Oils for skin: types, benefits, how to use

Types and properties of oils

Skin oils are divided into three types: essential, base and cosmetic.
Essential oils are pure, highly concentrated substances consisting of a mixture of odorous and volatile substances. They are produced by water or steam distillation from flowers and plants.

Essential oils, with rare exceptions, are not used in cosmetology in their pure form; they require “transport” (base oils, salts, cosmetic products).

Cosmetic oils are ready-to-use products. They contain several ingredients, including:

base oils;
essential oils;
emulsifiers;
water;
extracts.

On sale you can find cosmetic oils from various manufacturers for the care of the skin of the face, body, hands and nails.

Buy oils from trusted manufacturers; high-quality essential oils cannot be cheap

Natural vegetable oils, in turn, are divided into liquid oils and butters. In cosmetology, natural oils produced by cold pressing are used. Natural oils are simply a storehouse of useful microelements and vitamins. They are also called carrier oils because they are the basis or “transport” for essential oils.

Butters are natural oils in solid form. They are used in the manufacture of homemade masks, creams or lip balms, after melting them in a water bath. Butters can be enriched with essential oils.

The most popular batters: coconut oil; Shea Butter; cacao butter.

Oils have excellent “penetrating” abilities, they are quickly absorbed and actively affect not only the upper layers of the epidermis, but also the subcutaneous fatty tissue.

In their composition, natural oils are close to sebum, which distinguishes them from artificial cosmetic products. They restore the oxygen balance of the skin and help moisturize and tone it.

Oils can have anti-inflammatory, tightening, moisturizing, toning and anti-cellulite effects on the skin. There are a number of oils that are indispensable in the treatment of problem skin (acne, allergic reactions).

Important: natural vegetable oils can cause an allergic reaction, so before use you need to do a test for individual tolerance.

When selecting oils, you should take into account your skin type and age characteristics.

What cosmetic oils are best to use?

To achieve the maximum effect from using cosmetic oils, it is important to know which ones are best suited for caring for certain areas of the body. Below we suggest that you familiarize yourself with the complete list of oils for face, hair and body. We also suggest that you read the article Healthy oils for the skin.

For face

The following cosmetic oils will help improve the condition of your facial skin and get rid of wrinkles:

castor;
sea buckthorn;
Palm;
coconut;
almond;
avocado;
peach;
apricot;
jojoba.

For hair

The best cosmetic oils for hair:

castor;
burdock;
linen;
sea buckthorn;
argan;
coconut;
wheat germ;
olive;
peach

For body

The following oils will help get rid of stretch marks and scars, as well as improve the condition of the body’s skin:

olive;
coconut;
shea (karite);
almond;
sea buckthorn;
linen;
cocoa;
argan;
tea tree.

For hands and nails

It is generally accepted that a woman’s hands can be used to determine her age. Therefore, you should take care of them as much as possible. And the following oils will help you with this:

burdock;
olive;
almond;
peach;
coconut;
shi;
argan;
sea buckthorn;
jojoba.

By the way, you can strengthen your nails with the help of effective vitamins.

The best essential oils for face and body

The most popular and beneficial essential oils for the skin:

lavender;
tea tree;
citrus;
rose;
patchouli.

Lavender essential oil is rightfully considered the most powerful female assistant in the fight for beauty and youth. This is one of the few oils that can be applied directly to the skin in its pure form, without a base.

Lavender oil has bactericidal, sedative and tonic properties, activates the renewal of skin tissue, relieves itching and irritation. It is excellent for burns and acne. You need to apply undiluted lavender oil to the affected area (pimple) several times a day.

All essential and base oils must be sold in dark glass bottles

Tea tree essential oil is simply ideal for oily, problem skin. It is used locally or as part of cosmetic products. Tea tree oil is also good for minor cuts and insect bites. It is enough to apply the oil several times to the affected area and the inflammation will significantly decrease, and the cut will heal much faster.

