The best face oils - and why you should be using one right now
A bad experience with a face oil can be enough to put you off them for good. If it’s poorly blended it can leave your skin with a greasy film, while aromatherapy blends can cause irritation and redness. And, if you’re partial to self-tan then oil is a no-go as it can lift the colour and leave you with a patchy finish.
Yet, and it is a big ‘yet’, there is so much to be gained from employing an oil. Not only are plant-based formulas a good source of antioxidants to feed and protect skin, but they are also lipophilic and more easily absorbed into the lipid layer, locking in moisture. Then there is the process of massaging oil into your skin, which boosts circulation and leaves you with a plumper, healthier glow.
In the colder months, a good oil can replenish your skin and despite popular belief it won't make oily skin produce more oil. In fact, it can help rebalance your oil production and prevent breakouts. Here are the skin-boosting formulas we recommend exploring...
The best facial oils
The best oil booster: Paula's Choice Resist Moisture Renewal Oil Booster, ￡36
The beauty of a booster is that it can be used alone or you can simply put two drops into your serum or moisturiser if and when your skin is feeling particularly dry. In true Paula's Choice style, this formula is loaded with active ingredients, including antioxidants to help protect your skin.
The classic face oil: Trilogy Certified Organic Rosehip Oil, ￡19.50
Rosehip oil has been proven to help smooth out your skin tone and boost moisture levels. In terms of efficacy, Trilogy's formula remains unrivalled. From replenishing to protecting, it's second to none and you can also use it on stretch marks and scars all over your body. Plus, the formula is natural and organic.
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The weekly face oil treatment: Elemis Superfood Facial Oil, ￡45
In keeping with its name and list of ingredients, including broccoli, flax seed and radish, you should think of this oil as food for your skin. Three drops will be enough for your face and neck area, but remember to apply your serum beforehand as oil seals your skin.
Beauty editor's favourite: Rodin Luxury Face Oil, ￡105
This is eye-wateringly expensive, but when the seasons change and your skin starts to feel dry yet oily and breakout, there is nothing quite like this oil to help reset the balance. Use it in the evening instead of your night cream and you'll notice a difference within a week.
How to make your face oil work harder...
Face oils and massage go hand-in-hand, but a roller can help supercharge any formula. Whether you opt for a Yu Ling Jade Double Roller, ￡43, or The Body Shop Twin-Ball Face Massager, ￡16, you'll notice a difference as these help encourage lymphatic drainage and reduce puffiness, especially around the eyes and jawline.