Best face oils for your skin

Do you think it’s time to say goodbye to conventional moisturizers and embrace face oils? Face oils have a natural ability to hydrate and nourish a variety of skin types, but it is important to know which facial oil is the right one for you. I have switched over to using facial oils in my skin care regime along with a super light serum called Serum Absolut by Daughter Earth. After a long of hits and misses, I zeroed into a few best oils for skin.

Let me share my skin type; hyperpigmented, freckles, uneven skin tone and stressed is what I would describe my skin type mainly because of an erratic work schedule, stress that goes unnoticed and the years of chemical damage that I had chosen to inflict on my skin. In this post let me share some of the best face oils for your skin.

But first, let’s tackle some of the questions you may have before you start using face oils for skin. Here are some basic questions that people have when they start using face oils for skin.

Do face oils leave your skin looking greasy?

If you applied too much of it, yes it will leave your face looking oily. But, if you chose to use the right amount, no face oils won’t leave your face oily. And nor do they cause a breakout or acne. Look up the ingredients that make up a face oil; polyphenols, fatty acids, and antioxidants; these help you restore your skin, leaving it nourished and hydrated.

How do you use face oils?

Face oils can be used in two ways: one you leave it on the skin to absorb and second, you let it stay on the face for a few hours and wipe off with a towel soaked in warm water. Using a face oil is totally dependent on your skin type. If you have oily, sensitive or acne prone skin, you may just need to apply it on the face and neck and wipe it off after an hour or two. For those with dry skin, you can let it soak in your skin overnight.

MUST READ: FACE OILS OR FACE CREAMS

What are the benefits of using face oils?

Some of the major benefits of using facial oils are:

1. Provides hydration to the skin and keeps it nourished.
2. Hydration tackles the dryness of the skin.
3. Keeps the skin soft, supple and dewy.
4. Most facial oils can also target specific skin concerns that range from acne, uneven skin tone, pigmentation and more.
5. Face oils are naturally rich with vitamins, minerals and essential fatty acids  that can help to tone the skin and get rid of uneven skin tone and blemishes.

Best face oils for your skin

Whether you are looking to even your skin tone or just want your skin to look its best, or better still want your skin to look nourished and hydrated, read on to find the best oils for your skin. The good part is that you can also use these oils for your hair concerns. As a cautionary note, it is always advisable to get to the root of your skin and hair concerns. Please consult with your GP before you choose any of these oils for yourself.

Argan oil

Referred to as “liquid gold”, argan oil is extracted from nuts of the Moroccan argan tree. It works for all skin types and is a soothing and calming moisturizer.

What does it contain:

Vitamin E, phenols, carotenes, squalene, antioxidants, and essential fatty acids. It is light, easy absorbing, does not clog pores, which makes it good enough to use even for acne prone skin. With its anti-oxidant properties, it also helps to improve the skin’s elasticity by fending off free radical damage. What you get is skin that is highly nourished, hydrayed and radiant.

How to use:

For Skin:
Use a very thin layer under your make up base if you use make up. I am not a make up person and the only thing that I use once in a while is an organic mousse concealer. I mix a dash of the concealer with one drop of the oil and use upward strokes to blend it. When using it on its own, 2-3 drops (depending on the weather) is what I need to pamper my skin. I use light upward strokes to massage my neck and face for a minute or two. If you are looking for that extra hydration, leave on the oil at night to let the magic work. You can also use it as a massage oil for your skin. I have been following a video by Vasudha Rai and I try to incorporate this massage technique at least twice a week in my skin care routine. Pure argan oil is what I use!

For Hair:
Take a few drops of the oil and mix it with an essential oil of your choice or use it as is. For dandruff prone scalp and an itchy scalp you can add a drop or two of peppermint essential oil or tea tree essential oil. To soothe your scalp add a drop or two of lavender essential oil.

For Nails:
Apply on the cuticles and massage for a few minutes. Leave it on for 30 minutes and wipe off with a soft wash cloth soaked in warm water.

Argan Oils I recommend

Juicy Chemistry
Soap Square
Anveya Essentials

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Head to the Soap Square website to buy this. Use the coupon code Pratibha10 to get a flat 10% off on all your purchases.

