Dermaplaning has been around for a few years. But the new viral product, Hair Identifier Spray, has upped the shaving game with its unique feature. People are using it to highlight every single strand of hair on their faces.
As with most products from TikTok shop, there’s a fair amount of skepticism associated with Hair Identifier Spray too. After all, you’re trusting it with your face. So we spoke to a certified dermatologist to understand the pros and cons of using the viral product before dermaplaning and her advice is to proceed with caution.
Is the Hair Identifier Spray safe to use?
Certified dermatologist Dr. Hannah Kopelman tells The Focus that safety is her top priority when it comes to applying anything to the face.
“Hair Identifier sprays typically contain dyes or other chemicals that may not suit everyone’s skin. If you have sensitive skin or a history of allergic reactions, it’s crucial to check the ingredients carefully,” she said.
The skin expert strongly recommends doing a patch test on a small area of your skin before using the spray on your entire face. This ensures you don’t have an adverse reaction.
We asked Dr. Hannah if clogged pores are a concern when using the viral product, to which she responded: “One of my concerns with these sprays is the potential for residue to be left on the skin, which could clog pores and lead to breakouts.”
To avoid any build-up from the usage of the spray, ensure to cleanse thoroughly after spraying it on your face.
Skin expert’s tip for dermaplaning
Dr. Hannah tells The Focus that using the hair identifier for shaving your face isn’t a bad idea because it highlights every strand of hair, “making the process more effective.”
“If you decide to use it, make sure your skin is clean and dry before applying the spray, and follow up with a thorough cleansing routine to remove all traces of the product after dermaplaning,” the skin expert advises.
As for dermaplaning itself, Dr. Hannah shares the following tips:
- Cleanse thoroughly: Always start with a clean face to prevent bacteria from spreading during the procedure.
- Use a sharp, clean blade: Using a dull blade increases the risk of irritation, nicks, and cuts. Make sure to use a sterile, single-use blade or properly sanitized reusable one.
- Shave in the direction of hair growth: This helps reduce irritation and the risk of ingrown hairs.
- Moisturize afterward: Applying a gentle, hydrating moisturizer will soothe your skin and restore moisture.
- Avoid active ingredients immediately after: I recommend avoiding products with retinoids, AHAs, or BHAs right after dermaplaning, as your skin will be more sensitive and prone to irritation.
Dr. Hannah Kopelman has completed two clinical fellowships in dermatology – hair loss from Columbia University and skin cancer from Boston University. She’s also the host of the weekly podcast Derm Club, featuring interviews with leading dermatologists and skincare experts from all corners of the globe
