Should You Add Oils to Your Routine? Understanding Face Oils for Every Skin Type

Face oils have become increasingly popular in the skincare world, with many people swearing by their ability to deeply hydrate and nourish the skin. However, if you’re new to face oils or unsure whether they’re right for your skin type, it’s essential to understand how they work and which oils are best suited to your specific skincare needs.

We’ll break down everything you need to know about face oils, from their benefits to how to choose the right one for your skin type. We’ll also recommend some of the best face oils available on the market that cater to different skin concerns and needs.

What Are Face Oils and How Do They Work?

Face oils are concentrated botanical or synthetic oils that are packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and fatty acids. They act as a barrier to lock in moisture, keep the skin hydrated, and provide extra nourishment. Additionally, face oils can deliver key active ingredients directly to the skin, promoting a healthy, glowing complexion.

Why Should You Consider Using a Face Oil?

1. Deep Hydration: Oils are perfect for providing long-lasting hydration, particularly for dry or dehydrated skin.
2. Skin Barrier Protection: Oils help to reinforce the skin’s natural barrier, protecting it from environmental stressors like pollution.
3. Soothing and Calming: Many oils have anti-inflammatory properties that can help calm irritated or sensitive skin.
4. Glowing Complexion: Oils provide a radiant, dewy finish that can revive dull skin.
5. Targeted Treatment: Depending on the oil, you can address specific skin concerns, such as acne, pigmentation, or signs of aging.

Choosing the Right Face Oil for Your Skin Type

Not all oils are created equal, and some are better suited for specific skin types and concerns. Below, we’ll discuss which oils work best for different skin types and how to incorporate them into your skincare routine.

For Dry Skin: Nourishing and Hydrating Oils

If you have dry skin, you’ll want oils that are rich in fatty acids and antioxidants to help restore moisture and nourishment.

Recommended Product:

• Tatcha The Camellia Beauty Oil
• Benefits: This luxurious oil is rich in camellia oil, known for its deeply moisturizing properties. It also contains vitamin E and green tea extract, which help to nourish and protect dry skin.
• How to Use: Apply 2-3 drops to your face after your serum and before your moisturizer. Gently massage into the skin to lock in hydration.
• Where to Buy: Sephora

For Oily Skin: Lightweight and Non-Comedogenic Oils

If you have oily or acne-prone skin, you might be hesitant to add oils to your routine. However, oils like jojoba or squalane can help regulate oil production and balance your skin without clogging pores.

Recommended Product:

• The Ordinary 100% Plant-Derived Squalane
• Benefits: This lightweight oil hydrates without feeling greasy. It mimics the skin’s natural oils, making it perfect for balancing oily skin while providing moisture.
• How to Use: Apply 2-3 drops to your face after your serum. It can be used morning and night.
• Where to Buy: The Ordinary, Sephora

For Sensitive Skin: Soothing and Calming Oils

If you have sensitive skin, it’s crucial to choose oils that are calming and won’t trigger irritation or redness. Oils that are gentle and anti-inflammatory, such as rosehip oil or chamomile oil, are ideal.

Recommended Product:

• Pai Skincare Rosehip BioRegenerate Oil
• Benefits: Rosehip oil is known for its ability to soothe sensitive skin and reduce redness. It’s rich in essential fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamin A, which help to improve skin texture and calm irritation.
• How to Use: After cleansing and toning, apply a few drops to your face and massage gently. Use it in the evening for the best results.
• Where to Buy: Pai Skincare, Cult Beauty

For Mature Skin: Anti-Aging and Firming Oils

For mature skin, oils that are high in antioxidants and vitamins, such as argan oil or evening primrose oil, are great for reducing fine lines and promoting elasticity.

Recommended Product:

• Kiehl’s Midnight Recovery Concentrate
• Benefits: This overnight oil is rich in lavender, primrose, and squalane. It helps to hydrate, repair, and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while you sleep.
• How to Use: Use 2-3 drops in the evening after cleansing. Massage gently into your skin, focusing on areas where you have fine lines or dryness.
• Where to Buy: Kiehl’s, Sephora

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Use Face Oils

1. Cleanse Your Face

Start with a clean base by using a gentle cleanser that suits your skin type. This helps to remove dirt, oil, and makeup, creating the perfect canvas for your skincare products.

2. Apply Toner (Optional)

If you use a toner, apply it next to balance your skin’s pH and add an extra layer of hydration.

3. Use Your Serum

Serums should be applied before oils because they have smaller molecules and can penetrate deeper into the skin. Choose a serum based on your skin’s needs, whether it’s for hydration, brightening, or anti-aging.

4. Apply Your Face Oil

Now that your skin is prepped, take a few drops of face oil and warm it between your palms. Gently press the oil onto your face, starting from the center and moving outwards. Be sure to massage it into your skin in circular motions for better absorption.

5. Follow with a Moisturizer (If Needed)

If your face oil is quite lightweight, you may want to follow it with a moisturizer to lock in the hydration and give an extra layer of protection to your skin. However, if your face oil is rich enough, you can skip the moisturizer.

Benefits of Adding Oils to Your Routine

1. Enhanced Moisture Retention: Face oils lock in moisture, ensuring your skin stays hydrated for longer.
2. Improved Skin Texture: Regular use of nourishing oils can smooth rough patches, reduce redness, and refine the texture of your skin.
3. Anti-Aging: Many oils are rich in vitamins like Vitamin A, C, and E, which help fight the signs of aging by promoting collagen production and protecting against free radicals.
4. Calm and Soothe: Face oils like rosehip and chamomile can reduce inflammation, making them great for sensitive or irritated skin.
5. Glow Boost: A good facial oil gives your skin a radiant, dewy glow that makes it look fresh and rejuvenated.

Should You Add Face Oils to Your Routine?

The addition of face oils can provide your skin with the ultimate hydration, nourishment, and glow. However, choosing the right oil for your skin type is essential to reap the full benefits. Whether you have dry, oily, sensitive, or mature skin, there’s a face oil that can work wonders for you. Remember to start with a few drops, as oils are concentrated and can go a long way.

Where to Buy:

• Sephora (www.sephora.com)
• Cult Beauty (www.cultbeauty.co.uk)
• Ulta Beauty (www.ulta.com)
• Pai Skincare (www.paiskincare.com)

Adding face oils to your routine can be a game-changer, especially for those looking for a radiant, nourished complexion. Whether you’re hydrating dry skin, calming sensitivity, or fighting signs of aging, face oils can give your skin the boost it needs to look healthy, balanced, and glowing.