What is Dermaplaning & Oilplaning?

A proper at-home routine should always include one or several products that promote exfoliation. Whether that’s lactic acid in your facial cleanser or retinol, routine exfoliation is a must for the majority of skin types. This is because our cell turnover can get “stuck” (build up of dead cells) or sluggish (cell turnover slows down with aging).  Using chemical or physical exfoliators speeds the cell turnover back up, so that we can have a smoother texture to our skin, and so other products can be more effective. Think about all the good products you use being wasted on layers of dead skin build up versus being absorbed into live skin once redundant layers are removed. 
 
When it comes to professional treatments, aestheticians have access to a variety of “professional use only” products, instruments, knowledge and education which allow them to provide advanced treatments. Queue the practice of dermaplaning and oilplaning.
 

What is Dermaplaning & Oilplaning?

Dermaplaning and oilplaning are the professional practices of using a surgical scalpel to remove three weeks worth of dead skin build up and vellus hair, otherwise known as peach fuzz. Different than chemical exfoliation, dermaplaning allows for an even physical exfoliation all across the facial region and neck. While a surgical scalpel may sound intimidating at first, in the hands of a skilled professional this is the absolute best professional exfoliation treatment. The smooth and buttery post-treatment feeling is addictive! I don’t know anyone who has tried Dermaplaning and not come back again and again for more!

How are Dermplaning & Oilplaning Treatments Performed?

We’ll start with a double cleanse to ensure we’re working with a clean canvas. Your first cleanse will break down surface oil, sweat, makeup, and sunscreen. Following your first cleanse, we’ll go in for a second cleanse that goes in deeper that removes impurities out of the pores. To prep for the dermaplane I’ll apply an alcohol based solution that starts the separation process of the live cells and the dead cells on the epidermis. This allows me to have much more access to providing the most thorough exfoliation. Once the solution is applied, I’ll work section by section throughout your facial region to provide even exfoliation. After the treatment is performed, I love to follow with an enzyme mask such as Regenzyme by AnteAge. Every Dermaplaning facial should of course end with sun protection… (I love this one by Mesoprotech).

What’s the Difference Between Dermaplaning and Oilplaning?

Dermaplaning focuses on an exfoliation that is performed while skin is dry, allowing for the best removal of dead cells, while oilplaning incorporates an oil barrier to the treatment to nourish the skin and provide comfort and deep moisturization. Using an oil allows for a seamless slip that creates a glide across the skin.  I love to use Saint Jane Luxury Beauty Serum in my treatments as my Oilplaning oil of choice.  Oilplaning is a great option for skin types that are a bit more sensitive and dry.

What Does Post Treatment Care Look Like?

There is no downtime with a dermaplaning or oilplaning treatment, so you’ll be able to resume your normal daily activities as usual. I recommend you avoid sweating and wearing makeup the same day as your Dermaplaning treatment.
 

Dermaplaning Myths vs. Truths

Myth:

Will dermaplaning make my hair grow back thicker or darker?

 

Truth:

It's simply biologically impossible for hair to become thicker or darker because of removal. The structure of the hair cannot be changed by shaving it off.

Myth:

Is Dermaplaning painful?

Truth:

If done correctly dermaplaning should actually feel pleasant. Some people say it tickles or feels like a gentle brushing sensation.

Myth:

Will dermaplaning make me break out?

Truth:

Dermaplaning will not make you break out if done correctly. Vellus hair on the face can actually trap and hold bacteria, leading to breakouts. Removing the hair prevents bacteria and dead skin cells from building up and clogging the pores. So you can tell your patients that it actually does the opposite, it helps prevent breakouts.

Myth:

Is dermaplaning too harsh for sensitive skin?

Truth:

Dermaplaning is actually one of the least invasive ways to manually exfoliate the skin, and the most gentle way to remove facial hair. It's ideal for clients with skin too sensitive to tolerate peels or abrasion pads. For patients with extremely sensitive skin, I like to Oilplane.

Dermaplaning & Oilplaning For Skin As Smooth As Butter

If you're in the Greater Los Angeles area and ready to book your dermaplane or oilplane treatment with me, click here to get your appointment on the books! If you're a fellow aesthetician ready to uplevel and refine your dermaplaning and oilplaning techniques, check out my Online Dermaplaning & Oilplaning Course. As always, I'm here with any questions you may have, so don't hesitate to reach out.