What Are The Best Facial Oils For Aging Skin?

If you are still new to skincare or haven’t explored the options of facial oils out there quite yet, it’s important to know before buying whether or not you can use facial oil as a substitute for other products and what facial oil does for your skin.

Facial oils have gained popularity in skincare routines due to their ability to provide hydration and nourishment to the skin, along with other favorable benefits. If you are a novice to skincare or haven’t explored the variety of options for facial oils quite yet, don’t fret. We've laid out some general guidelines, such as whether or not you can use facial oil as a substitute for other products and what facial oil exactly does to your skin once it’s applied.

What is the difference between serum and facial oil?
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Serums and facial oils are both popular skincare products, but they have distinct differences in terms of their composition, consistency, and how they work on the skin. Serums are mostly water-based or water-soluble products that contain a high concentration of active ingredients.

Meanwhile, facial oils are lipid-based products that are made up of natural oils like jojoba, argan, or rosehip oil, which are rich in fatty acids and antioxidants. These oils have a thicker, oil-based texture and are often used to provide hydration and nourishment to the skin.

Many people use both serums and facial oils in their skincare routines, often applying the serum first to deliver targeted treatment. Following with a facial oil to lock in moisture improves overall efficacy and maintains the health of the skin’s protective barrier.

Are Facial Oils Hydrating For the Skin?

To answer the age-old question, no, facial oils don’t contribute to skin hydration. Though they have grown in popularity in the industry over the past few years and several marketing campaigns have advertised their oils as containing “hydrating” properties, this is another skincare myth that must be debunked.

Facial oils may not contribute to overall hydration, but they are moisturizing and should be incorporated into any routine for these capabilities. Using hydrating lotions or creams will keep the skin from becoming dehydrated, while the use of facial oils helps to retain that moisture in the skin. Oils themselves are devoid of water but they act as a natural sealer so that water that is already held in the skin doesn’t escape.

Essentially, when you are hydrating your skin, you are applying water to your skin, binding it to the other skincare ingredients that work in the skin cells and improve overall health and exfoliation. Moisturizing tends to follow the hydration process, which lubricates the skin with humectants and emollients to reduce skin dehydration and retain water in the skin that was added during the hydration cycle. Contrary to popular belief, “hydrate” and “moisturize” are not interchangeable when it comes to skincare products.

The general structure of oil involves the glycerin molecule triglyceride, typically attached with fatty acids in its formulation. Not all oils have the same moisturization properties and this depends on the lipid content of the particular oil.

Now that we’ve concluded whether facial oils are hydrating or moisturizing, what types of facial oils should you be searching for to add to your routine?

how To use facial oils effectively for hydration

• Apply them as the last step in your skincare routine, after your water-based products (like serums or moisturizers) to seal in moisture.
• Use a few drops and warm them between your hands before gently pressing the oil into your skin.
• Experiment with different oils to find the one that works best for your skin type and concerns.
• Be consistent but don't overdo it; a little goes a long way.

what are the Skin Benefits of Facial Oils?

We are aware that facial oils don’t directly contribute to skin hydration, but that doesn’t mean that they don’t contain other benefits! There’s a reason they have become trendy among skincare users and not only due to the successful marketing campaigns.

Aside from retaining existing moisture in the skin, following application, many users tend to experience softer, brighter skin complexion. Many oil formulas can help with regulating sebum production, reduce blemishes on the skin, and cleanse the skin with its antibacterial properties.

Facial oils can also enhance the skin’s protective barrier when it comes to having a shield against the environment and extreme weather conditions that penetrate the skin and cause damage such as aging signs and dark spots.

There’s a reason facial oil products are integrated into so many skincare routines. Facial oils offer countless benefits when included in your daily regimen. These are just a few of the advantages of utilizing facial oils:

1. Hydration: Facial oils function as excellent moisturizers, though they shouldn’t be the only method of moisturizing in a routine. They can, however, provide a protective barrier that helps lock in moisture, preventing water loss and encouraging ample hydration.

