth takes 3–6 weeks. Over time, repeated threading can cause hair to grow back finer.
Precision & Coverage
Dermaplaning covers the entire face evenly. Excellent for removing the widespread fine peach fuzz that makes skin look dull. Not suitable for eyebrow shaping.
Threading is extremely precise — ideal for defining brows, removing upper lip hair, or shaping specific areas. Not practical for treating the whole face.
Skin Benefits Beyond Hair Removal
Dermaplaning: Brighter complexion, smoother skin texture, better product absorption, flawless makeup application.
Threading: None. Threading is purely a hair removal method.
Comfort During Treatment
Dermaplaning is completely painless. Most clients describe it as a gentle, satisfying scraping sensation.
Threading is mildly uncomfortable, particularly around the upper lip and chin.
Does Dermaplaning Make Hair Grow Back Thicker or Darker?
No — this is one of the most persistent myths in skincare. Dermaplaning cuts vellus hair at the surface but does not affect the hair follicle. Hair grows back at exactly the same texture, colour, and rate as before.
Dermaplaning vs Threading — Side by Side
| Feature | Dermaplaning | Threading |
|---|---|---|
| Removes peach fuzz | Yes | Yes |
| Exfoliates skin | Yes | No |
| Removes hair from root | No | Yes |
| Covers full face | Yes | No |
| Shapes eyebrows | No | Yes |
| Improves skin texture | Yes | No |
| Painless | Yes | Mildly uncomfortable |
| Downtime | None | None |
| Results last | 3–4 weeks | 3–6 weeks |
| Typical Price | £50–100 / $50–350 / €30–95 | £5–15 / $5–20 / €5–18 |
Which One Is Right for You?
Choose Dermaplaning If You...
- Want smoother, brighter skin as well as hair removal
- Have fine peach fuzz across your cheeks and forehead that makes skin look dull
- Wear a lot of makeup and want it to apply more smoothly
- Want a relaxing, completely painless facial treatment
Choose Threading If You...
- Specifically want to shape and define your eyebrows
- Want upper lip or chin hair removed from the root for longer-lasting results
- Prefer a chemical-free, blade-free method
Or Do Both — They Work Brilliantly Together
Many clients use dermaplaning for full-face exfoliation and peach fuzz removal, and add threading specifically for brow shaping and upper lip. The two treatments serve different purposes and don’t overlap.
Why Buy Dermaplaning Tools from Beauty Mercado?
Beauty Mercado is a trusted global supplier for professional beauty tools and accessories. Buyers choose us because we offer:
- Authentic, brand-verified Swann Morton blades — from £8 per pack / $10 / €9
- Sterile, single-use blades for maximum safety
- Competitive global pricing with no hidden fees
- Worldwide shipping with reliable delivery partners
- Secure packaging to protect sterile items
- Bulk-friendly options for studios and clinics — save on multi-packs
- Dedicated customer support for international buyers
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get dermaplaning and threading on the same day?
Yes — many clients do exactly this. Threading is best done first and dermaplaning second. Always tell your therapist so they can adjust their approach around freshly threaded areas.
Will dermaplaning remove eyebrow hair?
A trained therapist will carefully avoid the eyebrow area when dermaplaning. The treatment is only performed on areas with fine vellus hair.
Which is better for sensitive skin?
Dermaplaning is generally better tolerated by sensitive skin as it doesn’t pull or tug the skin. Threading can cause temporary redness and irritation, especially on reactive skin.
How much does dermaplaning cost compared to threading?
Dermaplaning typically costs £50–100 / $50–350 / €30–95 for a full-face session. Threading costs £5–15 / $5–20 / €5–18 for brows or upper lip. Many clients choose both for complete facial hair management.
How long do results last for each treatment?
Dermaplaning results last 3–4 weeks. Threading results last 3–6 weeks because hair is removed from the root.
Shop Professional Dermaplaning Tools
Swann Morton blades, No.3 handles, and complete dermaplaning kits — trusted by aestheticians worldwide.
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Written by The Beauty Mercado Editorial Team
The Beauty Mercado Editorial Team creates expert guidance across beauty, wellness, skincare, makeup, tools and supplements to help you shop with clarity and confidence.