Dermaplaning with Oil: Should You Do It? Best Oils & How-To Guide
Dermaplaning is usually done on dry skin, but some people prefer using oil to make the process gentler. If you have dry or sensitive skin, applying oil first can help reduce irritation and create a smoother glide for the blade. It also helps lock in moisture, leaving your skin feeling soft instead of tight or over-exfoliated.
So, is dermaplaning better with or without oil? That depends on your skin type and what works best for you. Some find that oil makes the process more comfortable, while others feel that dry dermaplaning gives a closer exfoliation.
There are even dermaplaning oils made specifically for this, like this one on Amazon, but you don’t need a dedicated product. Many common skincare oils work just as well—chances are, you already have one that’s perfect for the job.
Let’s go over the benefits, the best oils to use, and how to do dermaplaning with oil the right way.
Why Dermaplaning with Oil Might Be a Good Idea
If dry dermaplaning leaves your skin feeling irritated or tight, adding oil can make the process gentler without sacrificing results.
Here are the key benefits of using oil for dermaplaning:
- Less irritation – Creates a protective barrier between the blade and your skin, making the process gentler, especially for sensitive skin.
- Smoother glide – Reduces friction, lowering the risk of nicks and making dermaplaning easier.
- Prevents dryness – Helps retain moisture, so your skin doesn’t feel tight or over-exfoliated afterward.
- Boosts product absorption – Allows serums and moisturizers to penetrate deeper for better results.
If your skin is dry, sensitive, or easily irritated, dermaplaning with oil might be the better choice. Now, let’s go over which oils work best—and which ones to avoid.
Best Oils for Dermaplaning (and Which One is Right for You?)
Choosing the right oil for dermaplaning makes all the difference. Some oils help the blade glide smoothly without clogging pores, while others might be too heavy or irritating. Below are the best oils based on skin type, along with a quick explanation of why they work well.
For Sensitive Skin: Gentle Oils That Won’t Irritate
1. Jojoba Oil – A Safe Bet for Most Skin Types
Jojoba oil is one of the best options for dermaplaning because it’s lightweight, non-greasy, and mimics the skin’s natural oils. It provides just enough slip for the blade while soothing sensitive skin. Plus, it’s non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog pores or cause breakouts.
2. Squalane Oil – Lightweight and Soothing
Squalane is another excellent choice for sensitive skin. It absorbs quickly, provides hydration without heaviness, and has a silky texture that allows for effortless dermaplaning. It also has anti-inflammatory properties, making it a great option for those prone to redness or irritation.
3. Argan Oil – Moisturizing Without Feeling Too Heavy
Argan oil is rich in antioxidants and fatty acids, helping to calm redness and keep the skin balanced. It’s hydrating but not overly greasy, making it a good choice if you want moisture without clogging pores.
For Oily or Acne-Prone Skin: Lightweight Oils That Won’t Clog Pores
1. Squalane Oil – Non-Comedogenic and Fast-Absorbing
Squalane is a top pick for oily and acne-prone skin because it hydrates without leaving a greasy residue. Unlike heavier oils, it won’t clog pores, making it one of the safest choices.
2. Jojoba Oil – A Great Choice for Oily Skin Too
Jojoba oil is technically a wax ester rather than an oil, which means it balances sebum production rather than adding more oil to the skin. It’s lightweight, absorbs quickly, and won’t contribute to breakouts.
3. Grapeseed Oil – A Hidden Gem for Acne-Prone Skin
Grapeseed oil is antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and lightweight, making it a great choice for those with oily skin. It helps tighten pores while adding just enough hydration to prevent over-drying.
For Dry Skin: Extra Hydration Without the Greasy Feel
1. Vitamin E Oil – Deeply Nourishing but Best Mixed with a Lighter Oil
Vitamin E is great for repairing and hydrating dry skin, but it’s thick and heavy on its own. Mixing a few drops with a lighter oil like jojoba or squalane makes it easier to apply for dermaplaning.
2. Rosehip Oil – Hydrating with Skin-Repairing Benefits
Rosehip oil is packed with vitamins A and C, which help brighten skin and support collagen production. It’s deeply hydrating but still absorbs well, making it one of the best choices for dry skin.
3. Argan Oil – Hydration Without Clogging Pores
Argan oil is rich in essential fatty acids and absorbs better than heavier oils like coconut or olive oil. It nourishes dry skin while remaining lightweight enough for dermaplaning.
4. Marula Oil – A Luxurious Option for Extra Hydration
Marula oil is another excellent pick for dry skin. It’s lightweight yet deeply moisturizing and absorbs quickly, preventing that greasy after-feel.
For Combination Skin: Balanced Oils That Work for Both Dry and Oily Areas
1. Jojoba Oil – Helps Balance Oil Production
Since jojoba oil closely mimics natural sebum, it’s ideal for balancing combination skin—hydrating dry patches without making oily areas greasier.
2. Squalane Oil – Lightweight and Non-Greasy
Squalane works well for combination skin because it hydrates without feeling heavy. It helps maintain moisture without making oily areas feel greasy.
3. Marula Oil – A Luxurious Option for Extra Hydration
Marula oil is lightweight yet deeply moisturizing. It works well for hydrating dry patches while still being light enough for oily areas.