Citrus essential oils are a charge of youth and optimism; their aroma improves mood, energizes and has a positive effect on the emotional background. Orange oil is widely used in cosmetology, in particular in the fight against cellulite.

Rose oil has a powerful rejuvenating effect. It moisturizes, tones and fills skin cells with strength and energy. Rose oil is actively used in the prevention of wrinkles; it is very effective in the fight against age-related changes.

Patchouli oil has found quite wide application in cosmetology. Products enriched with this essential oil will help restore tired skin.

Patchouli oil moisturizes the skin, gives it freshness and elasticity, tightens pores, eliminates irritation, and also promotes rapid renewal of epidermal cells.

Use for cosmetic purposes

Many cosmetic defects and skin problems can be eliminated by using certain oils. They can be used to nourish and treat dermatological diseases of the skin, nails and hair. Their uniqueness is that they can be used for all skin types: dry, normal, combination and even oily.

The products have a particularly beneficial effect on dry and aging dermis and are useful for the thin, delicate skin around the eyes.

Using a heated oil solution, you can effectively clean your face without over-drying it.
Creams and products based on a number of oils can be used without fear in the winter, when you cannot use moisturizers before going outside. They are well absorbed, which promotes deep penetration of beneficial substances, protects it from damage, and has a bactericidal effect.
Masks are especially good and beneficial for dry and normal skin, giving it elasticity and smoothing out wrinkles, while simultaneously providing a cleansing and anti-inflammatory effect.
A number of products are used as lip balm, softening and moisturizing delicate skin and mucous membranes, protecting against chapping, cracks, bacteria and viruses.
Perfectly softens the rough dermis of the hands, elbows, knees, and heals cracked feet.
Baths or wraps with heated oil have the effect of strengthening the nail plates.
Prevent hair loss, stimulate hair growth, moisturize and help fight dandruff.
They are used as massage products; the best effect is achieved if the product is enriched with a few drops of essential oil.

Natural (basic) oils for face and body skin

Useful vegetable oils for skin:

olive;
jojoba;
sea buckthorn;
coconut;
grape seed oil.

Jojoba oil is used quite actively for cosmetic purposes. It has antiseptic, moisturizing, anti-inflammatory, hypoallergenic and other medicinal properties.

Jojoba oil tones and moisturizes the skin, increases its elasticity, fights rashes, reduces wrinkles (especially around the eyes) and improves complexion. This oil is good for the skin of the lips, it softens and moisturizes dry, chapped lips.

Grapeseed oil is unique in its versatility and is suitable for all skin types. The oil contains polyphenols, which are close in structure to the female hormone estrogen, which controls collagen production and slows down the aging process.

Grape seed oil nourishes and moisturizes the skin, stimulates the production of collagen and elastin, improves skin texture and eliminates pigmentation. In addition, grape oil treats rosacea, strengthens blood vessels and normalizes metabolic processes in the skin.

Castor and flaxseed oils are also good for the skin, but they are more often used for hair care.

This familiar and beloved olive oil is used not only in cooking. It contains a large amount of natural antioxidants, which ensures healthy looking skin. Olive oil is rich in vitamins of almost all vital groups: A, B, K, E, D. When used externally, the oil perfectly moisturizes even the driest and most dehydrated skin. It nourishes the skin with beneficial elements and vitamins, making it fresh and toned.

Reviews

Varvara, 52 years old

Some time ago I began to actively search for cosmetic oils for the skin of the face and body. I bought coconut oil at the pharmacy and asked for it so that it could be used after 50 years. I started applying coconut oil to my face and décolleté every day. After about a week, I noticed that there were fewer wrinkles and my facial skin became much more beautiful.

Aurora, 28 years old

I have been using cosmetic oils for 5 years. I use them for everything: face, body, hair and nails. I'm happy with the result. I look much younger than my age!

Karina, 35 years old

Cosmetic oils are a lifesaver for women who take care of their appearance. My favorites are macadamia and sea buckthorn oils. I recently tried almond oil and love it too!

