After endless indoor time and the warmer months ahead, our skin cries out for extra love. While you may be a master at the combination of cleanser and moisturizer, and even reach for a weekly mask, there is one key component that is too often overlooked: facial oil. In the recent history of skin care, facial oil has always received the short end of the bar in terms of reputation. It has been difficult to unlearn our impression that applying oil to your face only fuels the acne flame – especially since a number of beauty brands have exploited the misunderstanding in the past and classified facial products as "oil-free".
However, it is high time we understood that oils are critical to completing a robust skin care routine. While lotions and serums are great for general hydration, oil can solve a number of specific problems: scar fading, aging, skin smoothing, and even sebum balancing. Whether you're a vitamin C junkie or prefer a formula made with flowers, there's a lot to discover when you experiment with beauty's best kept secret. The President of Eminence Organics, Boldijarre Koronczay, says about the benefits of these products: "… Face oils are perfectly absorbed by the skin, leaving behind moisture and suppleness."
What are face oils?
With skin care roots dating back to Ancient Egypt and Asia, oils have long been a must have when it comes to hydration and repair. Since naturally produced oils keep our skin cells fresh and hydrated, facial oils complement or complement their process. They include fragrant vegetable oils (essential oils that come only from the flowers or roots of a plant or herb), non-fragrant vegetable oils, and synthetic oils. Because of their softening (their ability to strengthen the outer layer of skin through lubrication) they can trap water, making your skin softer.
3 benefits of facial oils
1. Hydrate the skin
We found face oil to be a godsend, but what does it actually do that other products can't? Well, it turns out a number of things. It's easy to write off oils as just another unnecessary skin care step, but in reality there is so much they can do to treat and combat a wide variety of skin conditions. Not only are they lipophilic (they dissolve in your skin's natural lipids to give them an extra boost), but they also penetrate deeply into the layers of your skin to trap moisture – great for dehydrated skin – while also forming a protective barrier on top of the skin Skin surface that repels harmful substances.
2. Add nutrients
Of course, these benefits are without considering the abilities of nutrients that are abundant in any facial oil. Certain vitamins or oils derived from certain plants can treat certain skin problems and improve the overall appearance dramatically. Oils made from sources filled with antioxidants are the most recommended by experts. As for the reason antioxidants have become the noun of beauty, it owes all of its properties to reducing the visible signs of aging. UV radiation creates free radicals that damage healthy cells and affect the appearance of skin in the same way that a car that has been overexposed to the elements begins to rust. Antioxidants stop this process and reduce inflammation, making antioxidant heavy oils ideal for sensitive skin. Antioxidants also aid in the production of collagen, which decreases with age by preventing enzymes from destroying collagen protein – which greatly improves the skin's elasticity.
3. Target conditions
Contrary to popular belief, various facial oils can also greatly benefit people with acne, especially oils with antibacterial properties. While we have all once firmly believed that oil products should clog pores and be avoided, the reality is that many acne sufferers navigate extremely dry skin for a variety of reasons, including powerful skin cleansing medications. Many topical acne treatments only remove more moisture from the skin, but the right facial oil will reset your oil production and counter pimples right away while it cleanses and soothes. In fact, it is the oil that does the double victory on pimple-prone skin: it speeds healing and fades while new scars appear. There are also oils that make clear skin their mission for acne sufferers by blending salicylic acid (the acne fighting super ingredient) with the fatty acids needed to correct skin tone and keep your skin plump.
Best Face Oils For Skin Care Products:
camellia
If the camellia plant sounds unfamiliar to you, you are not alone – although the wildflower is not as well known as some of your favorite flora, it is quietly becoming the focal point of the skin care industry. Since the ingredient, which originated in Japan, is easily absorbed into the skin (no grease residues!), It is becoming a favorite with people who are afraid of the world of facial oil as well as those who want a light product on the go. It's also highly transdermal (penetrates deep into the layers of the skin to heal and hydrate from the inside out) and non-comedogenic (doesn't block pores) so you won't suddenly break out.
