If you love the idea of dermaplaning but can't quite make it work for your dry skin, you need to know about oilplaning, the gentler version that helps to nourish and moisture skin while delivering all the original benefits of dermaplaning.
Dermaplaning, also known as facial shaving, has been used for centuries as a beauty prep treatment that promises instantly smoother, brighter skin. The process involves using a single bladed facial razor to remove dead skin as well as the fine, vellus hair often found on the face (otherwise known as peach fuzz).
The treatment is loved by makeup artists for allowing base makeup like foundation to glide onto the skin and blend seamlessly for a more natural finish, as well as skin experts for helping to reduce blocked pores and dullness caused by the build up of dead skin cells on the skin surface.
"Dermaplaning is an alternative way to lightly resurface the skin," says Dr. Stafford Broumand, plastic surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and cosmetic treatment expert. “It's an amazing skin secret not only for women who'd like to remove their facial hair, but it can be beneficial for anyone who wants surface layer exfoliation."
However, for some, dermaplaning can sometimes result in flaking or irritation, especially for those who have sensitive or dry skin. Rather than skip the treatment all together, experts recommend trying the process of oilplaning instead, which involves incorporating a facial oil before or after shaving.
By using a facial oil before beginning dermaplaning, there's far less friction across the skin, meaning an easier glide with less resistance and less irritation. Simply massage your chosen oil into thoroughly cleansed skin. Then, holding the skin taught with one hand, hold your dermaplaning razor in the other at a 45 degree angle. Gently glide across the skin surface in the direction of hair growth (generally, in a downwards motion) using short sweeps. If you do have any areas of irritation, redness or breakouts, avoid them completely, and make sure you wash your face after you've finished.
The other way to enjoy the benefits of oilplaning is to apply an oil after dermaplaning. For best results, choose a facial oil that best serve specific skin concerns. A popular choice is plant derived squalane oil, which helps to repair the skin's hydro-lipidic barrier to prevent water loss, making it the perfect choice for dehydrated skin. For beginners, Wing It's Dermaplaning Starter Kit provides everything you'll need to get going, including two dermaplaning razors in different sizes together with a full size hydrating 100% pure squalane oil. Or, for those who already own a dermaplaning razor, why not add in Biossance 100% Squalane Oil or The Ordinary 100% Plant-Derived Squalane for straightforward hydration on top of dermaplaning's smoothing benefits.
Then there's marula oil, which is rich in omegas 6 and 9 that help to moisturise and comfort dry skin types. We love Drunk Elephant Virgin Marula Luxury Facial Oil, which is sourced from the pip of the marula fruit, offering the purest form of the oil. Or, if you have sensitive skin, you may want to try moringa oil, which is high in antioxidants to help ward of environmental aggressors. Try Elemis Cellular Recovery Skin Bliss Capsules, which offer protection from pollution, or Mauli Supreme Skin Face Serum, which also contains argan and blackseed oils for improved firmness.
This article was originally published on Glamour UK.