You will learn more about the use of cosmetic oils for face, hair and body care in our following articles. Bookmark our site to stay updated on new articles!

Ways to use oils in skin care

Most often, finished cosmetic products are enriched with oils or masks are made from them. There is no need to add oils to the tube of product; this is a common mistake. You need to take the required amount of product, add oil and apply the mixture to the skin.

It is very beneficial to take warm aromatic baths. Directions for use: take sea or regular coarse salt, add 3-4 drops of essential oil, rub in your palms, and then add to water. Salt can be replaced with cream or milk. Such baths give the skin nutrition and rejuvenation.

A coffee scrub with orange essential oil works very effectively. As a basis, you can take a ready-made coffee scrub or dried coffee grounds, add 3-4 drops of orange oil and actively work on problem areas of the skin with this mixture. This is an excellent anti-cellulite remedy, the skin after the procedure will be smooth and elastic.

If you wish, you can prepare a homemade oil mask. You will need: glass or porcelain dishes, a wooden or ceramic spoon, base and essential oils. Prepare the oil mixture in the following ratio: per tablespoon of base oil – 1-2 drops of essential oil. Oils can be combined. It is better not to store the mixture, but to prepare it immediately before use.

Benefits of oils

Why oil, you ask. You can use your usual cream according to your skin type, and not waste time preparing homemade masks. You are right about this.

Any cream works only in the superficial layers of the skin, but a natural product penetrates into deep structures and works at the cellular level.
Cosmetics have a positive effect while you use them, and oils have a long-lasting effect.
In addition, the likelihood of developing an allergy is possible only if there is an individual intolerance to natural components. While the cream includes many chemical additives, the skin reaction is quite difficult to predict.

Although to be fair, if you decide to use oil instead of cream, don't expect quick results. You will be able to enjoy the beauty of your skin only after 2-3 weeks of regular procedures.

We select organic oil according to skin type

Combination or normal skin is not prone to rashes, redness, or peeling. Combination, oilier in the T-zone than normal. For those with oily skin, avoid cosmetic products with heavy, comedogenic fats. From natural ones, give preference to: argan oil, almond oil, jojoba oil, grape seed oil, rose hip oil, shea butter, and olive oil.

Dry facial skin often itches, flakes, and is prone to redness. Organic fats will help get rid of discomfort, a feeling of tightness, and restore hydrobalance. The best in the fight against dryness and flaking are considered to be: cocoa, shea, olive, hazelnut and argan oils. For winter, stock up on jars of macadamia or arctic berry oils. They protect from wind and frost. You can add a few drops to hand creams and eye areas.

Oily skin is characterized by excess sebum. As a result, sebum clogs the pores, causing comedones and blackheads to form. Those with oily skin types notice enlarged pores in the T-zone. Cosmetic oil will help fight shine, improve appearance and reduce sebum production. Fatty acids dissolve excess fat and dirt in the pores. Regular use of oil normalizes the condition of the epidermis and improves appearance. The only rule is not to overdo it. Apply a thin layer, remove excess with a napkin. Sebum secretion is regulated by moringa, jojoba, and hemp seed oils.

Skin prone to acne and rashes needs special care with antibacterial agents. For treatment and maintenance of normal condition, the use of neem and black cumin oils and watermelon seed is recommended. Before use, it is better to test on a small area to exclude allergic reactions.

Sensitive skin also needs an individual selection of care products. We recommend buying natural oil in mini formats and testing it on small areas to prevent irritation and redness. For sensitive skin, use argan, avocado, shea and jojoba oils.

We talked about natural oils, now let’s look at the best cosmetic products. Save the rating to your bookmarks to quickly find useful information when choosing a product.

The rating was compiled based on numerous reviews of cosmetic products. Selected cosmetic oils from different price segments, luxury, premium, mass market.

