Many of us grew up using oil-free soap, oil-free moisturizer, and oil-free makeup on our faces. There are thousands of products on the market that make us inherently fearful of oil. So rubbing oil into your face might sound downright illogical and counterintuitive. But surprisingly, people with problematic skin have the most to gain from facial oils…especially during the winter months.
Chemically-produced commercial face soaps are designed to strip the skin of naturally-occurring oils, however, these oils actually do have a purpose. The body’s natural oils make the skin softer, more supple, and serve as a protective layer that keeps dirt out of your pores. When you strip those natural oils away, your skin is left unprotected and vulnerable, which leads to breakouts, dryness, and enlarged pores. So are you ready to re-think the way you clean your face?
According Amala Skincare founder, Ute Leube, “Essential fatty acids are crucial to replenishing and maintaining the hydration and nourishment levels of the skin. And since the body can’t make them itself, it’s important to get them from outside sources such as face oil.” Natural face oils are more effective at moisturizing than most heavy creams because they can calm, hydrate, and rejuvenate skin without irritating it.
One great option to try is our Seagate Smooth Skin, an omega-3 shark liver oil based skin ointment mixed with natural vitamin E and olive, coconut, and vanilla oil. These ingredients soothe dry skin, help clear rashes, and are a natural alternative for fighting germs. Smooth Skin is great for nighttime use helping with acne, wrinkles, burned skin, sun damaged skin, and as a regular moisturizer. And of course, each ingredient is naturally-occurring, chemical free, and safe to apply and absorb with any greasy residue.
These are some other great oils to try, based on your specific skin condition:
- Tea tree oil – good for clearing up acne
- Grapeseed oil – good for regulating naturally-oily skin
- Black currant oil – good for repairing sun and wind damaged skin
- Chamomile oil – good for sensitive and inflamed skin
- Jojoba oil – good for daily use and unclogging pores
- Aragan oil – good for wrinkles
- Rose hip seed oil – good for discoloration and scar healing
Now that the winter season is in full swing, it’s time to stop being afraid of oil and start embracing it. But be wary of inexpensive oils that have additives, byproducts, and that have undergone refining processes that strip them of their natural healing powers. As holistic facialist Julia March advises, “Less-processed means better quality and higher price. With oils you get what you pay for.”