2. Anti-aging: Some facial oils contain anti-aging properties and are formulated specifically for this purpose. They can help further reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles by promoting skin elasticity and providing protection against free radical damage.

3. Skin Barrier Support: Facial oils strengthen the skin's natural barrier, helping to protect it from external aggressors like pollution and harsh weather conditions. A strong skin barrier is essential for maintaining skin health and preventing premature aging.

4. Soothing Properties: Certain facial oils, like chamomile or lavender oil, have enhanced soothing properties. They can be beneficial for those with sensitive or irritated skin, ultimately reducing redness and inflammation.

5. Enhanced Product Absorption: When used in combination with other skincare products, facial oils have been found to boost the absorption of active ingredients, making your skincare routine even more effective.

Despite many of these incredible benefits, facial oil should never be used to substitute other products, such as sunscreen, moisturizers, and toners. Facial oils should only be applied and previously-cleansed skin and shouldn’t be overused. Excess application of oils can cause clogged pores and flare-ups, though oils do tend to be gentler formulas than other types of skincare products.

Different Types of Facial Oils For the Skin

Facial oils tend to be available in the form of carrier, essential, or blended oils (a hybrid of the other two). Carriers are base oils, which are richer in fatty acids and nutrients for the skin to absorb. Essential oils, on the other hand, contain higher concentrated formulas and can even be added to carrier oils to increase their overall benefits, including increased skin texture, elasticity, and in the form of aromatherapy.

There are various types of facial oils, each with their unique properties, benefits, and functions. Here are some common facial oils for different skin types and concerns:

• Jojoba Oil: Jojoba oil is suitable for most skin types. It closely resembles the skin's natural sebum and is known for its hydrating and non-comedogenic properties, which means it won’t clog pores. It can also help balance oil production in the skin and is often found in moisturizers and cleansers.
• Argan Oil: This type of oil is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and essential fatty acids. It is well-suited for dry and mature skin, as it can help moisturize and improve skin elasticity.
• Rosehip Seed Oil: Rosehip seed oil is known for its regenerative properties. It can help with reducing the appearance of scars, fine lines, and hyperpigmentation. Best of all, it is generally suitable for all skin types.
• Coconut Oil: Coconut oil is moisturizing and a favorite among many to be used on dry skin. However, it tends to be comedogenic and may not be suitable for individuals with acne-prone or sensitive skin.
• Olive Oil: Olive oil is rich in antioxidants and can be used with most skin types. It is often used in cleansing and moisturizing products.
• Tea Tree Oil: Tea tree oil contains natural antibacterial properties and is often used by those with acne-prone skin. However, it should be diluted before applying it to the skin, as it can be rather potent and may cause unwanted irritation if used undiluted.
• Squalane Oil: Squalane is a lightweight and non-comedogenic oil that provides excellent hydration and is popular among many skincare users, particularly in the past few years as more research has been conducted into its benefits. It's suitable for all skin types, especially sensitive skin.
  
  

Are there side effects to using facial oils?

Using facial oils can have several benefits for the skin, but like any skincare product, they may also have potential side effects, particularly if they are not well-suited to your skin type or if you use them in excess. Here are some potential side effects often associated with using facial oils:

Breakouts: Certain oils, especially those that are heavier or have a higher comedogenic rating, can clog pores and lead to breakouts in individuals with acne-prone or oily skin.

Increased Skin Sensitivity: Some people may be sensitive or allergic to certain facial oils. If you experience redness, itching, or irritation after using a particular oil, discontinue use immediately. Certain citrus-based oils, like lemon oil, can also make your skin more sensitive to the sun's harmful effects.

Excessive Greasiness: Applying too much oil or using an oil that is too heavy for your skin type can leave your skin feeling excessively greasy or shiny.

Overall, using facial oils can be a valuable addition to your skincare routine when chosen and applied correctly. It’s most important to pay attention to how your skin responds and adjust your routine accordingly to maximize the benefits, as well as minimize potential side effects.

