Believe it or not, oil can be one of the best things for your complexion. If we’re honest, the thought of using an oil as a moisturiser can be a bit scary, but don’t be afraid.
Bondi beauty spoke to Omniderm Skincare Expert, Sue Dann (National Training Manager) distributor for Dr. Spiller.
1) Why would we use an oil instead of a moisturiser?Our skin’s natural protective barrier is in fact an oil. Known as sebum, this nutrient rich moisture protective is rich in nourishing triglycerides to prevent water loss and to protect the skin. Oils effectively waterproof the skin increasing its hydration abilities and comfort.
2) Aren’t oils oily? How do we stop that greasy feeling?Sebum, the skin’s natural oil creates a fine breathable network on the skin’s surface. Using botanically sourced oils such as jojoba, sweet almond and grape seed can replicate this light, non-greasy network. Many synthetic oils used in cosmetics can create a film forming effect creating a heavy and greasy feel. Just a drop or two of facial oil should effortlessly absorb and protect the skin without a greasy feel or appearance.
Many synthetic oils used in cosmetics can create a film forming effect creating a heavy and greasy feel.
3) What is the difference between a cooking oil and a face oil?
Facial oils are specifically formulated to be non-comedogenic, meaning the blend of oils used will not clog the skin. Whilst many cooking oils such as vegetable, coconut and wheat germ are naturally sourced, they are proven to cause breakouts and congestion. Although oils such as macadamia, sunflower and safflower can be used in cooking, they are popular in skin care as they cannot or will not clog the skin. Any oil or ingredient used in a cosmetic is highly refined and of a high grade to reduce any potential reaction or breakouts.
4) When can we use oils (morning/night/every time we cleanse)?
Whilst cleansing oils are gaining popularity, it is always important to tone and remove any residue afterwards. Water based serums are unable to penetrate otherwise. Facial oils may be used both morning and night directly after toning or over the top of a water-based serum. One or two drops are all that is required and will easily absorb with no heavy after-feel. The application of a moisturiser over the top can further enhance skin comfort and the hydration potential of the oil.
One or two drops are all that is required and will easily absorb with no heavy after-feel.
5) Are they particularly good if we are in water a lot ( eg swimming daily then showering)?One of the key purposes of sebum, our skin’s natural oil is to waterproof the skin. Without it, the skin’s natural hydration would simply evaporate causing chronic dehydration and sensitivity. The application of a facial and body oil prior to swimming prevents water loss from the skin. ‘Wrinkle’ fingers and toes after swimming or having a bath are signs of dehydration and may be reduced by adding a bath oil directly to the water or a protective massaged all over the skin.
6) What are the different types of face oils and what do we need to be aware of and careful of?Different types of face oils are designed to target and protect different skin types. A dry skin requires more intensive nourishment than an oily and therefore will use richer ingredients. The addition of essential oils can further customise the oil’s abilities. Tea tree and ylang ylang are particularly effective for breakouts and imbalance whilst bergamot and grapefruit can stimulate sluggish, mature skins. Omega 6 anti-inflammatory rich base oils such as borage and avocado are particularly effective to calm and sooth angry, sensitised conditions.
A dry skin requires more intensive nourishment than an oily and therefore will use richer ingredients
- 7) Tell us some things we may not know about oils?
- Sebaceous glands are most abundant on the forehead and chin – around 400-900 per cm2.
- The skin naturally produces vitamin E, an antioxidant oil with UV protective qualities.
- Men’s skin produces more oil than women’s.
- Beeswax has excellent antiseptic qualities.
- Chocolate and pizza consumption have no effect on oil production or breakouts.
Omniderm Skincare Expert, Sue Dann (National Training Manager) distributor for Dr. Spiller & Alex Cosmetics Herbal Aktiv Peel