The Facts on Facial Oils

Facial Oils

Is your skin feeling dry? tired? rough in patches? needs a boost? Is your moisturiser just not doing its job? If you answered yes to any of the questions above, then a facial oil can be a great addition to your skin care routine.  Think of it like a natural face serum, but only better.  It can be used in many more ways than a face serum.  It’s really up to you.

How do I use a Facial Oil?

• As a serum – after cleansing and before your moisturiser.  Choose oils that absorb quickly in to the skin.

• As a primer – apply after your moisturiser to create a protective barrier and give your face a smooth, dewy feel.  Look for a non greasy oil that is still able to absorb quickly in to the skin.

• As a booster – add a few drops to your moisturiser for added hydration.  A great winter tip or when your skin is feeling especially dry.  No need for a new moisturiser.

• As a mini-facial – slather on, lay a warm hand towel over your face (not too warm) and relax.  Remove the towel as it begins to cool and ahhhhh – your skin should look nice, fresh, plump and renewed.

Which Facial Oil should I choose?

Here’s something you won’t read on a beauty blog – there is no ‘best’ facial oil.  It really comes down to your skin type.  Whether a super-charged rosehip oil or a beautiful smelling oil blend - they all will add moisture and smoothness, and they all contain fatty acids and antioxidants.  Some oils more so than others.  Equally important as efficacy (how it works on your skin) is aesthetics (how it feels on your skin).  If you already have oily skin, a light, slippery oil that doesn’t absorb quickly will just make you feel oilier.

The 3 nourishing oils available in the Drift Escentuals Skincare Range have been carefully selected based on efficacy and aesthetics, and a desire to keep things simple.  Why use a blend of many, when you can use just one. 

Here’s an overview of each:

Rosehip Oil - The Anti-Aging Oil

Drift Escentuals Rosehip Oil is certified organic and sourced from rosehip seeds grown in Chile.

Why - because it has loads of regenerating properties.  Rosehip Oil is high in both linolenic and linoleic essential fatty acids that the body can’t produce.  It also contains a fair amount of Vitamin C and beta-carotene which are powerful anti-oxidants.  Beta-carotene is what makes it an orangey colour (don't panic, you won't turn orange) and helps with sun damage.  A relatively light weight, non greasy oil – it absorbs quickly in to the skin.

• Recommended for aging and sun damaged skin. 
  
• Best for normal, dry and even problem skin types.

• Not recommended for skin that easily flares and is overly sensitive as it does contain tannins which may be a little too astringent.

Evening Primrose Oil - The Balancing Oil

Drift Escentuals Evening Primrose Oil is cold pressed and also certified organic.

Remember how oils with high linoleic acid help both dry and oily skin?  Evening primrose oil has loads of linoleic acid.  It also has a fair amount of GLA (gamma linolenic acid) so combined it will help restore the skin’s barrier functions, improve hydration and provide anti-inflammatory benefits too.  A thin, dry oil – it also absorbs quickly in to the skin.

• Recommended for skin that is thirsty and needs a boost.
• Great for dry, oily and sensitive skin - all skin types.
  
• It may also soothe scaling and itchiness.

Borage Oil - The Healing Oil

Drift Escentuals Borage Oil is pure, cold pressed and refined due to the distinct smell of the borage seed.

I like to think borage oil has superpowers.  It has the highest amount of GLA than any other oil so it helps repair the skin’s barrier functions faster than any other fatty acid.  -Vs- Evening Primrose oil, it heals quicker, calms and can help reduce redness.  It too is a thin, dry oil that absorbs quickly in to the skin.  But that doesn't necessarily make it 'the best'.

• Recommended for super dry, super sensitive, inflamed skin. 
  
• Great for skin conditions such as dermatitis or rosacea.

Now, I must add that I can and do create facial oil blends specifically for clients.  I do this to treat a very specific skincare need exclusive to them.  The 3 beautiful oils that are part of the Drift Escentuals Skincare Range keep things simple and covers all skin types.

Well, that’s the face of it covered.  Next post, I’ll move on to the body.  Body oils that is. 

Until then, feel free to post any comments or questions!  Nicole @ Drift Facial Lounge.