Your ultimate guide to face oils is here

There may probably be nothing quite like the luxury of that drop of facial oil and its effect on your skin (when used correctly, though). It provides exceptional nourishment, restores your skin barrier, and can even give targeted results. And if you are enticed to include facial oils in your skincare routine, we’ve got some handy tips on how to go about it. 

Oils for oily skin  

The thought of applying oil to the face can be off-putting for many people as oils are often perceived as greasy and heavy. It may sound against the grain to use oil on your skin when you are already dealing with oily skin, but using the right type of oil can help you with your oily skin. Argan oil is the perfect lightweight oil that will regulate sebum production and give a non-greasy glow.

Oils and acne 

We get it, oils and acne are not the most compatible duo because some oils can be comedogenic (causing pore blockage) and lead to more breakouts. However, it doesn’t mean you avoid facial oils altogether. Antibacterial and anti-inflammatory oils, such as perilla seed oil, are particularly good for skin prone to breakout. Known for its high content of omega-3 fatty acids, which is believed to have the ability to reduce chronic inflammation and alleviate itchiness, perilla seed oil is a fitting choice. 

Oils for summers

It's time we bust the myth that facial oils are ideal only for winters. In the scorching summer heat, our skin tends to get greasy and grimy and an increased exposure to harsh UV rays can weaken the skin's protective barrier, thus causing summer dryness. While wearing sunscreen is essential to protect your skin from the harmful rays, facial oils are the perfect tool to prevent dehydration and loss of skin moisture. Fast-absorbing, gentle oils like squalane or rosehip oils can be the new addition to your summer skincare routine.

Oils and moisturisers

Traditionally, oils were considered to be the ultimate moisturisers, but it is important to note that oils are emollients and are not supposed to replace your moisturiser, as they do not hydrate the skin. Facial oils can condition and nourish the skin, i.e. their function is retaining existing moisture and not adding extra hydration. It is recommended to apply facial oil immediately after using a toner or serum and then follow it with a moisturiser to lock it all in.

Facial oils under make-up?

If you are trying to achieve a dewy look, facial oils can be just the right tool to help you achieve it. Putting a light oil before make-up helps prep the skin and gives you that perfect, airbrushed finish. Apply the oil and wait for a few minutes to let it sink into the skin and then start applying the make-up.

Here is a round-up of some facial oils that are proven to be effective for different weather conditions.

Jojoba oil 

This oil is abundant in antioxidants and is an excellent option for winters. It addresses concerns of pigmentation and under-eye circles. Gently massage the oil on affected areas and leave it on overnight. You can enhance the treatment by adding a few drops of vitamin E. 

RAS Jojaba pure plant oil, (30ml) ₹990

Avocado oil 

Packed with omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins A, D, and E, as well as potassium, avocado oil aids in minimising signs of ageing, soothes redness, and alleviates skin irritation. Its emollient properties make it an ideal choice for individuals with dry or flaky skin, making it an ideal option for oily skin in winter. 

 

Juice Chemistry, Cold Pressed Avocado Carrier Oil (30ml), ₹950

Rosehip oil 

This is a lightweight oil that quickly penetrates the skin, making it perfect for use in the summer. Its abundant antioxidants and essential fatty acids aids in repairing and safeguarding the skin against sun-induced damage. 

The Ordinary 100% Organic Cold-Pressed Rose Hip Seed Oil (30ml), ₹950

Squalane Oil 

Sourced from olives or sugarcane, squalane oil is the go-to option for summer, thanks to its lightweight texture. It helps lock the moisture in without leaving a heavy or greasy residue, making it suitable for various skin types, including oily and acne-prone skin, as it does not clog pores. 

Minimalist Squalane 100% Facial Oil (30ml) ₹699 

Argan Oil

Known for its extremely lightweight texture, argan oil is suitable for most skin types. Formulated with omega fatty acids, vitamin E, and linoleic acids, it works effectively by providing gentle hydration to the skin and can also help reduce breakouts.   

Kimirica Organic Moroccan Argan Oil (30 ml), ₹699

Kumkumadi oil

Owing to its antioxidant properties, kumkumadi oil has proven to be beneficial for blood circulation and repairing skin cells. Its key ingredients, red and gold saffron, play a significant role in giving the skin an even tone and an instant glow. 

 Kama Ayurveda, Kumkumadi Miraculous Ayurvedic Night Serum, ₹995

Camellia seed oil

This oil, which is abundant in antioxidants and has 85 per cent oleic acid, shows great potential in combating the adverse effects of free radicals such as sagging skin, wrinkles, and dark spots. It is a go-to option for your summer skin dryness. 

The Potions Camellia Seed Oil Serum (20 ml), ₹1,910