Acne & Advanced Treatments

In a recent Dermaplaning live stream here on the community with @Crystal Dietz, a question came up that sparked a conversation: Can you dermaplane on a client with acne?

The answer was: it depends. On the type of acne, the number of lesions, and the overall condition of the skin. In some cases, it may be appropriate to work around inflamed areas. In others, it’s a clear no.

And that opens up a broader question: When it comes to acne, how are we deciding which advanced treatments are appropriate, and when?

We know acne isn’t one-size-fits-all. From congestion and microcomedones to inflamed papules and pustules, the grade of acne and condition of the skin should guide modality selection, intensity, and timing. Treatments like dermaplaning, chemical peels, nano infusion, or even microneedling can all have a place in acne treatment plans, but not always at the same time, and not for every client in front of us.

It comes down to:

• lesion type and severity

• level of inflammation

• barrier health

• and how the skin is currently behaving

Sometimes, it’s more nuanced than we think. A client presenting with one or two isolated pustules on the cheek isn’t necessarily contraindicated for every advanced treatment, but it does require thoughtful modification. That might mean working around active lesions, adjusting your technique, or even reconsidering whether that service is the most appropriate choice in that moment.

When used intentionally, advanced treatments can also play a supportive role in acne management, helping to address congestion, improve skin function, and enhance overall outcomes. The key is knowing when to introduce them, and when to hold back.

What advanced services are you incorporating into your acne treatments, and how do you decide when it’s safe to introduce them?