*Comedogenic Rating – 0

Coconut oil

One of the most versatile oils that has multiple uses: cooking, health and wellness, skin and hair care to name a few. Coconut oil, or copra oil, is an edible oil extracted from the kernel or meat of mature coconuts harvested from the coconut palm (Cocos nucifera). Coconut oil is extracted by pressing the fat from coconut meat. Over the past few years this oil has gained immense popularity because of its therapeutic benefits as well. Because of its high saturated fat content, it is slow to oxidize and, thus, resistant to rancidification, lasting up to six months at 24 °C (75 °F) without spoiling. Coconut oil’s uses extend far beyond the kitchen; it is a complete all rounder when it comes to home remedies! Ayurveda recommends using coconut oil for alleviate a lot issues – ranging from skin and hair care to healthy living.

What does it contain:

Vitamin E! It has loads of Vitamin E that makes it the perfect skin moisturizer for dry skin. The presence of fatty acids allows you to use it as a after shower moisturizer or you can also apply it on dry skin to nourish parched skin. The fatty acids act like a barrier on the skin, keeping moisture locked in. Due to its antibacterial and antifungal properties it helps to protect your skin. Add this oil to your skin care routine in winters to keep your skin soft and supple. Want some fragrance? Add some soothing lavender essential oil or rose essential oil to smell divine! Since it has a higher comedogenic rating, its best used for dry skin only. Coconut oil is not recommended for people with oily skin and skin that is prone to breakouts.

How to use:

For Skin :
Coconut oil is great for moisturization, even for really dry areas like elbows, knees and feet. Applying coconut oil all over the body before a warm bath results in super soft and supple skin. Did you know that coconut oil can be used as a make-up remover especially if you use eyeliner, mascara and eye shadow? It removes the make-up very gently so you don’t have to rub the delicate area around the eyes.

For Body Massage :
Nothing beats a good massage in relieving those tired muscles and knots in your body! You can use plain coconut oil, or mix it up with an essential oil for a smooth, relaxing massage. I love to mix a few drops of lavender and peppermint essential oils when I am doing my massage.

For Hair:
Is your hair going dry and frizzy in high heat and humidity? Battling dandruff? There is always coconut oil to the rescue! Not only is it a superb conditioner, but it also helps to keep your hair nourished. I swear by the coconut oil therapy I indulge in at least once a month. It is always good to warm the oil in a copper vessel when you want to massage your hair and scalp.

Diaper Rash:
Most babies have diaper rash at some point in their lives. It doesn’t matter if you use use cloth or the disposable diapers. Choose a natural and chemical-free diaper balm for your little one, and if you don’t have access to it, use pure coconut oil. A very little goes a long way too!

*Comedogenic Rating – 4

Coconut Oils I suggest

Omved Coconut Oil

Read more:
25 benefits of coconut oil
Coconut oil therapy for your hair

Jojoba oil

Jojoba oil is derived from the cold pressing of the seeds of Jojoba nut. It can be used for skin disorders that include acne to psoriasis or even soothe a sunburn. The terms “jojoba oil” and “jojoba wax” are often used interchangeably because the wax visually appears to be a mobile oil, but as a wax it is composed almost entirely (~97%) of mono-esters of long-chain fatty acids and alcohols (wax ester), accompanied by only a tiny fraction of triglyceride esters.

What does it contain:

This therapeutic grade oil mainly consists of Gadoleic Acid (Eicosenoic Acid), Erucic Acid, Oleic Acid, Palmitic Acid, Palmitoleic Acid, Stearic Acid, Behenic Acid, Vitamin E, and Vitamin B Complex.
(Source: Juicy Chemistry website). It also contains beneficial minerals and nutrients that works for skin and hair issues.

How to use:

Skin Care:
When used in skin care, Jojoba oil helps to lock in the moisture of the skin to keep it looking nourished and hydrated. You can use it as a body moisturizer as well if you have sensitive skin. If you have oily skin, use just a drop or two of the jojoba oil. For those with oily skin, is best when used not more than thrice a week. When used regularly it can help to even your skin tone. It can be used as a complete skin moisturizer if your have sensitive skin.

