Face oils often divide a room. Some people avoid them with a barge pole in fear of breaking out, while others say they’re responsible for their skin’s smooth texture, and healthy glow. I’m the latter.
Are face oils a part of your skincare routine?
— Escentual (@escentual) September 16, 2020
Face oils sometimes get a bad rep. One they don’t deserve. I’m here to explain that facial oils can, and do work for every skin type; you just need to find the right one. So forget what you’ve heard, face oils won’t break you out, or make your skin oilier – they’re soon to become the skincare step you wish you’d started using sooner.
What is a Face Oil?
Face oils tend to be plant-based, and are also emollients, just like moisturisers. The difference is, moisturisers penetrate deep down, while oils sit on the top layers of skin, creating a barrier of protection and improving the skin’s texture. Although face oils don’t have the hydrating powers of a moisturiser, they’re essential because your skin cells drink water but not oil; this means the oils will remain to protect and nourish. Depending on the oil you choose – jojoba, marula, squalane etc. – the oil may offer additional benefits too.
How do I use a Face Oil?
You can use face oil morning and night, however many people prefer to use them at night due to their rich texture. You can apply directly to your face and neck, or mix into your moisturiser – the choice is yours!
1. Best Face for Oily Skin
The common misconception about face oils is that they’ll break you out, or make you oilier; this isn’t true. The truth is, many oils will help balance your complexion. The trick is, find the right one. You’ll want to choose a lightweight oil; jojoba is a great choice as it’s breathable, and breaks down sebum, or opt for the IT-ingredient of the moment, squalane; this saturated oil is non-comedogenic, and has anti-inflammatory benefits.
My Recommendation: The Ordinary 100% Plant-Derived Squalane
Squalane is very compatible with the natural oils found in our skin, which means skin absorbs it with ease. For that reason, The Ordinary 100% Plant-Derived Squalane is my suggestion for oily, acne-prone skin. The formula isn’t greasy thanks to its light molecular weight, and won’t block your pores; instead, the high emollient formula helps keep skin hydrated, and it’ll also help other ingredients absorb into the skin too – win, win!
2. Best Face Oil for Dry Skin
If you have a dry skin type, you’re probably using an oil in your routine already. But are you using the right one? Yes, even dry skin has a face oil match. Because dry skin’s are lacking oil, it’s crucial to choose an oil rich in fatty acids – jojoba will be too light for you. Dry skin types can also look and feel irritated so oils with additional soothing benefits – lavender, marula, sandalwood etc. – are good to look out for too.
My Recommendation: Clarins Santal Face Treatment Oil
Clarins Santal is one of the best-selling face oils for dry skin for good reason. What’s special about this facial oil – aside from its lavish texture, 100% plant formula, and antioxidant-rich formula – is the addition of sandalwood extract; this helps to nourish dry skin, while reducing redness and flakiness.
3. Best Face Oil for Sensitive Skin
Face oils are especially suitable for sensitive skin as they help create a barrier on the skin. For your reactive skin type, you’ll want a formula tailored to soothing, calming and comforting your complexion. Moringa oil, aloe vera oil are top candidates, and it’s usually best to avoid essential oils unless it’s one of the below…
My Recommendation: Decleor Aromessence Rose d’Orient Organic Soothing Comfort Oil Serum
Chamomile, damask rose, and germanium are the star soothers in the Decleor Aromessence Rose D’Orient Oil. Typically, essential oils are a no-go for hypersensitive skin, but this trio is the exception as they’re great for reducing redness and relieving irritation. The formula won’t just leave your skin calm either, the oil has aromatherapy benefits, which will help relax your mind – one inhale of the scent is a great scent reliever!
4. Best Face Oil for Dehydrated & Normal Skin
Dehydrated skin lacks water. So why use oil I hear you say? Well, oils lock moisture into the skin; it’s as simple as that! If your skin is dehydrated, incorporate an oil into your evening routine as a minimum.
My Recommendation: The Ordinary “”B”” Oil
B Oil is the all-rounder oil choice for all skin types in my opinion, but it’s also excellent for dehydrated skin. The formula isn’t one oil, it’s a cocktail. One of the unique ingredients worth shouting about is bisabolol, a component of chamomile essential oil, which promotes healing and helps your other skincare formulas penetrate deep into skin.
