We’ve come such a long way with skincare that we’re now quick to raise red flags. Frankly, certain products still get a bad rap, like pore strips and peel-off masks. But do face oils deserve all that wrath? Initially seen as ultra-hydrating skincare products, face oils now have a bad reputation because they tend to cause breakouts. Adding more oil to your already acne-prone oily skin sounds like a bad idea – hypothetically!
What if we told you there was a way around it? There were some tricks and tips that can help you enjoy all the benefits of a nourishing face oil, without the dreaded accompaniment of acne. Keep reading to learn more.
What are face oils?
Face oils are oil-based liquid skincare products usually containing botanical and essential oils. These oils are designed to lock in hydration to the skin and improve one’s complexion. Some oils also boast pure plant extracts & antioxidants, active ingredients that give additional skin benefits like fighting the signs of ageing and hyperpigmentation.
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How can I use face oils without breaking out?
Opt for lightweight oils.
No matter what your skin type is, you can never go wrong with a lightweight face oil. These oils won’t clog your pores and absorb into your skin much faster. It is also essential to avoid heavy oils during summer since they can clog your pores. Once the weather gets warmer, stay away from using oils such as avocado and coconut because they are heavier on your pores. We recommend using grapeseed oil since it’s very light on the skin! A bonus: grapeseed oil also contains vitamin E and antioxidants, which can help reverse sun damage and hyperpigmentation.
Apply your oils after your most active products.
When it comes to skincare, the order in which you apply your products makes all the difference. This is because your skin absorbs different products and formulas differently. As such, you can rest assured that you get the utmost benefits from your products.
So, when it comes to face oils, it’s best to apply them after you put on all your skincare actives. If you have exfoliants or antioxidants, use them first. Going from the lightest to the heaviest formulas is essential for optimum absorption. And since face oils are heavier than serums and moisturisers, they should be the last ones you apply.
Use your face oils before bed.
If your skin is too keen on producing oil, it’s best to skip your face oils in the morning. This way, the face oils can fully penetrate your skin without getting in the way of your day. Oils also take longer to absorb into the skin because they have a higher molecular composition. So, before you hit the sack, apply a layer of face oil as the last step of your routine. But of course, don’t forget your sunscreen and lightweight moisturiser in the morning!
Don’t overdo it.
Like any skincare product, using too much face oil will only harm your skin more than good. Face oils tend to mimic your natural oil production and when there’s too much, your skin will think it doesn’t need to produce its own sebum. This will cause extreme dryness and irritation since your skin needs natural lubrication. Our tip: Start with a small amount of face oil, then increase it until you find the right balance for your skin.