If you told me five years ago that in the near future we’d be putting oil on our face every day I don’t think I’d believe you. Many of us grew up thinking oil would clog our pores, but we also plucked the hell out of our eyebrows to look more like Gwen Stefani so clearly, we had a lot to learn.
While it’s true that some oils could clog pores, not all oils are the same. First, it’s important to differentiate cleansing oils from regular facial oils. The Oil Cleansing Method may sound counterintuitive, but it really works, just remember the scientific principle that like dissolves like. So, a quality cleansing oil will remove makeup and excess sebum, you just have to wash it off with warm water and a washcloth when you’re done. Facial oils, on the other hand, are meant to stay on your skin and really sink in so you can reap the benefits of whatever oil you choose.
Before putting any oil type on your face, it’s important to research what’s best for you. For example, a thick oil that could do wonders for someone with dry skin could cause breakouts on someone with naturally oily skin. No matter your skin type, try to use high-quality oils, as cheaper versions usually contain fillers that could cause a bad reaction. Similarly, if you’re going to use essential oils, dilute them with a gentle carrier oil so they don’t cause burns or irritation.
There are many variations of the Oil Cleansing Method. Some people start with an oil-based cleanser and then use a water-based cleanser, which is known as double cleansing. Some people may stick with the traditional way of using a blend of castor oil and olive oil and massaging it in for 30 minutes. If you’re just starting your oil cleansing journey and have normal to dry skin, the DHC Deep Cleansing Oil is a great choice. This hydrating oil contains olive oil and vitamin E and is water-soluble so it won’t leave a greasy film on your face.
For those with oily or sensitive skin, Kiehl’s Midnight Recovery Botanical Cleansing Oil is lightweight enough to get the job done without clogging pores. It contains calming lavender oil, hydrating evening primrose oil, and squalane oil derived from olives. Squalane oil is a byproduct of squalene, which is naturally occurring in our bodies. As we age, squalene production decreases, so when we use squalane oil in skincare products it mimics our natural sebum to moisturize our skin and keep us looking young.
Drunk Elephant’s Marula Oil is one of the most popular facial oils right now, and it’s easy to see why. Described as a “rehab for your skin”, this facial oil does it all. It’s full of antioxidants that will nourish and moisturize your skin, leaving you with a healthy glow. It’s even been known to reduce signs of aging, plus it works on all skin types, so if you just want better skin overall this is a great first choice.
If you want to fight signs of aging without spending too much money, there’s always the affordable Rose Hip Seed Oil from The Ordinary. Anti-aging has become somewhat of a controversial term recently, so we’ll look at it this way: no matter your age, the sun, pollution, and other environmental factors can be damaging to your face. Rosehip oil can help reduce fine lines and wrinkles brought about by said environmental factors so everyone could benefit from this one.
As a lifelong acne fighter, I can vouch for the ingredients in Sunday Riley’s U.F.O. oil. Salicylic acid, tea tree oil, and black cumin oil are fantastic ingredients that will reduce blemishes and promote clear skin. Like with other luxury facial oils you can apply this directly to the skin or mix it with a moisturizer. Some people even add a drop or two to their foundation!
This oil is perfect for anyone who’s low-maintenance but still wants quality ingredients in their skincare products. The Everyday Oil can be used all over, every day, and contains all organic oils including coconut, olive, argan, jojoba, and castor oil. It also contains lavender, geranium, and clary sage and the ingredients work together to moisturize and calm the skin.
On the opposite end of the spectrum, we have Tatcha’s Gold Camellia Beauty Oil, which is definitely not for our low-maintenance beauty lovers. If you want to treat yourself, this luxury oil is ideal for creating the perfect canvas for makeup. Camellia oil will nourish your skin while licorice extract will be calming and reduce redness, and of course, the 23-karat gold flakes will add a nice touch of glamour.
Everyone’s skin is different so it’s important to remember that not all oils will work for everyone. Like with any beauty product, finding the perfect cleansing or facial oil takes time and lots of research. Considering how popular facial oils have become, it should only get easier as brands make these essential ingredients more accessible to the masses. If you’re still not sure about facial oils, Glossier just released a cleansing oil so yes, they are all the rage right now.
By Clare Saxton
Cover Photo Alyssa Traoré by Justine Leenarts
