Although it may seem counterproductive to use skin care products containing oil when you have acne, some formulas actually clear rather than clog your pores. If you've been struggling with blemishes, here's what you need to know about the benefits of oil based products and how to best incorporate them in your everyday skincare routine!
Wait, Our Skin Needs More Oil?!
Our complexions naturally produce oil to keep the skin well-hydrated. If you have oily skin, overproduction can lead to clogged pores, blackheads and blemishes. However, even when this happens, cleansers and toners remove the substance from the skin, triggering the release of even more oil and the resulting skin issues. Oil skin products and other moisturizers balance your complexion and lock in hydration so your skin stays soft, supple and smooth without unwanted shine or melting makeup! They also add a layer of protection that shields your skin from environmental free radicals and UV rays that accelerate aging and increase the risk for cancer. So yes, our skin needs more of the right oil!
What Are the Benefits of Oil Based Skin Care?
Different types of oils have different effects on the skin, from fighting acne to smoothing and brightening your complexion. For example, organic acne oil contains ingredients that combat bacteria, eliminate redness and soothe skin while you sleep! The lavender, black cumin seed and rosehip are key. These nutrients are high in linoleic acid, a certain type of fatty acid produced by the skin. Clinical studies show that people with lower levels of linoleic acid often have oily, acne-prone skin. Linoleic acid also helps fight hyperpigmentation, dark spots and sun damage.
Look for oils rich in vitamin E to further improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and other signs of aging. If you have an oily complexion, a formula with zinc provides the balance you need for beautiful, healthy skin. This mineral also helps your complexion heal and repair itself, which can resolve blemishes and any other redness. Blemish busted!
How Should I Incorporate Oil in My Skin Care Routine?
Gentle natural oils can be used morning and night after cleansing and toning. Start with your favorite vegan face wash, rinse skin completely clean and follow up with a toner to rebalance skin and prepare it for hydration. Early in the day, use oil before your regular sunscreen (which should be applied every day, even when it's cold and cloudy).
At night, oil can be the last step after you cleanse, tone and add your fave serums and spot treatments as needed! Store oil based skin care formulas at room temperature and away from light and open air. Heat, sun and oxygen can degrade these products and limit their effectiveness. Winter is an *excellent* time to incorporate oil into your complexion routine, since wind and chill often leave skin feeling dry and looking dull.
With the right ingredients and proper use, oil based skin care products can totally help give you a clear, bright complexion even if you tend to be a bit on the oily side! Choosing high-quality products that are rich in rosehip and other sources of linoleic acid is your best bet to take advantage of this beauty trend we’re loving!
