OILS IN SKINCARE: INGREDIENT DEEP DIVE

Hi, babes! Emma here, and get ready to pour some love out for oils, because that's our topic for today. Let's jump right in then, shall we? 

For all skin types, a face oil can offer several essential qualities. They support the skin barrier, contain vitamins, and keep moisture in the skin, among other things. Depending on its structure, an oil may have different qualities and textures.

On cleansed skin, an oil can be used alone or as a base for a moisturising cream, similar to how a serum is applied. It gives the skin vitamins and nutrients that can reach the higher layers of the skin. Oils are frequently combined with other substances, most of which are water-soluble, to create creams and lotions. 

The type, needs, and condition of the skin all influence the oil choice. Body and face creams frequently contain a variety of oils since the skin might benefit from a combination of oils with various fatty acid compositions. Always consider a product's entire makeup, as this could impact the outcome.

Here are some oils you can include in your routine for a lovely glow and nourished skin. 

ARGAN OIL

Argan oil is a type of plant oil that is obtained from the kernels of the fruit pit of the Moroccan argan tree, also known as Argania spinosa. Cold pressing is the customary method for extracting oil, which involves applying mechanical pressure with little to no added heat. Argan oil's rising recognition and demand have prompted the development of solvent-based, industrialised extraction techniques.

Although argan oil is most recognised for its ability to improve the appearance of dry, dull skin, it has also been used to treat acne because it is non-comedogenic and won't make the face feel greasy.

Polyphenols and vitamin E, two powerful antioxidants that aid in preventing environmental damage, are abundant in argan oil. Due to its anti-aging and skin-softening qualities, this vitamin is well-liked in the skincare industry. Both aid in the removal of free radicals, preserving the youthfulness of the skin.

The fact that fatty acids like oleic and linoleic acids are anti-inflammatory is another advantage. This not only makes it a choice for soothing irritated skin, but also for acne treatment because of its anti-inflammatory characteristics and non-comedogenic status, which won't leave the skin feeling oily.

All skin types can typically use argan oil because it is lightweight and won't leave the skin feeling greasy. Those with dry skin will benefit from its hydrating benefits, while those with oily skin may also find it tolerable. Once more, it's a myth that only dry skin requires moisture. Skin needs hydration for everyone.

Argan oil offers the skin's outer layer repairing and sealing, which not only enhances appearance but also guards against further drying and harm. It accomplishes this by preventing the transepidermal water loss that is brought on by damage to the skin's outermost barrier—literally, moisture escaping from the skin and evaporating into the atmosphere.

Argan oil generally has no negative side effects. Even though some people may suffer some slight sensitivity, it is generally well tolerated. If you have an inflammatory skin problem, however, continue with caution because external oils can make things worse. For example, oils applied to the skin's surface can aggravate seborrheic dermatitis.

CASTOR OIL 

Have you already benefited from castor oil's potential advantages? You might be in for a vitamin-rich treat even if you already apply it to your hair, brows, and eyelashes. No, castor oil is recommended by many experts for delivering a healthy, moisturised complexion in addition to its benefits for your hair.

Castor oil, which is extracted from the seeds of the tropical Ricinus communis plant, is thicker and more goopy than argan or coconut oil, and this may make it a more potent replenisher for skin and hair. But that is not where the narrative ends.

Castor oil's therapeutic benefits are considered to have been recognised as early as ancient Egypt, when the oil was widely regarded as an immunity-booster elixir. It remains a cornerstone of Ayurvedic treatment. Reviewing its attributes explains why.

Although there is little evidence to support these claims and there is a major difference of opinion among skin experts, castor oil is rarely used as a first-line treatment since it is sometimes credited with facilitating the penetration of other skin care products into the skin.

Not only that, castor oil is a preferred ingredient for homemade brow and lash serums since it is thought to stimulate hair growth. Swap out your eye makeup remover for castor oil, remove the day's mascara, and let the castor oil lightly coat your lashes to extend and protect them. This will give you longer lashes.

Castor oil is traditionally used for its purported healing properties for eczema, dermatitis, rosacea, psoriasis, and other skin disorders, as if preventing wrinkles and accelerating hair growth weren't enough. Castor oil is greatly appreciated for inflamed skin.

