In this review
Sonic dermaplaning uses high-frequency vibrations to remove facial hair and dull surface cells, revealing glowing, younger-looking skin underneath. But which tools actually work? To find out, our staff tested the leading brands and found a CLEAR winner.
Dermaflash Luxe+
While other tools cause irritation and lead to lackluster results, Dermaflash delivers smooth, radiant skin in just five minutes. Makeup goes on easier and facial hair won’t grow back thicker or faster - so you only have to use it once every 1-2 weeks.
In this review
Sonic dermaplaning is a technique that combines gentle exfoliation with high-speed vibration for complete facial hair removal, revealing a brighter, more youthful complexion. And now, with products like Dermaflash’s Luxe+ and Michael Todd Beauty’s Sonicsmooth Pro+, it’s something you can do at home in just five minutes.
First, What is Dermaplaning?
Dermaplaning means using a blade to scrape away the top layer of dead skin cells and fine vellus hair, often called "peach fuzz". When done correctly, this process is proven to reveal smoother, brighter skin, lessen the appearance of scars and fine wrinkles, and improve the appearance of makeup.1,2
Sonic dermaplaning tools like the Dermaflash Luxe+ and Michael Todd Beauty Sonicsmooth Pro+ promise to use high-frequency vibrations to gently remove debris, peach fuzz, and dull surface cells. Unlike traditional dermaplaners, sonic tools promise no cuts or irritation; and your hair does not grow back thicker or faster, meaning fewer applications.
So with the help of skincare expert Dr. Nicolette Natale, we tested and reviewed these two leading devices to see which delivers the best results. Read on to find out!
How to Sonic Dermaplane
Sonic Dermaplaning is a surprisingly easy DIY. The process takes less than 10 minutes, done every 1-2 weeks for best results.
Dr. Nicolette Natale, our board-certified doctor and skincare expert, provides some tips:
- Before: “Start with clean, dry skin. Remove any makeup, oil, or buildup”
- During: After skin dries, gently glide the device over your face in gentle short, downward strokes. Don’t press - let the tool do the work.
- After: “Your skin will be extra absorbent, so apply a hydrating moisturizer and SPF,” says Natale.
What to Expect After Sonic Dermaplaning
- Right After: Skin should be sensitive, but not red or burning - this is the sign of a cheaply-constructed dermaplaner. Facial hair will be 100% removed, revealing glowing, smooth skin underneath!
- Next Day: With proper aftercare, your skin will look (and feel) red carpet-ready. Plus, your makeup will apply more smoothly and evenly.
- 1-2 Weeks: Hair will start to grow back. But don’t worry - unlike with standard razors, it will never grow back thicker or faster, no matter how frequently you sonic dermaplane.
Dermaflash Luxe+ vs. Michael Todd Beauty Sonicsmooth Pro+: Our Test Results
Which at-home sonic dermaplaning tool is best? Our editor, Alex (39) tested Dermaflash Luxe+ and Michael Todd Beauty Sonicsmooth Pro+ for 2 weeks each.
Hair Removal & Exfoliation
🥇 Dermaflash: Removed all of Alex’s facial hair and peach fuzz, minimized her pores, and left her skin evenly smooth and glowing.
The hair, dead skin cells, and other gunk visibly shed off the blade with each swipe. “It was so satisfying,” she said.
❌ Michael Todd Beauty: The razor does not do as good of a job at removing peach fuzz and dead skin, Alex noted. Multiple passes meant the dermaplaning process took twice as long as with the Dermaflash Luxe+.
Skin Feel & Appearance
🥇 Dermaflash: Smooth, like after a facial, with a “glowy” even tone. Alex described the experience as a “5-minute facial.” “My skin looks brighter and feels smoother, and my face looks a few years younger,” she said.
❌ Michael Todd Beauty: Irritated, slight burning, with a duller finish and reddish skin. Rather than smoothly gliding across skin, the blade tugged in a few spots. The net result was skin irritation. “It burned a bit, and my skin was red after” claimed Alex. “I won’t be using it again.”
Overall, Dermaflash outperforms on facial hair removal and results. Dr. Natale echoed these findings, calling Dermaflash Luxe+ “both the safer and more effective choice.”
Dermaflash Luxe+ vs. Michael Todd Beauty Sonicsmooth Pro+: Product Features
Blade
🥇 Dermaflash: Dr. Natale, our skincare expert, explains how the Luxe+ blade’s Microfine Edges “remove every trace of peach fuzz and dead skin without tugging or irritation.” The blade is engineered to get as close to the skin as possible, with a safety cage to prevent cuts and irritation.
❌ Michael Todd Beauty: Uses a single-use, standard razor, which does not get as close to the skin.the blade is a standard razor head and does not contour to the face. “It’s kind of like a drugstore razor with a motor,” said Alex, our tester.
Ergonomics & Materials
🥇 Dermaflash: The Luxe+ is sleek, and easy to hold. “The design is intuitive. It just glides over your skin” noted Alex. The Luxe+ is ergonomically shaped, with an angled blade to account for the various curves of your face.
❌ Michael Todd Beauty: The Sonicsmooth Pro+’s wide base makes it a bit tougher to hold in one hand for long periods, and the curved handle makes it more difficult to get as close to the skin.
Safety
🥇 Dermaflash and Michael Todd Beauty are both safe to use. Dermaflash includes a blade safety cage and a single blade speed, which was effective and comfortable. Michael Todd Beauty also includes a safety guard. It has 3 blade speeds, but our tester only saw best results on the highest setting.
Extras
🥇 Dermaflash: The Luxe+ starter kit includes a PREFLASH facial cleanser with salicylic acid, niacinamide, and witch hazel to deeply exfoliate and brighten skin.
❌ Michael Todd Beauty: Facial cleanser must be purchased separately.
Price
🥇 Michael Todd Beauty: Although slightly more expensive ($172) to start, offers cheap razor blade refills - just $25 for 8.
❌ Dermaflash: Costs $169 to start (including our exclusive 15% TCD discount). A 4-blade refill, including extra PREFLASH facial cleanser prep, is $29.
Final Verdict: Dermaflash Luxe+ Is the Clear Winner
After weeks of testing and input from skincare expert Dr. Nicolette Natale, the results were clear: Dermaflash Luxe+ is the best sonic dermaplaning tool on the market.
Most importantly, the results speak for themselves - glowing, smooth skin that will take years off your face. From the thoughtful design to the high-quality skincare add-ons, everything about the Dermaflash experience feels intentional.
“If you’re after smoother and brighter skin, Luxe+ is the one I trust,” says Dr. Natale. “It’s easy to use, safe, and you can see and feel a real difference after just one treatment.”
We recommend the Dermaflash Luxe+ for real, glowing results. Ready to try it? Get 15% off with code TCD15.
1. Evolution Dermatology: Benefits of Dermaplaning
2. Everyday Health: Benefits of Dermaplaning
