I remember the days of applying thick creams to my face and waking up with my skin still dry as a desert. I didn’t understand. What was I doing wrong?! I was spending over $150 on a luxury face cream that was meant to work magic and yet my fine lines were still getting finer and my skin was constantly thirsty.
Enter face oils.
The first oil I was brave enough to try was the Tarte maracuja oil. I slathered it all over my face and after the first night, I kid you not, I was hooked. I was absolutely amazed at how soft, hydrated and clear my skin looked! This was in 2012 and I haven’t looked back since!
If you have oily skin, I’m sure the thought of putting oil on your face is terrifying. Understandable. I am by no means an esthetician but I have worked in the beauty industry in NYC and know entirely too much about skincare and the science behind it.
There are so many brands and oils out there to choose from so where do you begin?! If you’re new to oils and not sure which to try first I’d suggest starting with a basic formula such as pure jojoba oil or argan oil.
Jojoba oil mimics the sebum that occurs naturally in our skin so it is very unlikely to irritate sensitive skin. It is fantastic for combination/oily skin because it can help balance oil production. If you’re dry then you will benefit from its soothing and hydrating properties as well as see a bit of improvement with fine lines. The key to incorporating oils into your routine is finding the right oil for your skin type and using it correctly. Luckily, it’s pretty fool proof as you can literally slather it on a bare face and wake up glowing. The most vital tip I can give is to use it at night. This is when our skin is regenerating and absorbing our products more effectively than it does during the day. Feeling extra fancy? Use it in the daytime underneath your makeup for a lit from within glow. Only use a few drops as a slick face can create a not so gorgeous canvas for your favorite foundation.
Argan oil is another great option if you’re new to oils. It is packed with essential fatty acids and omegas which will plump the skin and feed it with the vitamins and goodness that we don’t always get from our diet. It has a pleasant, earthy smell and usually comes in a dark brown glass bottle so that it is protected from sunlight. That’s how you know if you’re getting a good, quality argan oil. If the bottle is light and the price is under $10 chances are it isn’t an organic, first cold pressed oil. First cold pressed means that the argan oil was pressed on the first round of extraction and at a low temperature to maintain the integrity of the oil. If you’re oily or want to use argan oil underneath makeup, try her lighter version. Add a few drops to your moisturizer or foundation and you’re good to glow! ( I couldn’t resist) : )
Ah…rosehip oil. My absolute favorite in the realm of beauty oils. I began using this little gem back in 2013 when I read that Miranda Kerr used rosehip oil in her daily routine. I mean…who wouldn’t want Miranda’s baby soft, glowing skin?! I picked up the Trilogy brand as I read its incredible reviews online. This is the only product I used to get my wedding day glow! It is a dry oil and is particularly beneficial if your concern is hyperpigmentation and scarring. Acne scars? This oil will help them fade over time with daily use. Some call it “nature’s retinol.” Kate Middleton is reportedly a huge fan after using it during her pregnancy with George. Of course, check with your doctor before incorporating any skincare product into your routine during pregnancy. It can also be used all over the body for stretch marks but I find it a bit too precious to use so generously. Trilogy makes a body oil version for that purpose which I have yet to try but looks gorgeous!
Lastly, there are so many gorgeous oil blends on the market. Sunday Riley’s “Luna” oil has a cult following as it contains retinol. Fresh’s “Seaberry oil” is a popular blend and Leahlani has 3 gorgeous oils in the line that are such a treat. Leahlani is based out of Hawaii and she adds a touch of the islands to each product she makes. Her toners come with a small gem inside (I think I had a rose quartz in my last bottle.) She completely embodies the definition of luxurious skincare. I love the Aloha Ambrosia as it has the most intoxicatingly fresh scent! She calls it a “superfood feast for your skin.” A few ingredients include squalene, jojoba oil, aloe, cherry oil and mangosteen. This is just an example of an oil blend. A blend will pack a lot more punch simply because it is incorporating several powerhouse ingredients so you’re reaping the extra benefits.
If you can’t tell, I’m slightly obsessed with face oils and hope that you’ll take the leap and give them a try! If you already incorporate oils into your routine, let me know in the comments below what some of your favorites are.
You are stronger than you think!
Love, Carrie xo
