Oilplaning at Home: The Gentle Dermaplaning Trend for Glowing Skin

If you keep up with the latest skincare trends, chances are you’ve heard of oilplaning at home or seen this technique pop up on TikTok and beauty forums​.

Also known as dermaplaning with oil, oilplaning is quickly becoming a go-to beauty hack for those seeking baby-smooth, radiant skin without the irritation traditional face shaving can sometimes cause. 

This method has been praised by beauty editors and sensitive-skin gurus alike – in fact, one Popsugar beauty writer confessed that as someone with reactive skin who couldn’t tolerate regular dermaplaning, oilplaning “has been the answer to my skin’s prayers”​. 

So what exactly is oilplaning, why is it so popular, and who is it best for? Let’s dive in.

 

What Is Oilplaning at Home (and Who Is It For)?

Oilplaning is essentially dermaplaning with a twist – that twist being a layer of facial oil applied to the skin before shaving. “It’s essentially the same dermaplaning process, just with the use of an oil,” explains esthetician Ashley White*​. 

Applying a nourishing facial oil creates slip for the blade and cushions the skin – the key to oilplaning’s gentle touch.​ 

In a standard dermaplaning treatment (best done on dry, freshly cleansed skin), an exfoliating blade or scalpel is used to gently scrape off the buildup of dead skin and fine vellus hair (aka peach fuzz) from the face. 

People love dermaplaning because it instantly yields smoother, brighter skin; makeup goes on more seamlessly, and skincare products penetrate better​. In short, dermaplaning comes with plenty of benefits that are almost instant. 

However, there is a caveat—not everyone’s skin loves the dry approach and this is where oilplaning plays a major role—it’s dermaplaning’s more hydrating sibling.

According to experts at Byride, oilplaning is considered “dermaplaning’s hydrating sister,” ideal for dry, sensitive, or mature skin​.

By adding a few drops of skin-kind oil as a prep step, you create a protective slip that helps the blade glide effortlessly without tugging at the skin. 

Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Lauren Penzi notes that the oil provides a smoother glide with less resistance – leading to less irritation and lower chance of injury during the shave​.

In other words, oilplaning is tailor-made for those who find traditional dermaplaning too harsh or drying. If you have ever experienced flaking, redness, or breakouts from shaving your face dry, oilplaning might be the gentle solution.

As Glamour Magazine puts it, using oil means “far less friction across the skin, meaning an easier glide with less resistance and less irritation”​. 

Oilplaning really is a great option for those with sensitive-skin but who still crave that ultra-smooth, fuzz-free feel. It’s also the perfect solution for anyone nervous about using a razor on bare skin. (Even first-timers can feel more confident with a bit of slip to buffer the blade.)

Benefits of Oilplaning: Why Shave With Oil?

Oilplaning at home comes with all the glow-boosting benefits of classic dermaplaning – and then some. Yay! 

By gently removing the top layer of dull, dead skin cells and all that pesky peach fuzz, you’re essentially revealing a fresh canvas underneath. 

The immediate perks?

Softer, smoother skin that feels like silk, a more even tone, and a radiant glow that even highlighters envy​. Your foundation and concealer will suddenly apply flawlessly (no little hairs or dry patches to cling to), which is just one of the many reasons dermaplaning is loved by professional makeup artists​.

And by clearing away that barrier of dead cells and hair, any serums or creams you apply afterward can sink in deeper, making your skincare far more effective.

Here are some top benefits of oilplaning, backed by experts and devotees:

Gentle Exfoliation & Peach Fuzz Removal:

Oilplaning sweeps away debris and fine vellus hairs in one go, giving an instantly smoother texture and helping unblock pores that can lead to dullness​.

Over time, this exfoliation also encourages faster cell turnover for fresher, younger-looking skin​.

Enhanced Glow and Makeup Application:

Removing peach fuzz means light reflects more evenly off your skin – hello, glow! Your skin looks dewy and bright immediately post-oilplane. 

Plus, cosmetic artists swear by dermaplaning before events because makeup glides on like a dream when the skin is hair-free and baby smooth​. Think Hollywood Award season skin!

This means no more tiny hairs catching the light under foundation; your base will look airbrushed. One editor who switched to oilplaning raved that her “makeup goes on smoother” and even her self-tanner no longer catches in flaky spots​.

Better Skincare Absorption:

With the layer of congested cells gone, your toners, serums and moisturisers can penetrate directly into the skin rather than sitting on top. 

Oilplaning essentially preps your face to drink up all the nourishing ingredients you apply afterward​.

You may find that your squalane serum or night cream seems to work overtime post-dermaplane, simply because it’s able to absorb properly. It’s a cost-effective way to maximise your skincare’s benefits at home.

