Everything You Need to Know About Oils, According to these 3 Experts

FAQs About : FACE

Expert: DEBANI GUHA, NATIONAL TRAINER, LEARNING AND DEVELOPMENT, L’OCCITANE INDIA

Q: What are the benefits of using facial oils?

A: Facial oils are enriched with essential nutrients, which keep the skin supple and glowing. And they also help maintain the moisture level of the skin.

Q: When is the best time to apply oil?

A: Night is the best time to apply effective skincare products, and oils can really help regenerate the natural oil production in our body.

Q: Can facial oils be layered with other products?

A:Yes, they can be layered with day/night creams, and even with your regular foundation (for a dewy finish). They help enhance the effect of any creams applied after, as their molecules soak in the product better.

Q: But why are they so expensive?

A: Oils are made of plants and natural oils, and these botanical extracts are free of chemicals. That’s why they tend to be a little expensive.

Q: Any ingredients we should stay clear of ?

A: Ingredients like parabens, aluminium salt, silicon, and phthalates should be avoided on the face.

Q: Any particular skin type that should avoid using facial oil?

A: If you have sensitive skin, then avoid fragrant oils on the face, as they can clog pores and trigger whiteheads.

 

 

 FAQs About: HAIR

Expert : SHIKHEE AGRAWAL EXPERT, THE BODY SHOP

Q: What ingredients should we watch out for in a hair oil?

A: For taming split ends, look out for argan oil—it also makes your hair smoother and shinier. For damaged hair, you can use coconut oil as it deeply nourishes the mane.  

Q: What’s the most effective way to apply hair oil?

A: Hair oils can be used pre-shampoo, as an overnight treatment or for head massages. For a head massage, heat the oil slightly, so that your scalp absorbs it better. You can even use a hot towel head wrap for better absorption.

Q: Any tips for applying hair oil?

A: Partitions while oiling your hair—this will help your scalp absorb it properly, and rub oil on the roots to nourish them. Also, avoid washing hair right after oiling.

Q: Should people with different hair types go for different kinds of oils?

A: Yes, if your hair is on the thinner side then pick light oils that promote cell growth and shine. These oils won’t weigh down your strands. For coloured hair, look for oils that offer nourishment and deep conditioning. For dry hair, one should go for nourishing oils (like argan oil, as it’s the perfect antidote for dry ends).  

Q: Can using too much oil lead to hairfall?

A: Not really. But yes, to wash off excess oil, you’d need to use more shampoo, and that, in turn, can cause hairfall.
 

 

FAQs About: BODY

Expert: IPSITA CHATTERJEE SENIOR MANAGER, TRAINING & BRAND COMMUNICATION, FOREST ESSENTIALS​

Q: Is there an ideal season for body oils?

A: Bath and body oils can be used in all seasons. They counteract dry skin (due to constant air conditioning) in the summer, and do wonders for dehydrated skin in the winter. The best time to use body oil is right after a bath. As you cleanse and exfoliate, the pores open up and applying the oil right then helps it penetrate better, and moisturise the skin.

Q: Is it true that oils work better when applied to wet skin?

A:Yes, after showering when the skin is moist with a thin layer of water. The oil helps to retain moisture. After applying the oil on the body, wait for a few minutes, and wipe the excess off with a towel.

Q: What are the pros of using a body oil over a moisturiser?

A: When it comes to dry skin, body lotions help to bring back the moisture on the skin. While body oils get absorbed deeply, nourishing the skin from within. Oils are also enriched with nutrients that have a higher concentration of antioxidants and vitamins, which helps in maintaining the moisture barrier and make skin less prone to dryness.

Q: What is the best way to apply body oil?

A:You can apply a body oil as is, or heat it up. But remember, never expose the oil to direct heat in order to retain its nutritional value. Use a double-boiler instead.

Q:Any ingredients in body oils that we should be wary of?

A:Make sure your body oil is free of parabens, chemical preservatives, synthetic scents, artificial colours, and petroleum oils.