Castor oil also provides the benefit of a potential dual-action strategy due to its concentration of ricinoleic acid, which is naturally antibacterial. The oil may assist to moisturise skin while also fighting microorganisms, breaking the cycle of itch and irritation.

Applying castor oil topically has the potential to irritate the skin. Skin rashes, itching, irritation, swelling, and hives are a few side effects of topical castor oil use that may indicate an allergic reaction. When experimenting with new chemicals, it is always advised to perform a 24-hour patch test to rule out any potential sensitivities.

Before you start pouring out castor oil on every possible inch of your body, though, keep in mind to dilute it with another oil as it can take a while to penetrate the skin on its own.

JOJOBA OIL

Natural jojoba oil is made from the seeds of the drought-tolerant Chinensis plant, which is found in southern Arizona, California, and Mexico. Although its popularity in beauty products is a relatively new phenomena, it has been around for centuries; Native Americans first employed it for its ability to heal wounds in the early 1400s. However, this is where things get a little murky because jojoba oil isn't actually an oil. Jojoba oil imitates natural sebum in this way because it conditions and seals in moisture without blocking pores or aggravating acne.

What is the other effect of this oil not being true oil? Compared to most oils, it is more stable and has a longer shelf life. It should come as no surprise that it may be found in a variety of skincare, haircare, and makeup products given these factors plus the fact that it gets along so well with the majority of other substances.

Even the jojoba beads used in exfoliators, which are a well-liked and significantly more environmentally friendly alternative to synthetic microbeads, are made from, you guessed it, jojoba oil.

Jojoba oil is a superb emollient, softening and smoothing your skin, just like other oils are. Additionally, it contributes to the protection of the skin barrier by lowering trans-epidermal water loss and sealing in moisture when paired with occlusive substances like beeswax.

Vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant that protects the skin from oxidative damage, which contributes to the appearance of ageing, is abundant in jojoba oil, as well as flavonoids.

Dealing with rosacea, eczema, or an inherently delicate complexion? In order to lessen redness and maintain calm, relaxed skin, jojoba oil is a lifesaver. The oil is a good source of B-complex vitamins, vitamin E, and other nutrients in addition to vitamin E. Because of these vitamins and the anti-inflammatory properties, jojoba oil has been used by Native Americans for thousands of years to treat wounds.

Jojoba oil is the best for acne-prone skin. To begin with, it's non-comedogenic and won't clog pores, which are crucial qualities to look for if you have oily skin but still want to use an oil. Two, you're benefiting from all those anti-inflammatory advantages (as well as potential antibacterial qualities, though more research is needed), which can both help prevent breakouts. Last but not least, it can regulate the natural oil production of your skin.

In general, this particular component has no real disadvantages. Jojoba oil typically has a low risk of causing irritation and is well tolerated. Rarely, it can result in a rash or response, which is typically a sign of a true allergy. Before using a new product all over your face, you can test it out on a small test area if you want to be extra cautious.

OLIVE OIL

The oil from an entire olive fruit is extracted to create olive oil. It contains antioxidants that are good for the skin as well as monounsaturated fatty acids, which are healthy fats with a number of health and cosmetic advantages.

The main advantage of olive oil is that it keeps skin moisturised by preventing water loss. By increasing the water content of the skin, moisturising results in better skin health and appearance. Olive oil's antioxidant capabilities shield skin cells from oxidative stress and inflammation, delaying the appearance of irritation or redness as well as early ageing.

Squalene and the vitamins A, D, K, and E are all abundant in olive oil. These may help to lessen skin's oxidative stress (which could lead to accelerated skin ageing).

Waxy products like waterproof mascara and eyeliner can be easily broken down by olive oil. It moisturises the sensitive skin around the eyes, as well as nourishes eyelashes in a similar way to how conditioner does for hair, thanks to antioxidants and moisturising squalene. While olive oil can transfer oil-soluble residues (such makeup and sebum) across the skin, it does not always remove the makeup. Therefore, both the olive oil and the broken-down makeup should be removed using a cleanser.

