Dermaplaning is a very popular way of removing dead skin cells and peach fuzz from the face. It leaves the skin looking brighter, smoother, and more youthful.
However, it can be irritating on some skin types, which is what prompted the rise of oilplaning – a gentler yet just as an effective version of this procedure.
But to be able to achieve the best results this treatment can offer, you need to use the right kind of oil. So, if you’re dermaplaning by yourself, here’s what you should know when it comes to choosing the best oil for dermaplaning at home.
Why You Should Be Using Oil for Dermaplaning at Home
Dermaplaning is a very popular exfoliation method so it’s no surprise it was adapted for at-home use. However, what many people don’t know is that they aren’t actually dermaplaning when doing this procedure at home – instead, they are performing a very similar treatment called oilplaning.
Before we talk about what is the best oil for dermaplaning, let’s first understand why oil is essential for this treatment.
Regular dermaplaning involves the use of a sharp blade that scrapes the surface of the skin to remove the dead skin cells and peach fuzz from the face, leaving it smoother and more even.
But, this blade also causes friction which can irritate the skin, and lead to redness, dryness, and even small cuts if not performed professionally – this is where the benefits of oil come in.
By applying oil prior to dermaplaning, you’re creating a barrier between the blade and the skin’s surface. This helps reduce friction and allows the blade to glide over the skin instead of scraping against it, minimizing any irritation or discomfort.
To discover the best way to perform this procedure by yourself, check out our Step-by-Step Guide Through Dermaplaning at Home, as well as our Guide Through Choosing the Right Dermaplaning Tool.
Why Does Choosing a Good Face Oil for Dermaplaning Matter?
There are many benefits of dermaplaning (you can read about them here), but the benefits of oilplaning actually exceed them.
Not only does the oil play a crucial role in lubricating and protecting the skin during the treatment, but it also softens the hair and dead skin cells, making them easier to remove – which results in more effective treatment.
Plus, we shouldn’t disregard that some of the oil will inevitably penetrate into the skin, so it’s also very beneficial when it comes to providing hydration and nourishment.
But be careful when choosing an oil for oilplaning at home, as opting for the wrong kind of oil can have negative consequences on the skin.
For example, using a heavy or comedogenic oil can clog pores and cause breakouts. On the other hand, using an oil that is too light or not nourishing enough may not provide enough lubrication and protection.
Since each oil has different properties that make it appropriate for different skin types and concerns, it’s important to know which oil is suitable for your skin’s needs.
Image source: Freepik
What to Look for in Face Oil for Dermaplaning
There are a couple of things you should look for when choosing oil for dermaplaning:
- You should strive for an oil that’s naturally derived and has very simple ingredients. The more natural, the better and gentler for your skin when oilplaning.
- As exfoliation can irritate your skin barrier, make sure the oil is not heavily fragranced as it can leave your skin looking red and irritated.
- Choosing a non-comedogenic face oil is crucial. Non-comedogenic facial oil can be used on all skin types, ensuring you don’t clog your pores during or right after dermaplaning will prevent a post-facial breakout.
- Face oil should have nourishing and hydrating properties that bring back moisture, keep your skin protected, and aid in strengthening your skincare barrier.
But most importantly, you need to take into consideration what your skin needs.
Best Oils for Dermaplaning According to Skin Types
To get the most out of your treatment, you need to use the right oils for your skin type. While some oils may work wonders for certain skin types, they can be too heavy or cause breakouts for others.
Here are what qualities to look for, according to what’s beneficial for your specific skin needs:
The Best Oil For Dermaplaning Oily and Acne-Prone Skin
Oily skin is caused by an overproduction of sebum creating excess oil – and when there are excess oils on the skin, it’s more prone to breakouts and inflammation.
This is also true for acne-prone skin as acne breakouts are also often caused by an overproduction of sebum.