Distilled from cold-pressed camellia seeds, the oil is rich in fatty acids and antioxidants that rejuvenate the skin while reducing the appearance of aging. About 82% of the fatty acids in camellia oil consist of oleic acid (omega-9). The oil also allows your skin to replenish essential vitamins: A, B, D, E, as well as Omega-3, which helps relieve dryness and damage from sun exposure. In fact, this oil is actively superior in terms of restoring elasticity – it nourishes the skin thoroughly to improve texture and increase suppleness – a must for dry or noticeably aged skin.
Marula
Marula comes from the African marula fruit tree, which was once wild and extremely rare. He has long been known for his medicinal prowess – he was even known once for promoting fertility. The oil is obtained from the grains of the marula fruit and the nut in the middle. It's also high in protein and antioxidants like vitamin E, which both hydrates and promotes collagen production. In short, this should be viewed as a skin care miracle cure.
Like the camellia, the now cultivated marula is also quickly absorbed by the skin, so it actually serves as an excellent base for makeup. Because marula promotes the skin's innate ability to regenerate itself, it's one of those rare ingredients that offers different benefits to each skin type. Acne? Don't worry, marula contains microbial properties that can stop pimple-catalyzing bacteria – it's also non-greasy. If you're looking to combat the visible signs of aging, its ability as a moisturizer on fine lines and as a general moisturizer can be highly effective. Marula is believed to reduce the feeling of itching or irritation in skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis. It is also known to smell amazing and is the basis of many perfumes.
Hemp seeds
Hemp oil is cold-pressed from hemp seeds and is a non-comedogenic powerhouse for hydration. Hemp seed oil is full of fatty acids and vitamins and is known to promote cell regeneration and skin turnover. Since drought can lead to overproduction of oil (a recipe for acne stimulation), using hemp seeds as a moisturizer helps reduce acne by making up for excess oil. It's also strong anti-inflammatory – ideal for acne, conditions like psoriasis, and even improves dermatitis.
And that's not all, hemp oil also provides nutrients that the body cannot produce. Linoleic acid and oleic acid are very nutritious and go a long way in reducing fine lines and wrinkles. You can apply a small amount to the areas you want or use them anywhere as a great addition to your skin care routine.
Jojoba
You may know this oil a little better. The jojoba plant grown in the desert of North America prefers an extremely harsh environment. It also produces a nut that is used to make an oil known for its healing properties. Jojoba oil is also particularly special because it is the botanical substance that best mimics human sebum. As such, its beauty benefits are literally endless. Not only is it non-comedogenic, but your skin literally cannot tell it apart from the oil your body naturally produces. This means it is non-irritating and sits on the skin to lock in moisture.
But that's not all jojoba face oil has to offer. Because of its vitamin E nutrients, experts believe it is ideal for supporting acne and reducing the appearance of scars. An antioxidant powerhouse, jojoba can reset the oxidative stress on your skin caused by sun exposure and general environmental factors. It's also antibacterial (goodbye breakouts!) And anti-inflammatory, while also helping to fight skin that feels irritated from eczema and other conditions. Needless to say, it's an all-in-one skin saver – a must have for combination skin.
Grape seed
Grape seed has long been viewed as a cooking alternative to the much heavier olive oil and is also a favorite that is applied topically as a natural beauty product. Made from leftover grape seeds (just another gift from the winemaker), grapeseed oil is similar to marula – it contains microbial properties and is perfect for fighting acne-causing bacteria.
Interestingly, grape seed is unique in that it helps vitamins preexisting in your skin (especially C and E) make its job easier, and it's also anti-inflammatory to help with irritation. Experts claim that grapeseed oil is not just a powerful moisturizer, but that its restructuring abilities improve skin elasticity and balance tone. Grape seed is also full of antioxidants, which we now know to reverse the appearance of wrinkles while sealing in what's already serving your skin – it's a win-win situation.
rose hip
When it comes to skin care, rosehip oil is a staple. Known as one of the most popular Kate Middleton skincare ingredients, rose hip oil is filled with vitamin A and has become an antiaging phenomenon. This can also be the key to navigating dehydrated or moisturizing, eczema-prone skin simply because of the amount of fatty acids that make up the formula – with all that moisture keeping your skin firm in the process.
