One Simple Tweak Can Help You Reap The Benefits Of Face Shaving (Even With Sensitive Skin)

Dermaplaning has taken over the beauty world as the newest form of self-care. You may have seen this popular face-shaving method featured on TikTok where beauty influencers and dermatologists alike are raving about the benefits of dermaplaning the skin, which leaves your face smooth and flawless. Dermaplaning has become the preferred method for removing facial hair as it exfoliates the skin and leaves a flawless base for applying makeup. This method uses a thin razor blade to exfoliate the top layer of your skin which removes dead skin cells and small hairs (via Healthline). Compared to other facial hair removal options such as waxing, threading, and laser, dermaplaning has the benefit of being both affordable and convenient as you can easily shave your face at home. 

For those with sensitive skin, however, dermaplaning may not be the safest option as shaving the face may lead to irritation, breakouts, inflammation, or even tearing. Thankfully, there's a way to remove peach fuzz and dead skin cells without irritating the skin. Oilplaning is the safer alternative to dermaplaning and it's perfect for people with dry or sensitive skin. Here's how you can oilplane at home to remove facial hair while managing sensitivity.

How does oilplaning compare to regular dermaplaning? Both methods require a thin razor blade that's specifically designed for shaving delicate skin. The key difference between these two shaving methods, however, is the use of face oil. Applying oil to your face before shaving not only makes it easier for the razor to glide across the skin but also prevents your skin from drying out. Exfoliating the skin can strip the oils from the surface of your skin and leave it dry, which is why using oil can counteract any dryness and, thereby, reduce irritation, according to Healthline.

Although oilplaning is a great alternative to dermaplaning for sensitive skin, it is not recommended for everyone. Specifically, you should avoid both oilplaning and dermaplaning if you have active acne or have acne-prone skin. You should also skip oilplaning if you have certain skin conditions such as rosacea, eczema, or psoriasis as shaving the skin can aggravate symptoms, per Healthline. You should also be cautious while shaving if you have moles or skin tags, or if you are prone to cold sores (via Healthline). In this case, you should consult a dermatologist who may recommend safer alternatives.

Before you get started, you want to have the proper tools on hand, including a high-quality razor and face oil. Not all razors are safe to use on the face, so look for face razors similar to Schick Hydro Silk Touch-Up which are safe on delicate skin. Next, choose a face oil that is nourishing and non-comedogenic, such as jojoba or squalene oil (via Skincare Lab).

The first step to oilplaning involves cleansing your face to remove oil, makeup, and other impurities. After cleansing, gently slather on your face oil to increase glide and protect your skin barrier. Tilt your razor at a 45-degree angle before gently sliding the dermaplaning tool across a small patch of skin in downward strokes, making sure to shave with the grain of your hair, per Curology. You want to pull your skin taut while shaving to avoid nicks or micro-tears. Continue shaving your face with short and gentle strokes, while habitually swiping the dead skin cells and hair on a tissue or cotton pad to keep the blade clean in between shaving. Follow up with a hydrating serum, barrier repair cream, and SPF to protect the skin and speed healing.