Plant-based oils have long been at the heart of skincare routines — and for good reason! Their ability to hydrate, nourish, and protect the skin makes them must-haves in any beauty regimen.
Here’s a quick look at the remarkable properties of these natural elixirs.
The three pillars of hydration
A moisturizer is made up of three essential components that work together to nourish and protect the skin. Here’s a breakdown of their roles:
Humectants - The humectants act like water magnets. They draw moisture from the air or pull water from deeper layers of the skin to the surface, helping to prevent dehydration.
- Glycerin
- Hyaluronic acid
- Panthenol
- Aloe vera
Occlusives - The occlusives form a protective layer on the skin, preventing water from evaporating. They act as a barrier that "seals in" moisture.
- Petroleum Jelly
- Mineral oil
- Beeswax
Emollients - The emollients fill in the gaps between skin cells, softening and smoothing the skin’s surface. In larger amounts, they can also act as occlusives, adding an extra layer of protection.
- Rosehip oil
- Coconut oil
- Argan oil
- Avocado oil
Carrier oils
Carrier oils are non-volatile plant-based oils that play a crucial role in moisturizing formulations. Their primary function is to dilute essential oils, allowing for safe application on the skin. Since essential oils are highly concentrated, they must always be mixed with a carrier oil before use. Applied on their own, essential oils can cause irritation and even burns.
Choosing, storing, and applying oils
When it comes to selecting cosmetic oils, always opt for unrefined, organic, and ideally cold-pressed oils. Why? Because these types of oils contain the highest concentration of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals — essential elements for nourishing and protecting your skin.
Another key factor to check: the expiration date. An oil that’s past its prime loses its properties and may irritate your skin. Store your oils in a cool, dark place to slow down oxidation.
Pro tip: apply your oils at night! The skin produces less sebum while you sleep, making it the ideal time to maximize the benefits. Using oil in the morning might interfere with the absorption of your sunscreen, compromising its protective effect.
For application, just one or two drops are enough to cover your entire face. You can mix the oil with your moisturizer or apply it after hydrating your skin for better absorption. Remember, though, oil won’t replace your moisturizer.
The best oils for every skin type
Plant-based oils are extracted from oil-rich plants, such as fruits, nuts, or seeds, which are packed with lipids — commonly known as fatty acids. These fatty acids play a vital role in nourishing and caring for the skin, helping to maintain its elasticity, hydration, and protection against external aggressors. Each plant oil has a unique composition, which determines its specific properties.
The first step in selecting the right oil is correctly identifying your skin type. Depending on its needs, natural oils offer gentle nourishment while preserving the skin’s balance.
2 oils for dry skin
- Virgin flaxseed oil: Rich in fatty acids, it penetrates the skin to strengthen the skin barrier and offers anti-inflammatory properties, making it a valuable treatment for conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and redness.
- Argan oil: Packed with vitamin E, antioxidants, and rich in omega-3 and omega-6, it protects and repairs dry skin while providing long-lasting hydration, ideal for tight, uncomfortable skin.
2 oils for sensitive skin
- Calendula oil: Known for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, it calms irritation and redness while strengthening the skin barrier.
- Virgin coconut oil: It protects and tones the skin, helping to soothe irritation. However, it can be slightly comedogenic, so use with caution on sensitive skin prone to breakouts.
2 oils for combination skin
- Virgin sunflower oil: Rich in fatty acids, this oil is known for its ability to restore and strengthen the skin barrier.
- Virgin sesame oil: Packed with antioxidants, this oil helps prevent skin, wrinkles and dark spots. It’s both nourishing and soothing, making it ideal for massages or for after-sun care with its smooth, fast-absorbing texture.
Dealing with acne? Go for oils rich in linoleic or alpha-linolenic acids, which are lightweight and quickly absorbed. In addition to hydrating the skin, they are packed with antioxidants and help regulate enzymes responsible for excess sebum production. They also block DHT, a hormone often linked to acne, and alter the consistency of sebum, making it less likely to clog pores. Thanks to their high vitamin E content, these oils offer anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antibacterial properties.
2 oils for oily skin
- Jojoba oil: Very similar to natural sebum, it helps regulate its production and mattifies the complexion without weighing it down.
- Hazelnut oil: Lightweight and non-comedogenic, it absorbs quickly and helps control excess sebum, while its astringent properties refine pores.
For wounds and healing
- Extra virgin olive oil: Thanks to its monounsaturated fatty acids, it promotes fast wound healing while soothing inflammation. Its nourishing properties help maintain skin hydration, which is essential for proper healing.
Plant-based oils are exceptional for nourishing and protecting the skin, but it’s crucial to understand their properties before adding them to your routine. One important aspect to consider is their comedogenic rating, which ranges from 0 to 5 and indicates an oil’s potential to clog pores. A rating of zero suggests a very low risk of causing blackheads or breakouts, while higher ratings may increase the likelihood of developing comedones.
We encourage you to thoroughly research which oils are best suited for your skin type. If you’re uncertain or looking for personalized advice, don’t hesitate to consult an esthetician for professional guidance.
After all, by taking the time to choose the right oils for your skin, you’re giving it the best care possible... and trust us, your skin will thank you!