Beauty oils are everywhere and flooding today’s beauty and fragrance market. From natural oils sold in speciality boutiques to the promise of oils such as Argan in your over-the-counter shampoos and body lotions. Confusing right? Well, oil is nourishing for your skin and works miracles for fine lines, elasticity, cell renewal, and dryness. So it seems counter-intuitive to want to add more oil to your beauty routine, when there are products out there that try to take it away. (Oh the challenges of being a woman!)
Oils and oil based products are often misunderstood. So here’s what we know, oils are essential to your skin’s health because they keep the outer layer of skin cells protected and attached making your skin radiant and youthful while protecting against future damage. Beauty oils can be used in your cleansers to leave a little oil behind and prevent that tight, dry just washed feeling we get after we cleanse.
When choosing a pure oil it is best to opt for unrefined and organic oils whenever possible. Believe it or not, your kitchen may hold a good array of these already. If not check your natural foods, grocery aisle. Here’s a list of our favorites:
Argan oil
The new LBD of oils, Argan is listed in plenty of beauty products, but don’t be fooled as most products contain such small amounts that you’ll never see the benefits. Known for its ability to hydrate, protect and soften skin, think of argan oil as a triple-threat treatment for dry and damaged skin. So go for the pure oil and skip the blends to reap all the benefits of vitamin E and omega-6 fatty acid. Pure argan has a light, grease-less finish, and when used on the face you’ll be able to apply makeup soon after it sinks in.
Coconut oil
For a good skin cleanser, try this oil. Naturally packed with protein, vitamin E and fatty acids which absorbs into the skin smoothly. Coconut oil lathers easily [and] has a long shelf life. This oil is a great base for DIY lotions.
Jojoba oil
For sensitive, oily skin Jojoba oil (and yes the J is pronounced like an H; hu-ho-ba) is said to be your bestie. Reap the antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and moisturizing benefits while curbing your skin’s oil production over time. Jojoba oil is so similar to the oils in your own skin that it actually tricks skin into thinking it produced enough of its own oil. Use this oil in everything, literally. However, on the face, to prevent from over-applying, it is suggested to dot the oil across your face (then connect the dots) in the morning on clean skin.
Olive oil
One of the most popular oils used today for cooking and sitting in many kitchens as we write. For many years, olive oil has been one of the best (and most affordable) oils for your skin and hair. Olive oil won’t clog your pores, is full of moisturizing antioxidants and with a natural dose of lactic acid, gently exfoliates your skin. Dab a cotton ball with plain olive oil and wipe away everything from mascara to long-wear lipstick. Then cleanse your face normally. Psst, this works with all oils, but olive oil is most convenient and cost effective.
Lavender oil
For a boost of stamina and energy lavender oil will do the trick. Believe it! While known for its aroma-therapeutic properties (aiding with insomnia, nervousness and circulation), its balancing properties makes it the jack-of-all-trades beauty treatment. Its anti-bacterial, antiseptic qualities are used topically to hydrate dry and acne prone skin.
Rosehip oil
Said to be the miracle skin remedy to prevent stretch marks. Therefore, expectant mothers and weight lifters this one’s for you. Rosehip oil is high in Vitamins A and C, is an anti-inflammatory, and is known to close pores. It contains lycopene to rejuvenate skin and help to maintain elasticity. Rub this in areas most affect by a change in skin elasticity.