Less Irritation for Sensitive Skin:

Perhaps the biggest advantage that sets oilplaning apart is its kindness to sensitive skin. The oil acts as a buffer and protective shield for your skin barrier, so you’re far less likely to end up red, itchy, or raw afterward​.

The blade glides without scraping, preventing micro-cuts and razor burn. “When applying oil before shaving, the face is not as likely to be injured while shaving,” notes Dr. Geria, comparing it to how shaving cream protects your legs when you shave​.

If you’re worried that your skin couldn’t handle traditional dermaplaning, then oilplaning at home can be a game-changer. It’s essentially a way to get your glow on with minimal risk of irritation or breakouts – a win-win for smooth skin!

Hydration and Skin Barrier Support:

The right facial oil doesn’t just lubricate; it should also nourish the skin during and after the exfoliation. By using an oil rich in nourishing ingredients and antioxidants, you’re actually moisturising and calming your skin as you shave.

Some dermatologists note that oilplaning can help prevent transepidermal water loss (TEWL) that might otherwise happen after exfoliation​.

In short, your skin is left supple, not stripped. For instance, estheticians often use oil for clients with very dry skin specifically to lock in moisture during the dermaplaning process​.

The result is a post-treatment complexion that’s not only smoother but also comfortably hydrated and less prone to post-peel flakiness.

It’s no surprise that between the instant glow and the long-term perks, oilplaning at home has amassed a loyal following. Beauty editors have shared glowing testimonials: “Since switching to oilplaning, my world has been changed,” wrote one, noting smoother makeup, better skincare absorption, and zero post-shave pimples or dry patches.

Many dermatologist also agree the method “helps protect the skin’s barrier and reduce the risk of nicks and irritation”.

In other words, you get all the radiance of dermaplaning with extra comfort and added glow – what’s not to love?

 

How to Oilplane at Home (Step-by-Step)

Ready to try oilplaning at home? 

The good news is it’s a quick and easy routine you can do yourself, as long as you follow some basic guidelines. Many of the pros say at-home oilplaning is safe and effective if you use the right tools and technique​.

Oilplaning at home is essentially like giving yourself a mini-facial at home. Here’s a step-by-step guide to oilplane like a pro:

1. Oilplaning at Home - Prep Your Skin:

Start with a completely clean face. Remove all makeup, sunscreen, or dirt by cleansing thoroughly (double cleanse if you were wearing makeup)​

Having a squeaky-clean canvas helps prevent any grime from getting pushed into your skin during shaving. 

Make sure to pat the skin dry before the next step – your face should be dry to the touch.

2. Oilplaning at Home — Apply a Facial Oil: 

The key to the best oilplaning at home experience is to choose the best facial oil for your skin.

Smooth a thin, even layer of your chosen dermaplaning oil or serum onto your face. You don’t need a huge amount, just 2 to 3 drops is usually enough to cover the face​; your skin should feel slick but not dripping. 

The oil will act as a lubricant and barrier, allowing the blade to slide easily while cushioning the skin.

3. Oilplaning at Home — Use a Clean, Sharp Dermaplaning Tool: 

It’s crucial to use a sharp, clean blade each time to avoid infection or dull scraping.

You can use a disposable facial razor, but for best dermaplaning results, we recommend Make My Shave’s premium all-metal dermaplaning tool. The weighted ergonomic handle and gentle exfoliating blade are designed to provide a safe, smooth and luxurious shaving experience.  

Begin your treatment by holding the blade at a 45-degree angle against your skin​. With your other hand, hold your skin taut – gently pull the area you’re working on to create a smooth, flat surface​. This helps the blade glide smoothly and prevents nicks.

4. Oilplaning at Home — Shave in Short, Gentle Strokes:

Using light pressure, shave with short strokes in the direction of hair growth (usually downward)​.

Start at the top of your cheek or forehead and work your way down. Never shave upward or against the grain, as that can cause irritation. Use small, feathering motions rather than long swipes. You’ll notice the blade collecting dead skin and fuzz – it’s oddly satisfying! 

After a few strokes, wipe off the blade on a clean cloth or tissue to remove the buildup (a clogged blade won’t work effectively)​.

Go gently and section by section covering cheeks, temples, jawline, chin, even very carefully above the lips.

Avoid any active breakouts or irritated areas – do not run the blade over pimples, open cuts, or eczema patches, as that could spread bacteria or make it worse.

Most of all, take your time and be gentle; there’s no rush in a good self-care session. Oilplaning at home can become a self-care treatment that you truly enjoy. 

 

5. Oilplaning at Home — Cleanse and Soothe:

Once you’ve finished oilplaning and your face feels smoothly hair-free, rinse your skin or cleanse again to remove any lingering oil and shaved-off debris. 

We also recommend washing your face after shaving to ensure no oil film or loosened gunk is left sitting on the skin​.

