Facial Oils Explained By A Skin Expert

Don’t Be Scared

“Oils seem to intimidate and confuse people, but they offer a number of benefits – from reducing inflammation to increasing hydration and brightening the skin. They’re also full of antioxidants and antibacterial benefits, so they can improve the overall health of your complexion. They can also slot into your routine pretty easily: either apply them directly onto your skin or mix them with another product in the morning or evening – it all depends on your preference.”

Always Seek Advice

“Anyone can use an oil when it’s the right texture and consistency for them. That said, there are times an oil won’t work for you, so it could be worth seeking out professional advice on your routine before you proceed. This is key if you suffer with acne, rosacea or any other inflammatory conditions.”

Work Them Harder

“There are many ways to use an oil – for example, you can use them to work the muscles in your face. They allow enough slip for you to move effortlessly around your facial contours with something like a gua sha. Doing this helps the oil absorb properly. You can also use your oil to open up your lymphatic system. Do this by applying the oil and then gliding your hands down to each side of your neck (and down towards the collarbone) six to eight times. Then, bend your index and middle finger making a scissor shape, pinch the chin and slide along the jaw to the ear lobe, repeating this motion six times. Follow up by using the palm of your hands cupped over the cheekbone, sweeping upwards and outwards towards your hairline. Finish by flattening your hands and smoothing each one over the forehead eight to ten times, then bring them down to the sides of your face and neck.” 

Use Your Hands

“To nail the application, squeeze four to six drops of oil into the palm of your hands. Rub them together – this will warm up the consistency – then press the oil over your face and neck using a patting motion. This will help evenly disperse the oil so you’re never left feeling greasy.”

Apply After Cleansing

“If you’re using an oil, it should always be applied post-cleanse. This goes for any hydrating or active product – like serums – as they prepare your skin for everything else that follows. Whether you apply your facial oil before your moisturiser or after is a personal preference. Ideally you apply oils after your water-based products to lock in the goodness of anything applied afterwards. However, on occasions, I do recommend using two to three drops of facial oil straight after your serum (before a moisturiser or mixed with) if your skin is feeling lacklustre.”

Mix Them With Your Masks

“My favourite hack is to mix two drops of oil into your facial masks – or moisturisers – for an extra dose of hydration. I often add a couple of drops to my foundation for a dewier finish. On the nights I apply a facial oil before bed, I really take the time to work it into my skin, always using deep pressure massage movements. Doing so relieves tension from your face, in turn boosting blood flow and aiding lymphatic drainage.”

Choose Wisely

“While I believe in the benefits of oil, it is key to find the best one for you. For example, those who suffer with oiliness and congestion should look for ingredients like jojoba or rosehip for antibacterial benefits. You also want to use non-fragranced oils to avoid further irritation. For those suffering with dryness, look for oils that contain omegas and squalane to really feed your complexion with moisture. Anyone prone to sensitives should use a non-fragranced oil with a thin texture. There are so many variations, it’s worth getting it right.”

Switch It Up

“Facial oils can be incorporated into your routine every morning or evening. However, I do recommend mixing it up by swapping your oil for a rich moisturiser two or three times a week. Use three to six drops and press them into your skin after applying your serum – I recommend vitamin A-based ones most often as they maximise results.”

Remember Less Is More

“You don’t need to overload on oil. Four to six drops is more than enough to see results. I also wish everyone knew that not all oils behave in the same way. Their molecular bodyweight ranges from light to heavy and rich, so you can choose the right consistency to suit your skin. There are also oils that don’t contain scent or essential oils if you have an allergy. In other words, you can avoid any potential irritants, but still enjoy all the benefits of an oil if you choose wisely. Choose well and you’ll find it helps to stimulate cell turnover which can result in a clearer, healthier-looking complexion.”

Use Them At Night

“While they can be used in the morning, I find facial oils are best used at night. There’s more time in the evening to incorporate a facial massage, and this helps to calm and settle your skin tissue. As you sleep, your cell rejuvenation is better placed to reset. Using an oil before you hit the pillow will also help replace any lost moisture.” 

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