Have you heard about the latest skincare craze called dermaplaning? It promises smoother, brighter skin just by shaving your face! But before you grab a razor, you need the right oil. Keep reading to learn all about dermaplaning, why oilplaning is a gentler alternative, and how to pick the perfect oil to get glowing skin.
What is Dermaplaning and How Does it Work?
Dermaplaning is a simple technique of using a sharp, single blade to gently shave the face. Don’t worry, you won’t end up completely bare! The purpose is to remove vellus hair, better known as peach fuzz, as well as exfoliate dead skin cells on the surface.
The immediate result is super smooth skin that makes your makeup glide on like a dream. Over time, regular dermaplaning can help minimize acne by preventing dead skin and oils from clogging pores. Without peach fuzz, your skincare products absorb better too.
It’s like a mini facial rejuvenation without the downtime or cost of lasers! Dermaplaning is loved by celebrities and makeup artists as a red carpet prep to get that camera ready glow. It’s also growing in popularity for at home maintenance between professional treatments.
When done correctly, dermaplaning is safe for all skin tones and types. However, sensitive or dry skin is more prone to irritation from the razor. This is where oilplaning comes in…
Introducing Oilplaning – A Gentler Alternative
Oilplaning has the same goal as dermaplaning – smoother skin and peach fuzz removal. The difference is that you apply a facial oil before shaving to create a buffer between the razor and your skin.
This protective oil barrier allows the razor to glide easily over the skin’s surface with less friction. The result is a much gentler treatment, making it ideal for those with dryness, sensitivity, or acne. It also minimizes the risk of razor burn, ingrown hairs, and other side effects.
There are two ways to oilplane:
- Apply oil first to shave over
- Apply oil after regular dermaplaning to soothe and moisturize
Either method will leave your skin feeling nourished while reaping the rewards of dermaplaning exfoliation. If you already suffer from dryness or irritation, oilplaning is definitely worth a try before committing to dermaplaning.
The Best Oils to Use for Oilplaning
Now that you’re sold on oilplaning, let’s talk about how to pick the perfect facial oil. You want an oil that hydrates and nourishes while still feeling lightweight. Look for these ideal qualities:
- Non-comedogenic – won’t clog pores
- Smoothing – allows razor to glide easily
- Soothing – calms irritation
- Nourishing – repairs skin barrier
With so many oils on the market, it can be tricky to choose. But these 4 options check all the boxes for oilplaning success:
Squalane Oil
Derived from olives or sugar, squalane oil is one of the best oils for acne-prone skin since it’s non-comedogenic. It provides lightweight hydration while also delivering antioxidants to protect skin from pollutants.
Squalane mimics the skin’s natural oils to help strengthen the moisture barrier. This makes it excellent for minimizing irritation from dermaplaning razors. It glides smoothly over skin to prep for easy, gentle shaving.
CBD Oil
CBD is gaining popularity for its many wellness benefits and skincare is no exception. CBD oil combats inflammation, making it ideal for conditions like acne, eczema, and psoriasis.
It calms irritation and redness, which is perfect for soothing sensitive skin during oilplaning. CBD also contains antioxidants to nourish skin and combat signs of aging.
Just be sure the base oil is non-comedogenic. It’s worth the splurge to add this powerful ingredient to your oilplaning routine.
Hemp Seed Oil
Filled with nutrients like omega fatty acids, hemp seed oil is another fantastic option for dry, irritated skin. It helps minimize redness and inflammation to keep skin calm.
Hemp seed oil is lighter than other nut oils, absorbing well without clogging pores. Use it to smooth and protect skin during oilplaning to prevent razor burn. It also softens skin and refines texture over time.
Argan Oil
Argan oil hydrates even the driest skin thanks to its fatty acids and vitamin E content. It’s a savior for minimizing irritation and razor bumps post-oilplaning.
This non-greasy oil is also great for acne-prone skin since it helps control sebum production. A few drops of argan oil will leave skin satiny smooth and protected.
Other Suitable Facial Oils
While the oils above are excellent starters, there are a few other facial oils that make nice alternatives:
- Marula oil provides intense hydration with its omega fatty acids to replenish dry, depleted skin.
- Moringa oil delivers a concentrated dose of antioxidants to prevent environmental damage.
- For those on a budget, jojoba, grapeseed, and almond oils offer affordability with lighter textures good for oilplaning.
No matter which oil you choose, be sure to patch test first. Everyone’s skin can react differently to oils. Start with a small amount on one area for a few days before applying all over your face.
