The Best 5 Oils To Use On Your Skin
NADINE BROWN
Oil for the skin? Wouldn’t it be better to use a specially formulated moisturizer? You wouldn’t be wrong in believing that, because the skincare industry has made it’s millions by telling people that they need product formula after product formula, while ignoring the fact that some of the most wonderful products for the skin are also the most natural.
Not only are natural oils (we’re talking about those without all of the nasty additives or unnecessary blends here) some of the most potent forms of skincare treatment, but they’re also more easily absorbed by the skin. This is because the oil molecules are the right fit and configuration for our skin cells, like the perfect key to a lock.
Oils are now a mainstay in our skincare routines at FMHQ, providing everything from essential moisture and treatment, aromatherapy benefits, and even a slip for our beloved gua sha rituals. So if you’re new to oils, are looking for a simple one-step routine, or want to shake it up altogether, these are the best oils to use on your skin (for every skin type).
1. Rosehip Oil
Acne is something that affects nearly 10% of the global population, yet we’re still struggling to get on top of it. Oftentimes, acne is representative of a greater imbalance within, but harsh products and treatment regimes that play on our insecurities are only inflaming the skin further. My answer is rosehip oil; although any skin type can enjoy it too.
It’s a miracle worker for those struggling with blemishes, as people who are acne-prone tend to have a low percentage of linoleic acid. Cold-extracted rosehip oil is also rich in antioxidants, which limit oxidative damage from the sun and pollutants, and is high in vitamin A (the active ingredient in prescriptive products like retinol and tretinoin).
2. Hemp Oil
Inflammatory skin disorders are more common than you think. Psoriasis, eczema, acne, and lichen planus are all representative of inflamed skin barriers. And the answer to this inflammation is the miracle hemp oil (but happy, healthy skin can benefit from it too).
Hemp oil (and not it’s psychoactive counterparts) contains components that have anti-inflammatory properties, as well as being high in antioxidant and fatty acids like gamma-linolenic acid, and the important fat-soluble vitamins A, D, and E.
3. Jojoba Oil
If you’re struggling with dry, sensitive, and dehydrated skin, you’re going to want to reach for an oil that’s typically a little thicker. This makes jojoba oil your most nourishing bet.
Not only is it easily absorbed into the skin, but it deeply penetrates to soothe any irritation, and provides a substantial long-acting layer of moisture. It’s rich in both B-group and E vitamins, as well as antioxidants and minerals like chromium, copper, and zinc, which all nourish and protect the skin. But due to being a thicker oil (wax actually), which is higher in oleic acid, it’s not suitable for oily or acne prone skin - these skin types are best suited to an oil high in linolenic acid instead.
4. Evening Primrose Oil
Have you been searching for the perfect product to support graceful aging? The beauty industry often plays this one on us, selling us products that we don’t need, which end up aggravating our skin with time. The answer that everyone needs is evening primrose oil; but it’s not just for aging, all skin types can use it too.
Quite simply, evening primrose oil’s high gamma-linolenic acid content aids with the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and even improves skin’s elasticity and firmness, meaning it’s almost an anti-wrinkle concentrate in a bottle.
5. Argan Oil
You may have tried argan oil in your hair, for beautifully soft and luscious locks, but did you know it’s one of the best treatments for one of the leading skin concerns - hyperpigmentation.
This is because argan oil inhibits the conversion of the enzymes TYR and DCT – which make melanin, while the high concentrations of vitamin E gently lighten any dark patches of skin. Other anti-inflammatory and antiseptic compounds suppress inflammation, which helps to prevent spots and blemishes that can leave dark marks on the skin.
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Aside from being the incredible and knowledgeable Head of Community here at Food Matters (you may often be chatting with her for any questions you have), Nadine is our resident guru for all things natural skincare and beauty. She loves geeking out on the latest research and science, as she initially trained in cosmetic dermal science and worked in the industry for more than a decade, but she’s all about making the information bite-sized and fun, while breaking down some of the modern myths we find in the beauty industry.