Triterpenes, which are found in many plant oils but particularly in olive oil, support a variety of biological processes including cell migration, cell proliferation, and collagen deposition, all of which are crucial for wound healing. By shortening the time needed for wound closure, they improve wound repair.

While olive oil can be beneficial for all skin types, experts advise against taking it if you have acne-prone or congested skin. Olive oil, as well as all other plant oils and butters in general, contains a lot of fatty acids, which act as a food supply for yeasts and bacteria that cause acne. Olive oil is not recommended for skin that is prone to acne. Olive oil's oleic acid component can aggravate dermatitis and shouldn't be used on young children.

Olive oil also shouldn't be used as a makeup remover on its own because it doesn't seem to have the same antibacterial properties as some other plant oils, most notably coconut oil. Last but not least, if your skin tends to be oily, it naturally produces significant quantities of sebum, which may negate the need for additional emollients for you.

Due to its occlusive and emollient characteristics, olive oil performs best when the skin is well moisturised, which is usually the final stage of your routine (in the day, use just before sunscreen).

ROSEHIP OIL

Rosehip oil, sometimes referred to as rosehip seed oil, is a pressed seed oil that has been prized since ancient times for its numerous healing benefits. People with sensitive skin can benefit greatly from using it.

Rosehip oil is renowned for its outstanding regeneration and healing capabilities because of its high concentrations of vitamins A, B, and E. Rosehip seed oil, which is rich in vitamin C, can brighten skin, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and fight free radicals in the skin.

A 2015 study discovered that applying rosehip oil to patients after surgery reduced the appearance of their scars significantly. Rosehip oil is also the go-to for hydration since it contains linoleic acid as well as several other vital fatty acids, which deeply moisturise and hydrate the skin.

Rosehip oil can be quite helpful for persons suffering from rosacea, eczema, and other inflammatory skin conditions since it is high in vitamin E and anthocyanin, two substances that can soothe and reduce irritation.

Rosehip oil can be beneficial for acne-prone skin because it contains anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial qualities as well as a low comedogenicity. 

Rosehip oil has no known side effects and is generally safe for all skin types. However, a patch test should always be performed before adding any new product to your daily routine.

Rosehip oil can be used as a standalone moisturiser or as a base for other, more potent face oils. Even while it is included into various skincare products, rosehip oil is most frequently found in its pure form, appropriate for skin application. This oil should be kept in a cold, dark spot and packaged in a dark, amber-colored bottle to protect it from UV rays, which could reduce the efficacy of the product if exposed.

HEMP SEED OIL

The final oil we’ll be talking about today is hemp seed oil. Hemp seed oil is made only from hemp seeds, as opposed to hemp oil, which is a catch-all phrase for all oils derived from hemp and may contain cannabidiol (CBD) oil.

Conversely, hemp's leaves, stalks, and flowers are used to make CBD oil (and sometimes seeds as well). Hemp Seed oil is an oil made from the seeds of the cannabis plant known as hemp, which is grown for purposes other than drug production. The oil is safe and widely used in skin oils, cosmetics, and dietary supplements. When it contains less than 0.3 percent tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), it can be used legally.

As previously indicated, other forms of hemp oil are high in cannabinoids, while hemp seed oil often has no to few cannabinoids and is primarily composed of omega fatty acids. Therefore, if you were concerned that hemp seed oil might cause you to feel high, you won't. It's already present in a number of skincare items, and you can eat it.

Omega acids 3, 6, and 9, which are abundant in hemp seed oil, aid in repairing the skin barrier and create a seal over the skin to retain moisture in. In addition, it is a humectant, drawing moisture to the skin.

Fatty acids included in hemp seed oil aid to moisturise and calm irritated skin. For those with acne-prone skin or very oily skin, it may even control the production of skin oils.

As a hydrator and anti-inflammatory, hemp seed oil is naturally used in a variety of cosmetic goods. Because it is so successful at reducing inflammation, I especially enjoy using it in conjunction with retinoids or after acids. Acne and redness are both greatly improved by it. Use as much as you would any other oil when determining how much to apply.

There you go, babes, the rundown on oils. I hope this encourages you to try adding an oil to your routine if some of the benefits appeal to you.

Bye for now!

Love,

Emma 

xxxx