Jojoba, grapeseed, rosehip, and squalane oils are the top choices for dermaplaning because they provide enough slip without clogging pores.
Dermaplaning works by gently scraping off dead skin and vellus hair, but doing it dry is a recipe for nicks and irritation. The right oil creates a protective glide that lets the blade move smoothly. The wrong one can leave you with clogged pores or breakouts. Here is what to choose, what to avoid, and how to use it so you get the results you want.
What Makes an Oil Safe for Dermaplaning?
The best oil for dermaplaning is lightweight, non-comedogenic, and fragrance-free or very low fragrance. Oils with a simple ingredient list let the blade slide without greasy buildup. On the comedogenic scale — which ranks how likely an ingredient is to clog pores — safer oils like jojoba, grapeseed, and squalane score at or near zero. These hydrate without blocking pores, which matters most for anyone with oily or breakout-prone skin.
For those prone to breakouts specifically, choose an oil higher in linoleic acid and lower in oleic acid. Grapeseed oil fits this well. Heavier oils high in oleic acid can feel nourishing on dry skin but are much more likely to clog pores during a sliding treatment like dermaplaning.
Best Oils and Ones to Avoid
Jojoba oil closely mimics the skin’s natural sebum and absorbs quickly. Grapeseed oil is exceptionally light and linoleic-rich, ideal for oily skin. Rosehip oil provides fatty acids and a gentle slip, while squalane — a stabilized version of a natural skin lipid — is technically non-comedogenic and nearly weightless. All four work well. Our full list of tested facial oils for dermaplaning breaks down which brands and formulations perform best in practice.
Do not use coconut oil or heavy mineral-oil blends. Coconut oil is highly comedogenic and can leave a film that interferes with the blade’s glide. The same goes for other thick, highly fragranced oils. Stick with the lightweight options above.
How to Dermaplane With Oil
Start by cleansing your face and patting it completely dry. Apply two to three drops (or one pump) of oil in a thin, even layer across the area you plan to treat. Too little oil causes drag; too much makes the blade slide unevenly.
Using a fresh, sharp razor, hold the skin taut with one hand and make short, light downward strokes with the other. Reapply a drop of oil if your skin feels dry mid-treatment. Going over the same spot more than two or three times increases irritation risk without a better result. After finishing, rinse off the excess oil and apply a light final layer as aftercare.
Safety Precautions
Do not dermaplane over active acne, open cuts, sores, raised moles, skin tags, or irritated areas. Skip AHAs, BHAs, and scrubs for at least one week beforehand. After treatment, avoid other active ingredients, masks, and intensive treatments for at least 24 hours. Always patch-test a new oil on your inner arm or behind the ear before using it on your whole face. Use daily SPF 30 or higher after dermaplaning, because the fresh skin underneath is more vulnerable to sun damage.
Common mistakes include using a heavy or comedogenic oil, applying too little oil, reusing a dull blade (use a fresh one every time and dispose after one or two uses), dermaplaning too often, and making long or aggressive strokes. Short, steady, light strokes give you a smooth result without irritation.
FAQs
Can I use olive oil for dermaplaning?
Olive oil is comedogenic and far too heavy for dermaplaning. It will clog pores and create a sticky residue that interferes with the blade’s movement. Stick with lightweight, non-comedogenic options like jojoba or grapeseed.
Should I apply oil before or after dermaplaning?
You apply a thin layer of oil before dermaplaning to create glide and protect the skin. After the treatment, rinse off the excess and apply a small, fresh layer of the same oil as a calming aftercare step.
How often should I dermaplane with oil?
Most people dermaplane every three to four weeks, which matches the natural renewal cycle of the skin. Doing it more often increases the risk of irritation and micro-tears, even with a good oil.
References & Sources
- Dr. Park Avenue. “Is Dermaplaning Safe? Here’s What Dermatologists Want You to Know” Covers safety guidelines and best practices for in-home dermaplaning.
Mo Maruf
I created WellFizz to bridge the gap between vague wellness advice and actionable solutions. My mission is simple: to decode the research and give you practical tools you can actually use.
Beyond the data, I am a passionate traveler. I believe that stepping away from the screen to explore new environments is essential for mental clarity and physical vitality.