Quick Guide: Best Oils for Dermaplaning
| Oil | Best For | Comedogenic? | Absorption | Fragrance-Free? | Downside |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jojoba Oil | Oily, sensitive, combination | No | Fast | Yes | None |
| Squalane Oil | All skin types | No | Fast | Yes | None |
| Argan Oil | Dry, sensitive, combination | Low | Medium | Yes | None |
| Vitamin E Oil | Dry, healing | High (thick) | Slow | Yes | Best mixed with a lighter oil |
| Rosehip Oil | Dry, aging | Low | Medium | Yes | Can be pricey |
| Marula Oil | Dry, combination | Low | Medium | Yes | Some may find it a bit rich |
| Grapeseed Oil | Oily, acne-prone | Low | Fast | Yes | None |
| Bio Oil | Dry (not ideal for acne-prone or sensitive skin) | Medium | Medium | No (contains fragrance) | Contains fragrance & mineral oil |
| Coconut Oil | Dry (but clogs pores) | High | Slow | Yes | Highly comedogenic |
| Olive Oil | Dry (too heavy) | High | Very Slow | Yes | Greasy, slow to absorb |
| Baby Oil | None (not recommended) | High | Slow | No | Contains synthetic additives |
| Castor Oil | None (too thick) | High | Very Slow | Yes | Sticky, difficult to work with |
Oils to Avoid for Dermaplaning (Or Use with Caution)
Not all oils are suitable for dermaplaning. Some are too thick, pore-clogging (comedogenic), or contain ingredients that could cause irritation. While a few might work for certain skin types, they’re generally not the best choice.
🚫 Coconut Oil – A controversial pick
Coconut oil is deeply moisturizing, which is why some people use it for dermaplaning dry skin. However, it’s also highly comedogenic (rated 4 out of 5), meaning it can easily clog pores and lead to breakouts. If you have acne-prone or sensitive skin, it’s best to avoid it. If your skin is very dry and non-acne-prone, you could try it, but proceed with caution.
🚫 Olive Oil – Too heavy and greasy
Olive oil takes a long time to absorb and can leave a film on the skin, making it a poor choice for dermaplaning. It’s also comedogenic, meaning it can trap debris and bacteria, leading to breakouts.
🚫 Baby Oil – Contains synthetic ingredients and fragrance
While baby oil provides slip, it’s made with mineral oil and added fragrances, which can cause irritation, especially for sensitive skin.
🚫 Castor Oil – Too thick and sticky
Castor oil has anti-inflammatory benefits, but it’s extremely thick and sticky, making it hard for a dermaplaning blade to glide smoothly. It also doesn’t absorb well.
🚫 Fragranced Oils (Including Some Face Oils) – Can cause irritation
Oils with added fragrance—even if they’re labeled as “face oils”—can be irritating, especially for sensitive or reactive skin. It’s best to stick to fragrance-free, natural oils.
🚫 Petroleum-Based Oils (Mineral Oil, Vaseline, etc.) – Too occlusive
Petroleum-based oils create a thick barrier on the skin, preventing the blade from moving smoothly. They also trap debris and sweat, which isn’t ideal for exfoliation.
The Bottom Line
While coconut oil can work for some people with very dry, resilient skin, it’s risky for most due to its pore-clogging nature. If you’re looking for a safer option for dry skin, rosehip oil, marula oil, or argan oil are better alternatives.
How to Dermaplane with Oil (Step-by-Step Guide)
If you’ve decided to try dermaplaning with oil, getting the technique right is key. The process is similar to dry dermaplaning, but the added oil helps the blade glide more smoothly, reducing friction and irritation. Here’s how to do it properly:
Step 1: Start with a Clean Face
Wash your face with a gentle cleanser to remove makeup, sunscreen, and any buildup. Your skin should be completely clean and dry before applying oil.
Step 2: Apply a Few Drops of Oil
Use a lightweight, non-comedogenic oil (like squalane or jojoba) and spread a thin, even layer across your skin. Avoid using too much—you want enough slip for the blade to glide, but not so much that the tool drags or slips.
Step 3: Hold the Blade at a 45-Degree Angle
Using a dermaplaning tool or a single-blade razor, position it at a 45-degree angle against your skin. Keep the strokes gentle—there’s no need to apply pressure.
Step 4: Use Short, Light Strokes
Hold your skin taut with one hand and gently move the blade in short, downward strokes. Start with the cheeks, then move to the jawline, chin, and forehead. Avoid going over the same area too many times to prevent irritation.
Step 5: Wipe Off the Excess
Once you’ve finished, use a soft cloth or cotton pad to wipe away the excess oil and the exfoliated skin cells. If needed, rinse with lukewarm water to remove any residue.
Step 6: Follow with Moisturizer or Serum
Since dermaplaning enhances product absorption, now is the perfect time to apply a hydrating serum or lightweight moisturizer. Look for soothing ingredients like hyaluronic acid or niacinamide to keep your skin calm and hydrated.
Dermaplaning with oil is a gentler alternative to dry dermaplaning, especially for those with sensitive or dry skin. If it’s your first time, start slow and see how your skin reacts before making it a regular part of your routine.
Is Dermaplaning with Oil Right for You?
If dry dermaplaning leaves your skin irritated, adding oil might be the fix. It helps the blade glide smoothly, reduces friction, and keeps skin feeling soft instead of stripped. The trick is using the right oil—lightweight options like squalane, jojoba, or argan oil work best, while heavier oils can clog pores.
At the end of the day, it’s all about what works for your skin. If oil makes dermaplaning feel better and your skin looks great afterward, you’ve got your answer.
Learn More About Dermaplaning:
Can You Wear Makeup After Dermaplaning?
Microdermabrasion vs. Dermaplaning: Which One Is Right for Your Skin?
Choosing Between Dermaplaning and Chemical Peel