Vitamins C and E are also found in droves, which reverse oxidative damage and create scars. It is also very capable of improving the appearance of uneven skin tone caused by conditions such as melasma or general sun damage.
olive
By preventing premature aging from sun damage, olive oil remains high on the list of antioxidant-filled products for skin and is even recommended for treating breakouts. It's high in vitamins A, D, E, and K, all of which offer something different in skin care but most importantly, deeply hydrate.
Sunflower
Due to the fact that it's loaded with vitamins A, D, and E, sunflower oil also makes the list a beauty product to watch. Not only is sunflower oil known for cell regeneration, but due to the fact that it is particularly quickly absorbed and non-comedogenic, it is ideal for hydrating dry skin that is prone to breakouts.
And sunflower oil can be a real lifesaver, especially for skin prone to acne. Like hemp seeds, sunflower oil contains linoleic acid (omega 6), which is known for its healing properties. It also protects the skin's natural barrier and is anti-inflammatory. It's great for dry skin or eczema.
Sea buckthorn
Despite its name, sea buckthorn oil is not extracted from the seabed, but from the fruits and seeds of the sea buckthorn plant. While the thorns on the shrub make harvesting difficult, it's an antioxidant blast (wave goodbye to UV damage) that's great for sensitive skin – no wonder it's been a Chinese medicine favorite for a thousand years. The oil is quickly absorbed into the skin when applied.
If you want to continue convincing of its magical properties, the vitamin C content of the superfruit is 12 times that of an orange. It also contains over 190 nutrients and phytonutrients and a uniquely high fatty acid content. The skin conditions that are known to improve range from rosacea to psoriasis as they can reduce swelling and redness. It is also shown to improve uneven skin tone while increasing collagen production, resulting in a brighter complexion than ever before.
Argan
Given that the argan tree is the oldest living tree species in the world, it should come as no surprise that it offers a slew of beauty benefits. Argan oil comes from the grains of argan fruits (which resemble large olives) and is so rich in fatty acids and vitamins that it has been nicknamed "liquid gold". North African women have used the oil for centuries, but it has recently become popular with beauty junkies to reverse the appearance of sun and age spots while balancing the skin's sebum for a fresh, dull complexion.
This is one of those rare oils that can really do it all: it uses essential vitamins to fight oxidative stress, while linoleic acid soothes inflamed skin and improves overall texture. Studies have also shown that regular application of argan oil changes the skin at the cellular level and actually increases the skin's water retention. If you're looking for intense hydration quickly, look no further.
Which Eminence Organics facial oil should I use for my skin type?
While Eminence Organics facial oils are designed for all skin types, there are some that address more specific problems. Whether you want to balance dry or oily skin, or want to see results but are forced to tiptoe around sensitive skin, there is an oil for you.
For dry skin:
Sure, camellia oil is a huge benefit on its own, but adding marula to the mixture is like bathing your skin in a recovery elixir. Eminence Organics' richest face oil, Camellia Glow Solid Face Oil, combines the luxurious ingredients camellia and marula into an experience that is deeply relaxing and moisturizing. Camellia is known to be a moisturizer, which is why the oil makes the skin smooth and soft. Camellia Glow Solid Face Oil is a solid oil that melts into a silky liquid that is easily absorbed by the skin. It's especially therapeutic. With 87% of users experiencing a noticeable healthy glow after using the formula, this oil ensures that drier skin types revitalize and brighten their complexions.
Product selection
Camellia Glow Solid Face Oil
VIEW PRODUCT
For sensitive skin:
If you are looking for something in the market that is also intensely moisturizing and not irritating to sensitive skin, our Rose Hip Triple C + E Firming Oil will satisfy all your hydration needs without your skin getting upset. Studies have shown that rose hip oil's vitamin-stacked formula can target the drying effects of environmental stressors (e.g., sun exposure or even pollution) while deeply hydrating the skin from the inside out. For those looking to improve the appearance of dry, red, or cracked skin, the added benefits of superfruit sea buckthorn and the always-resilient jojoba oil provide a boost of moisture – expect nothing less than transformed soft, supple skin. If you need further recommendations, Rosehip Triple C + E Firming Oil was a favorite of Jennifer Lawrence during Red Sparrow's winter shoot.
