It’s not uncommon to be intimidated by facial oils, and it can also be hard not to worry about blemishes, heaviness and congestion when we’re all so used to a culture of squeaky cleanness. Though in their defense facial oils are a really concentrated way to deliver vital nutrients and deep and lasting moisture to the complexion when it’s craving nourishment, it’s just a matter of choosing the right oil for your skin type. Generally speaking, facial oils fall into two categories: Linoleic or Oleic.
If your skin is dry, dull, mature or lax, reach for Oleic Acid rich oils like:
✔Avocado
✔Apricot
✔Macadamia
✔Shea Nut
Try Biologique Recherche Serum T.E.W.L or Vintners Daughter Active Botanical Serum.
If your skin is more on the combination side, Linoleic Acid based oils are my preference: think:
✔Hempseed
✔Rosehip
✔Karanja
✔Black Cumin Seed
Try Augustinus Bader’s The Face Oil or Odacite’s Black Cumin + Cajeput Serum Concentrate
You can use facial oils neat on the skin if you’re feeling dry, devitalised, compromised or even sensitised, or layer them underneath your creams to really seal everything in. If you’re prone to shine, blend a couple of drops into you favourite cream to enrich the lipid content. I like to warm a few drops in my hands and press into the face, neck and decollete 1-2 times per week before laying over my night cream and hopping into bed!