How often should I use facial oils?

The frequency with which you should use facial oils depends on your skin type, the specific oil you're using, and your skincare goals. Here are some general recommendations for how often to use facial oils in terms of skin type:

• Dry or Dehydrated Skin: If you have dry skin, you can typically use facial oils daily in the morning and evening. The oils can provide essential hydration and help lock in moisture to combat dryness and flakiness.
• Normal Skin: For individuals with normal skin, using facial oil once a day, either in the morning or evening, can help maintain skin hydration and provide additional nourishment. You can experiment with your preferred time of day.
• Combination Skin: Those with combination skin may benefit from using facial oils in specific areas of the face that are dry or prone to dryness. For example, you could apply the oil to the cheeks while avoiding the T-zone, or use it only in your nighttime routine.
• Oily or Acne-Prone Skin: If you have oily or acne-prone skin, you can still use facial oils, but it's best to use them sparingly. You might apply the oil 2-3 times a week or as needed in areas that are dry or experiencing peeling from acne treatments. Avoid using oils on areas prone to breakouts.
• Sensitive Skin: Sensitive skin can benefit from facial oils, but be sure to choose oils that are well-tolerated by your skin. Start with a patch test and use the oil sparingly, gradually increasing frequency if your skin responds well.
• Anti-Aging or Specific Concerns: If you're using a facial oil for specific anti-aging or targeted skincare concerns, always follow the product's recommendations and adjust as needed.

Which products pair well with facial oil?

Facial oils pair well with many other skincare products to provide comprehensive benefits for your skin. Here are some products that work well in tandem with facial oils:

• Cleansers: Facial oils can be incorporated as part of an optional double-cleansing method, where an oil-based cleanser is used first to dissolve makeup, sunscreen, and excess sebum, followed by a water-based cleanser to remove any lingering impurities. This helps ensure thorough cleansing without overwhelming the skin.

• Serums: Facial oils can be layered over several water-based serums. Apply your serum first to deliver these concentrated actives straight to the skin, followed by your preferred facial oil to lock in moisture.

• Moisturizers: If you are prone to dehydrated skin, try applying facial moisturizer first to provide essential hydration, and then layer the facial oil as a seal.

• Retinoids: Retinoids, such as retinol or prescription tretinoin, can be used in the evening with facial oils. You can apply a retinoid after cleansing, allow time for it to absorb, and then use a facial oil as a soothing step.

• Exfoliants: If you use chemical exfoliants such as alpha hydroxy acids or beta hydroxy acids, apply them before using your facial oil of choice. Exfoliants help remove dead skin cells, allowing the oil to penetrate more effectively.

• Face Masks: Facial oils can be used with hydrating or soothing face masks. Apply the mask first, and then seal in the mask's benefits with a layer of facial oil.

• Toners: Apply hydrating toners before your facial oil to add moisture to your skin. Toners help prepare the skin for better absorption of the oil and other skincare products.

• Eye Creams: Facial oils can also be gently patted around the orbital area to provide extra hydration to the delicate skin around the eyes.

  Eye patches

  are also a useful addition to this step of the skincare process.
  
  

Conclusion : is face oil good for your skin?

What works for one individual won’t necessarily work for your skin. As you’re now aware, you should never use facial oil as a sole substitute for products such as moisturizers and sunscreen. Incorporating facial oils into your routine, whether combining them with your preferred moisturizer or applying oil after a lightweight lotion or cream, provides numerous benefits to your skin and overall health. You have nothing to lose but rather only positive results to gain from experimenting with the variety of oils out on the market. However, don’t fall for facial oils that state they are “hydrating” because that’s just not true.

Whether you're a skincare expert or just starting to dip your toes into the world of beauty rituals, consider incorporating facial oil into your daily routine. With patience and consistency, you'll unlock the transformative power of these wonders, paving the way to a complexion that radiates health and vitality.