Do you remember the first time you popped a pimple? And the barrage of skincare advice that followed it? Since our teenage years, it has been drilled into our minds that the CTM routine is a must-do. Cleansing, toning and moisturising are the three pillars of skincare. But given the demands of modern lifestyle, the basic skincare routine has evolved to include more products. A skin serum helps make the moisturiser more effective and make its hydration long lasting. Sunscreens are also on top of our priority list, and we don’t step out of our home without a generous layer of sunscreen. So, where do facial oils figure in all of this?

What comprises facial oils?

Facial oils are generally plant-based but synthetic oils are also available. Most brands use essential oils or a blend of essential oils along with a carrier oil to make facial oils. However oils are not the only ingredients in them. They contain other potent ingredients such as essential fatty acids, like linoleic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid and oleic acid along with vitamin C and E. Together these ingredients help the skin to retain moisture, fight free radicals, keep dryness at bay and keep sun damage to a minimum. When used in the right way, facial oils can enhance the performance of your other skincare products, too.

Who can use facial oils?

They are meant for all skin types. Yes, you read that right. All skin types, including oily skin. So, if you have oily and acne prone skin, there is no need to shy away from them. Contrary to belief, facial oils can actually help you get rid of acne. Certain oils such as squalane, tea tree and jojoba have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. They also help reduce sebum production and keep your pores clean and unclogged. 

If you have dry and flaky skin, and if this condition worsens during winters, you can definitely include facial oils in your daily routine. Facial oils also work equally well on combination skin types. Although they are designed for your face, you can apply them on your skin in any other area, especially if you are facing winter-related dryness. 

Regular use of facial oils makes seasonal transition easier for your skin and helps it maintain its radiance.  

How do facial oils work?

You might have come across the term ‘humectant’ on one of your skincare products. A humectant is an ingredient that locks the moisture obtained from a moisturiser into your skin and keeps it supple for long. This helps your skin remain hydrated and lessens the need to reapply the moisturiser. Facial oils effectively fulfil the role of a humectant, and complement the efforts of your daily moisturiser. They provide a protective coat on your skin, so water cannot evaporate from the surface of your skin, allowing their inherent emollient properties to do the rest of the work.

How to apply facial oil?

Start with double cleansing your face. Follow this up with a toner. Once the toner is dry, apply a skin serum. It is advisable to have a hyaluronic acid-based skin serum as it is one of the most widely used humectants in skincare. Hyaluronic acid pairs well with facial oils and enhances their performance. Take a few drops of facial oil with a dropper and gently massage it onto your face. Wait for it to settle, and follow it up with a moisturiser. Complete your skincare routine with sunscreen. Make sure that you are pausing for five minutes after every step to ensure optimum absorption of the product. You can repeat the entire process for your nighttime routine, too, barring the sunscreen step. You will start noticing a change in the texture and tone of your skin within a fortnight of following this routine. 

Are facial oils worth the hype?

We would go with a resounding yes! Endorsed by dermatologists and aestheticians, facial oils are not just a fad but an important part of your daily skincare routine. Based on your skin type, you need to identify the right one that works best for you. Using the right facial oil is essential for achieving good results for your skin. In case you are unable to determine which one is good for you, consult your dermatologist. 

Here’s how your skin will benefit from facial oils

• Keeps the skin hydrated for long by trapping in the moisture

• Enhances the capability of your moisturiser

• Keeps your skin feeling radiant and soft for long

• Works on your skin’s texture and evens tone 

• Keeps sebum production under check 

• Its anti-inflammatory properties keeps acne and breakouts in check

• Its antioxidants have anti-ageing benefits

• Soothes sensitive skin and skin prone to rashes

So, get started with facial oils and create a customised skincare routine for yourself!

Disclaimer: The above content is for informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for the advice of a qualified physician or doctor. The Company does not vouch for or endorse any of the above content, and disclaims any and all warranties, express or implied, relating to the same.