Facial oils have been around for a while and have been touted as the holy grail when it comes to a glazed-donut look, or particularly impartial to water-based moisturizers. There are hundreds of facial oils on the market today—some compounded with other oils (mixed together in a formula for added benefits) or singular oils like marula, jojoba, or castor oils. But, how do you know if you should be using a face oil or not? Keep reading below to learn if you need to add a facial oil to your bathroom counter lineup.
1. You have dry skin.
Face oil works well for drier skin types, and especially well if you're more sensitive and prone to reactive skin depending on the ingredients. Oils have the ability to moisturize deeply and provide a suppleness to the skin that isn't achievable with just a facial moisturizer. Although, you want to make sure your skin is hydrated prior to applying a facial oil for better deliverability and results to support retaining as much water in the skin as possible, reducing transepidermal water loss.
2. Your skin seems more dull.
As we age, our skin can often lose its natural radiance, appearing dull and lifeless. Hormonal changes, environmental factors, and lifestyle habits can all contribute to this. Facial oils are packed with nutrients and antioxidants that can help replenish the skin's natural glow. They work by deeply nourishing the skin, promoting a healthy skin barrier, and aiding in cell regeneration, which collectively bring back your skin's vibrant appearance.
3. You notice more fine lines and loss of elasticity.
The emergence of fine lines and a loss of elasticity are telltale signs of aging skin. These are largely due to decreased collagen production and reduced natural oil production in our skin. Facial oils are known for their potent anti-aging properties. They can deliver essential fatty acids and antioxidants to the skin, promoting collagen production, and providing a plumping effect. This helps to diminish the appearance of fine lines and improve skin elasticity, giving your complexion a healthy radiance.
4. You want a natural glow when wearing makeup without full coverage or use of foundation.
If you're seeking a natural, 'lit-from-within' glow without resorting to heavy makeup, facial oils can be your secret weapon. Applying a few drops of facial oil before your makeup can help create a smooth and hydrated canvas. It also adds a subtle sheen that shines through your makeup, creating a dewy, glowing finish. Plus, it helps your makeup blend better, preventing it from settling into fine lines or looking cakey
5. You live in a drier climate.
Living in a dry climate can leave your skin feeling parched and dehydrated. Low humidity levels can strip your skin of its natural oils, leaving it dry, flaky, and prone to premature aging. Incorporating a facial oil into your skincare routine can provide an extra layer of protection and hydration. These oils form a protective barrier on the skin, preventing moisture loss and defending against environmental stressors. This ensures your skin stays supple, hydrated, and healthy, regardless of the climate conditions.
There's plenty of benefits to using a facial oil, and it should earn its coveted spot in your skincare routine morning and night if you want more hydrated and moisturized skin. A side note as well, even oily skin-types should use a facial oil to help balance sebum production and to keep skin hydrated as well, contrary to belief. Of course, you want to make sure the oil is free of irritants like alcohol, synthetic fragrances, and comedogenic oils. But opt for oils that are lightweight, non-comedogenic, a.k.a, won't clog your pores, and that resemble your skin's natural sebum like Jojoba Oil or Squalane to reduce being "greasy" and feeling weighted.