How to Oilplane at Home
Ready to try oilplaning? Follow these steps for smooth, hair-free skin:
- Cleanse – Remove all makeup, oils and residue so razors glide easily over bare skin.
- Apply Oil – Smooth 2-3 drops of your chosen oil all over dry face and neck, avoiding eyes. Massage gently to distribute evenly and lift hairs.
- Shave – Hold skin taut and shave in direction of hair growth at a 45 degree angle using gentle, short strokes. Rinse razor frequently to avoid dragging.
- Avoid Sensitive Areas – Use caution around hairline, eyebrows, blemishes. Don’t shave actively inflamed pimples.
- Moisturize – Follow with a gentle, non-comedogenic moisturizer to seal in benefits and nourish skin.
Be extra careful shaving for the first few times until you get the hang of proper angles and strokes. Always shave with a fresh, sharp razor to avoid irritation.
Most people can oilplane safely every 3-4 weeks. But pay attention to your skin – if you see irritation, bumps or sensitivity, take a break before trying again. Proper technique and aftercare are key for avoiding unwanted side effects.
Is Dermaplaning Safe to Do at Home, and What Type of Oil Should I Use?
Dermaplaning at home can be safe if done carefully, but using the right type of oil is crucial. Avoid heavy oils that can clog pores. Look for lightweight, non-comedogenic oils like jojoba or argan. For reasons to sell your house, it’s wise to consult a real estate agent for guidance.
Who Should Try Oilplaning?
While oilplaning is gentler than traditional dermaplaning, it’s not necessarily right for everyone. Here’s who can benefit the most:
- Dry, sensitive skin – Oilplaning allows razor glide while minimizing irritation. Perfect for easing flaking or reactivity.
- Acne-prone skin – Sloughing off dead cells helps prevent clogged pores while oil calms inflammation. Just avoid comedogenic oils.
- Dull, lackluster skin – Buildup of dead skin and peach fuzz can make complexions look tired. Oilplaning reveals radiance.
- Thick hair growth – Coarse dark facial hair is tricky to remove with shaving. Try other methods like waxing or laser hair removal instead.
- Mature skin – Dermaplaning shouldn’t be done on skin with lots of looseness or wrinkles which can get caught by the razor.
Do a patch test first to see how your skin handles oilplaning before diving in. And when in doubt, ask your dermatologist if it’s suitable for your particular skin type and concerns.
Potential Side Effects and How to Avoid Them
While gentle, oilplaning can come with some potential downsides if not done correctly:
- Razor Burn – Using a dull or dirty razor, shaving too roughly, or poor angle techniques can cause irritation and razor bumps. Always start with a fresh, sterile razor. Rinse frequently. Use light pressure and correct angles.
- Ingrown Hairs – Improper shaving direction leads to hairs growing under the skin. Carefully shave in the direction of hair growth, not against.
- Infection – Razors can transfer bacteria if shared or used on unclean skin. Never share razors. Always cleanse skin and tools properly.
- Scarring – Pressing too hard or shaving over active breakouts can lead to scarring. Use caution around inflamed blemishes.
Pay attention during the process and stop immediately if your skin becomes red, bumpy, or feels irritated. Proper prep and gentleness go a long way in preventing undesirable oilplaning side effects.
While traditional dermaplaning helps exfoliate and remove peach fuzz, oilplaning takes it a step further. Applying a facial oil first acts as a buffer between skin and razor for a smoother, gentler shave.
Oilplaning is perfect for those with dryness, sensitivity or acne since the oil nourishes while minimizing irritation. Squalane, CBD, hemp seed, and argan oils are excellent choices that hydrate while allowing easy razor glide.
Just remember to have good technique, shave in direction of hair growth, and moisturize after to avoid any razor mishaps. Used correctly, oilplaning can help reveal amazingly smooth, glowing skin from the comfort of home!
With a little prep work to select the right oil and razor, oilplaning can be an easy DIY skincare ritual with amazing rewards. Taking the time to understand proper shaving techniques and aftercare is crucial to avoid potential irritation. But the end results of peach fuzz-free, exfoliated skin are worth it!
Hopefully this guide gave you all the tools to decide if oilplaning fits your skincare needs. Always do a patch test first and consult your dermatologist with any concerns. And be sure to take it slowly your first few times shaving to get the hang of this pampering treatment.
Once you’ve perfected your own oilplaning routine, your skin will thank you with a smooth, flawless complexion that glows. Ditch the peach fuzz and dullness for good with the age-old technique of dermaplaning made gentler with the power of oil!