Hair Care:
Helps combat dandruff and promote healthy hair. It is great to reduce an itchy scalp. All of the fatty acids and natural alcohols found in jojoba oil can provide the much-needed nutrition to your hair. With high levels of Vitamins B and E, the oil can help stimulate hair growth while providing antioxidant protection.

Comedogenic Rating – 2
Jojoba Face Oils I recommend

Juicy Chemistry Jojoba Carrier Oil
SoapSquare Jojoba Carrier Oil
Anveya Essentials Jojoba Oil
Rouh Jojoba Oil

Rosehip seed oil

Known as a powerful anti-aging oil, when used regularly rosehip oil helps to combat skin issues that range from reducing wrinkles to promoting a supple and nourished skin. Known to fight free radical damage, when massaged on the skin, it helps to restore elasticity and reduce the appearance of scars. It’s extracted via a cold-press method from the seeds of a specific rose variety, predominantly grown in Chile.

What does it contain:

Rosehip oil is packed with essential fatty acids and contains vitamins E, C, D, and beta carotene. Chock-full of goodness, it helps to protect and hydrate skin, fight free radical damage, and reduce wrinkles. But that’s not all! The vitamins and antioxidants rejuvenate the skin to restore elasticity, help to correct dark spots, and reduce the appearance of scars.

How to use:

Skin Care:
Considered a dry oil, rosehip oil has excellent nourishing properties and it absorbs into the skin completely without giving it an oily or a greasy look. It can be used in conjunction with other oils or lotions as an intensive moisturizing and antiaging treatment. I mix a few drops of the marula oil with my serum and use it as a leave in night oil, especially in the winters to keep my skin hydrated and nourished all night long.

Hair Care:
You may apply rosehip oil directly to your hair. Some people prefer warming the oil beforehand, but be sure to test it before applying to make sure it’s not hot. Massage the oil throughout your hair, making sure that you cover each strand. Place a shower cap over your hair, and leave it on for up to 30 minutes. Regular use of rosehip oil on hair ensures an itch free scalp and moisturizes your hair. The soothing oil is also ideal for calming itchy, dry or irritated skin and reducing scalp conditions such as dandruff.

Rosehip Face Oils I recommend

Juicy Chemistry Rosehip Carrier Oil
Soap Square Rosehip Carrier Oil
Anveya Essentials Rosehip Carrier Oil
Deve Herbs Rosehip Carrier Oil

Marula oil

Marula oil is high in antioxidants, essential fatty acids, and amino acids. It’s widely used as an ingredient in skin care products, and appears to be beneficial for oily, acne-prone, dry, and aging skin. It’s also effective at keeping hair soft, supple, and moisturized. This multipurpose oil is perfect to use for skin, hair, and nails.

How to use:

Skin Care:
Marula contains 60 percent more antioxidants than most other face oils because it is rich in fatty acids. It helps to protect the skin against aging and skin damage. Marula oil is rich in antimicrobial properties and soothes irritated or acne-prone skin. You can use it as a base before you apply makeup or mix it with the foundation to get a luminous sheen to the skin.

Hair care
Marula oil is a lightweight oil and is fast absorbing. It leaves a satin finish on your strands, without making it look greasy or weighing down your style. It is rich in vitamin C and E, the oil helps to nourish nd moisturize the hair. This helps repair damaged hair and prevents split ends. Massaging your hair regularly with marula oil will also promote a healthy scalp.

Marula Face oils I recommend

Juicy Chemistry Marula Oil

Face oils are super light and easy to absorb on the skin and they are not greasy. That is a myth to bust! It is no longer the best beauty secret either. Intensely hydrating and nourishing facial oils can replace your conventional moisturizer. When you choose a facial oil, opt for an eco-certified and organic face oil. These are some of the best oils for your skin that can work in many ways. So next time you’re shopping for new skin care products, why not try something different?

Comedogenic Rating
(0 – Not likely to clog pores; 1 – Low; 2 – Moderately Low; 3 – Moderate; 4 – Fairly High; 5 – High)

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