If you cleanse, make sure to use a gentle cleanser that won’t sting. Pat the skin dry, then immediately follow up with a hydrating moisturiser to nourish that newly exfoliated skin (your products will absorb extra well now!).

If it’s daytime or you’ll be heading out, don’t skip sunscreen – freshly exfoliated skin can be a bit more sun-sensitive, so protect that glow with at least SPF 30​.

It’s also wise to avoid heavy makeup for the rest of the day to let your skin breathe after dermaplaning​.

Extra Oilplaning tips: Always sanitise or dispose of your blade after each use. Because of the delicate nature of the blades, certain razors can dull quickly, so a fresh blade each session is best, but naturally this depends on your hair growth, texture and preferences.

For most people, oilplaning once every 2-4 weeks is sufficient​. This timeframe is usually how long it takes for the skin to build up dead cells again. Overdoing it can lead to irritation, so resist the urge to shave too often. 

And if you’re unsure about technique, start slowly.  Take your time and use light pressure until you get the hang of it​. Soon, you’ll find this routine as second-nature, and the results are arguably even more rewarding!

What Oil to Use for Dermaplaning at Home?

One of the most common questions is what oil to use for dermaplaning at home?

The ideal facial oil provides enough slip for the blade, but is also skin-friendly (since it will be sitting on your face and possibly absorbing). Here’s what to look for: lightweight, nourishing oils that are non-comedogenic (meaning they won’t clog pores)​. 

You want a facial oil that gives a nice glide but doesn’t gunk up your pores or leave you feeling greasy afterward.

Dermatologists often recommend simple plant-based oils for oilplaning. Squalane, argan oil, and jojoba oil are a few popular choices that check all the boxes​.

Squalane (derived from olives or sugarcane usually) is ultra-light, won’t clog pores, and mimics skin’s natural oils – great for all skin types, including oily and acne-prone. 

Argan oil is rich in vitamin E and fatty acids, nourishing the skin while still being relatively lightweight. 

Jojoba oil is another favorite because it’s very similar to our skin’s sebum; it moisturizes without clogging and even has a bit of healing, anti-inflammatory property.

You can use these oils on their own for oilplaning, or even blends formulated for facial shaving. 

The key is to avoid heavy, pore-clogging oils like pure coconut oil or greasy mineral oils – those might leave a residue or trigger breakouts after. 

The trend for high-quality dermaplaning oils has grown so much that some brands, like Make My Shave, now offer dedicated dermaplaning oils.

These are facial oils specifically made to use pre-shave, often with added soothing ingredients. (Think anti-redness botanicals or antioxidants to protect that fresh skin.) 

Make My Shave’s NEW Dermaplaning Facial Oil (launching 2 April), for instance, is formulated to provide the perfect lightweight slip and skin nourishment for oilplaning at home – making the process easier and your skin softer. 

It’s packed with nourishing natural oils and designed to act as a protective barrier, much like a shaving cream would, but in a way that’s tailored for the delicate facial skin. 

More Details Coming Soon... 

Using a purpose-made oil can take the guesswork out of it, especially if you’re nervous about choosing the wrong oil. Of course, your trusty rosehip oil, marula oil, or a simple hyaluronic acid serum under the blade can also do the trick if they work well with your skin.

Pro Oilplaning tip: Always do a patch test with any new oil if you have sensitive or acne-prone skin. Apply a little to your cheek or jaw a day before and see how your skin reacts. And remember, whichever oil you choose, use just enough to lightly coat the skin – excess oil could make the blade slip unpredictably. A thin layer is all you need for a smooth shave and a happy face.

Embrace the Glow – You’ve Got This!

Oilplaning at home is an accessible beauty ritual that can leave you with that coveted post-facial glow on your own terms. With a steady hand and the right facial oil, you can achieve smoother, brighter skin in a matter of minutes, all while pampering yourself with a spa-like experience. 

The rise of oilplaning at home is a testament to how a small tweak – simply adding oil – can make a big difference in results and skin comfort. It’s gentle enough for those of us who normally shy away from exfoliation, yet effective enough that even beauty pros are fans.

As you incorporate oilplaning into your routine, you’ll likely notice your makeup sitting better and your skincare performing stronger, not to mention the confidence that comes with a fresh, fuzz-free face. 

And perhaps the best part is the empowerment of doing it yourself: at-home treatments like this put the control in your hands (literally), so you can achieve salon-worthy results whenever you feel your skin needs a pick-me-up.

Glowing, smooth skin no longer requires an expensive appointment – it might be as simple as a little oil and a gentle shave in your bathroom. 

So go ahead and give oilplaning a try. Your complexion will be singing, and that dewy, smooth finish (plus the joy of no more peach fuzz!) will make you wonder how you ever did without this skincare secret. 

Here’s to mastering oilplaning at home and unlocking a new level of radiance, one gentle stroke at a time!