As a child, I’d be puzzled watching my mum run a razorblade down my face, but she did it so gently and I never got any cuts. I now know she was doing a beauty technique called dermaplaning.

This is a form of exfoliation that helps remove dead skin cells and tiny facial hairs called peach fuzz—the result is smoother, silkier looking skin, that helps products penetrate the surface easily and, makeup applies flawlessly.

You only need to use this dermaplaning exfoliation technique once a month—too many times could put you at a risk of irritating your skin. I recommend dermaplaning before bedtime because anytime you exfoliate, skin needs to recover and skin cells repair while you sleep.

How to use the dermaplaning technique

This is usually a nighttime routine but if I do it during the day, I stay indoors and away from direct sunlight. First, I use an alcohol prep pad to sanitize my dermaplaning tool and allow it to dry. Using a dry face towel, I wipe the excess oils off my skin. I also prefer to do this on days when I skipped on makeup, so I don’t have to wash my face first, because you don’t want your skin too dry or too oily. With one hand, I stretch out part of my face so the blade can run more smoothly and with the tool in the other hand, I lightly scrape that section of my face. With dermaplaning, you don’t want to repeatedly run the blade in the same spot as you could irritate the skin or make a cut. When I’m done, I use a gentle cleanser and apply a hydrating moisturizer.

On days when I exfoliate, I avoid using too many products on my face. A good moisturizer and sunscreen (for daytime) does the trick and that’s it. Keep the tool clean and dry. Use it a maximum of three times then replace it. If you see any rust on your razor, please do not use that tool as a serious infection could happen.

The best dermaplaning tools are the ones that come with detachable razors so you can use a new one every time. For the tools that have multiple uses, I prefer to get one with a cover, so the blade is not exposed in between uses. Clean the tool preferably with alcohol and allow it to completely dry before storing away. Also, for reusable tools, I recommend using it a maximum of three times. You don’t need to buy the pricier $100 tools. The cheaper ones get the job done and you don’t feel bad for disposing of it after a few uses.

Also, I highly recommend dermaplaning If you have smoother skin with little to no acne because running a razor down a bumpy skin surface could cause cuts.

Purchase dermaplaning tool here