Described as a "travel bag essential" by Victoria Beckham, Facial Recovery Oil is another great option for those wanting a serious nudge for sensitive skin. The Beyond Organic Collection of Biodynamic® products is clinically hypoallergenic, with every ingredient being organic and certified Biodynamic® (a process that takes into account both the quality of the materials and the manufacture itself). Containing deeply moisturizing olive oil, this product evens out skin tone and adds extra moisture around the eye area to help suppress puffiness. Essentially: a power pack for skin care in liquid form.
Product selection
Rose hip triple C + E firming oil
VIEW PRODUCT
Facial Recovery Oil
VIEW PRODUCT
For oily skin:
Cleansing up signs of aging and drying environmental stress isn't all the Facial Recovery Oil can do. It also contains ylang ylang and clary sage to balance the amount of oil on the skin and reduce the appearance of shine. The ingredients also work together to fight blemishes and improve the appearance of uneven skin tone, with ylang ylang deeply moisturizing the complexion
Product selection
Facial Recovery Oil
VIEW PRODUCT
For combination skin:
When your skin is particularly unpredictable, you'll want an oil that covers all of your bases. Our Rose Hip Triple C + E Firming Oil treats most skin conditions related to severe dehydration, while jojoba extract's ability to mimic natural sebum will convince your skin that it produces all of that goodness on its own. Sea buckthorn's vitamin C properties also boost hydration levels, so you get a range of targeted skin solutions in just one product.
Product selection
Rose hip triple C + E firming oil
VIEW PRODUCT
Where do they fit in a skin care routine?
The nature of skin care is very personal – every skin is different and every individual has certain preferences for their appearance. However, a general rule of thumb for most products is to start with the lighter formulas first. Let them soak into the skin, then move on to thicker treatments.
While oils definitely have the ability to penetrate multiple layers of the solution, you should take full advantage of a quality organic oil by making sure you incorporate it into the correct step of your skin care routine. Face oils can be applied before or after moisturizers, depending on the products used. They can be used to treat your skin before or after the moisturizer to allow it to penetrate your skin through the moisturizer. If you've heard of oils that come after moisturizers, sometimes they're mineral oils with such a high density that nothing can be absorbed after the oil (for reference, Eminence Organics face oils don't contain mineral oils). Another option is to mix your oil with your moisturizer. You can just add a few drops to your other products to take advantage of their benefits. It's just about figuring out what's best for your skin.
How to apply a face oil:
As with perfumes, it is easy to "squeeze" a face oil with an overly vigorous application. Dermatologists recommend placing one to four drops of oil in the palm of your hand before gently warming the product in your hands. Then, instead of rubbing it like a moisturizer, gently press your entire hand into the skin to allow the oil to absorb without irritating the skin's surface from friction. You can use facial oil either in the morning or evening, or as a spot treatment for pimples or uneven skin tone.
Now that we're better at skin care, it's obvious that oils are just as much a necessary addition to your regimen as moisturizing lotions – especially since most of the latter are heavily water-based and therefore not pliable enough to tackle the tough problems (read : Signs of aging). When dealing with poor air quality and general environmental pollution, facial oil can act as a protective shield for your skin. Temperature shifts are also the ideal time to incorporate an oil into your everyday life. Cold weather can make your face dry and flaky, while warmer temperatures mean constant mediation of UV damage. If you feel like your skin is drying out, dermatologists suggest that a drop of oil can be more effective than moisturizing it.
Unlike most skin care products, which are clearly intended for specific areas of skin, oil is just as beneficial for any part of the body as it is for your face. It's a great addition to a full body beauty routine, especially if you have severe dryness or eczema in a particular area. Bottom Line: When it comes to hydration, facial oil is the product that keeps proving to be the most valuable weapon in your skin care arsenal.
To get the most out of your skin care routine, use our Spa Locator to find a spa for face-to-face or virtual consultations on our facial oils and the products or ingredients that best suit your needs. Let us know on social media which face oil is best for your skin type.