The best oil to use for dermaplaning oily skin is a non-comedogenic oil that’s high in linoleic acid and low in oleic acid. It’s a good idea to look for an oil that’s also light in texture so that it doesn’t further clog the pores. Good oils to look for are:
- Jojoba oil (similar in structure to natural skin oils so it won’t clog up pores)
- Sweet almond oil (fatty acids in almonds may help dissolve excess oil on the skin)
- Sunflower seed oil (non-comedogenic carrier oil which is highly absorbent)
- Grape seed oil (lightens skin discolorations like acne scars, but is also lightweight enough not to clog pores)
- Squalane oil (very lightweight yet still nourishing)
Our best oil for dermaplaning recommendations:
The Best Oil For Dermaplaning Dry Skin
Dry skin is often caused by a lack of moisture that can make it more prone to irritation, redness, and flaking. Dehydrated skin tends to look dull and makes fine lines and wrinkles more noticeable.
The best oils to use for this skin type are oils that are rich in essential fatty acids and that will help the skin’s barrier’s lipid balance and increase moisture retention. Oils like that are:
- Avocado oil (moisturizing emollient that soothes and repairs the skin as well)
- Coconut oil (acts as a protective layer that sits on top of the skin and locks in moisture)
- Argan oil (hydrates the skin and softens dry patches)
These oils are also great for mature skin as it’s often dryer and thinner which makes it more prone to wrinkles, sagging, and dullness. A good facial oil can help to hydrate it and give it a youthful glow.
Our best oil for dermaplaning recommendations:
The Best Oil For Dermaplaning Sensitive Skin
Sensitive skin is often caused by an overactive immune system. This can be due to genetics, environmental factors, or certain medications. When the skin is sensitive, it’s more prone to inflammation, redness, and irritation. So the best oils would be with calming ingredients, like:
- Chamomile oil (has anti-inflammatory properties)
- Lavender oil (has anti-inflammatory and calming skin properties)
- Almond oil (gentle and hypoallergenic)
- Jojoba oil (similar in structure to the natural oils produced by our skin so it won’t irritate it)
Our best oil for dermaplaning recommendations:
The Best Oil For Dermaplaning Normal Skin
Normal skin is often described as skin that’s not too dry and not too oily, and since it’s well-balanced, there aren’t really any major concerns specific kinds of oils need to resolve.
So, the best choice would be an oil that’s light in texture and easily absorbed, and ideally packed with antioxidants and nutrients to help protect the skin from environmental damage. Good oils to look for are:
- Jojoba oil (lightweight, easily absorbed into the skin)
- Argan oil (lightweight and non-greasy,)
- Rosehip oil (rich in antioxidants and essential fatty acids, so it’s great for nourishing and hydrating the skin)
- Squalane oil (helps the cell renewal process within your skin)
Our best oil for dermaplaning recommendations:
What Skin Care Routine Should You Follow After Oilplaning?
While choosing a good face oil for dermaplaning is a crucial step in this process, you need to know how to treat your skin after the procedure as well.
For example, a common cause of confusion is what should be done with the oil residue that’s left on the face after finishing a dermaplaning session – should you remove it or rub it in?
Since the residue also contains debris, hair, and dead skin cells mixed in with the oils, you should always remove it first. Gently cleanse the skin and then apply your post-dermaplaning skincare.
But be careful what you’re using – given that your skin absorbs better post-treatment, steer clear of harsh, fragranced, and aggressive products. You need to hydrate and protect your newly exposed skin layer.
The best course of action would be to use the hyaluronic acid serum first, to help replenish your skin, and then lock that moisture in with a rich moisturizer or facial oil. But there are of course other options that you can explore here.
In Conclusion
To achieve the best results from dermaplaning, it is crucial to choose the appropriate oil that will give you the desired outcome of the treatment.
But with such a wide range of products available, selecting a good face oil for dermaplaning can be overwhelming.
Rather than choosing the most popular ones, opt for oils that contain the ingredients that best suit your skin’s needs. Because, at the end of the day, a good face oil for dermaplaning is whatever works for your skin type.
Cover image source: Freepik
