While you may think that because you have oily or combination skin you definitely don’t need to add a face oil to your skincare routine, it’s actually not as simple as that. You too could benefit from this instantly skin-comforting product.

Yes, your skin naturally produces oil (sebum) but by adding a face oil, you don’t automatically make your skin oiler. You are more at risk of doing this by stripping the skin with harsh cleansers and not moisturising properly, as this can force the skin to overcompensate and produce excess oil. Counterproductive, right?

It’s all about choosing the right oil for your skin type 

When considering what face oil to try, it’s important to go for one that’s specifically designed to penetrate the skin. While some oils, such as coconut oil, are brilliant for many things, they  are highly comedogenic, meaning  they tend to block pores and cause blackheads. Something like jojoba  oil, which is lightweight and has a similar make-up to human sebum – meaning it’s less likely to build up on the skin and clog pores – is ideal for most skin types. Antioxidant- and vitamin-rich ingredients, such as evening primrose and apricot oil, are great for dry and rough skin. If you have extremely dry skin, try CBD oil – current research suggests that when applied topically, it works as an anti-inflammatory.

Try Skin Creamery Facial Hydrating Oil 30 ml

A face oil has many benefits 

From protecting the skin from the environmental stressors we face day to day, to soothing and healing, preventing and treating fine lines, and adding a perfect glow to dull skin. An oil locks in any other products you have used and prevents moisture loss. But when do you use a face oil  in your skincare routine? It’s simple – it should be the last thing you put on your skin, unless you’re using it during the day, then you should always apply sunscreen over it.

A little goes a long way
Use only a few drops, dab and pat into the skin, allowing the oil to be absorbed into the pores. Also spot treat areas with Lulu and Marula Purifying Face Treatment Oil R430, which contains anti-bacterial ingredients that prevent breakouts and help to reduce dark marks caused by post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

Give your beard some love 

Not only will your facial hair benefit from a beard oil by being conditioned, it will look tamer and feel much softer too. An added benefit is the skin beneath will also get some much-needed moisture and thank you for the extra TLC.

Try The Bluebeards Revenge Classic Blend Beard Oil, takealot.com

Oils are hydrating 

You won’t be blamed for thinking that hydration requires water not oil, but a face oil acts as a sort of barrier for the skin, preventing moisture loss and aiding in the hydration of the skin.

Try Clarins Plant Gold Nutri-Revitalizing Oil-Emulsion

Facial massage is for everyone…

Absolutely everyone from men and women to babies can benefit from massage. And not only is it excellent for relaxation, but it’s rejuvenating too! When you incorporate regular facial massage into your routine you will notice benefits such as de-puffing around the eye area and a boosted glow. Face massage also triggers collagen production by stimulating blood flow, which brings oxygen to the area. A face oil is the perfect massage enabler as it allows for easy movement with less friction on the skin. There are plenty of easy-to-follow videos on facial massage available online, but here are some pointers to get you started:

•  Use a massage tool such as a roller or Gua sha, or simply use your fingertips.
•  Always move from the inside of your face out, press your fingers between your eyebrows and slide your fingers up your forehead and along your hair line to your ears. Repeat this motion, moving down the face until you have covered your whole face. 

Tools of the trade… 

Gua sha is an ancient Chinese medicine massage technique. A Gua sha tool (made from stones such as jade and rose quartz) is used. Prep the skin with a face oil, you want some slippage, but you don’t want to be dripping in oil, so about four to five drops will do. Use medium pressure and move in slow motions – this is all about relaxing the nervous system. Always use the tool as flat as possible and work in a sliding motion, moving out and at an upward angle from the centre of your face towards your ear, as if you were gently sweeping your skin. On the forehead, sweep from the centre up towards your hair line.

Words: Jade Leggat-Smith | Photography: Pexels