Chemical composition of base oils

Essentially, fatty oils contain the following valuable fatty acids:

Linoleic
Gamma and alpha - linoleic

And:

Carotenoids
Phytosterols
Squalene
Tocopherol

All these substances are beneficial for your skin, maintaining its youth, elasticity and normal metabolism. Therefore, it is impossible to say that base oils can only be a basis for mixing various cosmetic formulations. These are self-sufficient, valuable substances for the body. But it is worth remembering that each type of oil, be it coconut, olive or shea butter, has a completely unique composition, and in order to choose a specific oil for individual care, you need to study the composition of each.

Rating of the best cosmetic oils for the face for 2022

Olay Regenerist Luminous Facial Oil

After use, the face instantly transforms and glows. The composition is rich in ingredients - 9 valuable oils that will provide your skin with nutrition, saturation with moisture, and normalize lipid balance. The product has no dyes or fragrances. A balanced formula of apricot and grape seed oils, sunflower, mandarin, jojoba, primrose, and babassu instantly transforms dull skin and has a cumulative effect. The product is quickly absorbed and does not leave a greasy film. Suitable for any age. Girls 20-30 years old can include it in their home beauty ritual to maintain healthy looking facial skin. For women over 35, oil is a mandatory step after cleansing and moisturizing. 50+ remedy in the fight against deep wrinkles and sagging skin.

The manufacturer claims that the composition of the product is suitable for combination and oily skin types.

How to apply:

The composition of Olay Regenerist Luminous Facial is light and non-greasy, can be used in the morning and before bed. 3-4 drops will be enough to cover the entire face and neck. Cosmetologists advise doing a light massage during the application process. Rub your hands to warm them up and, using upward movements, drive in the composition along the massage lines. If applying before bed, seal with cream for best results.

Volume: 40 ml.

Olay Regenerist Luminous Facial Oil

Advantages:

rich formula of nine oils;
natural ingredients;
suitable for any age;
can be used under makeup;
does not leave a sticky film;
large volume;
budget cost.

Flaws:

difficult to buy.

Clarins Santal Face Treatment Oil

The French product works great on dry skin. Can be used from the age of 18 to maintain the health and radiance of the epidermis. Older girls introduce oil into their daily beauty ritual in order to prevent the appearance of wrinkles and the first signs of aging.

A series of oils from the company with Clarins contains a patented formula based on the intensely soothing and moisturizing component “Santal”. Ideal for dry skin, relieves redness and irritation, protects against moisture loss in the deep layers of the epidermis, gives the skin softness and silkiness. In addition to the Santal complex, the composition contains 100% organic hazelnut oil. It is responsible for nourishing the skin with vitamins and minerals and has a tightening lifting effect.

How to use:

Warm a few drops in your hands and apply all over your face and neck. Pre-clean your skin and spray with toner. Let it soak in for 2-3 minutes, blot off any excess with clean cotton towels. Apply moisturizing or nourishing cream. Avoid contact with eyes.

Country of origin: France.

Volume: 30 ml.

Clarins Santal Face Treatment Oil

Advantages:

organic composition;
innovative formula;
amazing aroma;
relaxing effect.

Flaws:

expensive;
the formula is designed only for dry skin types;
stings if it gets in the eyes.

L'Oreal Paris Nutri Gold

For girls with combination or oily skin types, we advise you to take a closer look at a jar from L'Oreal Paris. The patented formula includes a mixture of eight essential concentrates, including lavender, chamomile, geranium, and orange. Scientists from the L'Oreal Paris laboratory have proven that the contents of the product have a lifting effect on aging, sagging, dehydrated skin, cope with dryness and irritation, and even out the relief. The skin instantly absorbs the oil, leaving no stickiness. Recommended for use by girls 30+. Definitely worth a try, especially since the price allows it.

Mode of application:

Apply a couple of drops to cleansed facial skin, at the rate of 1-2 drops on the face, 2 drops on the neck. Cover with night or day cream.

Volume: 30 ml.

L'Oreal Paris Nutri Gold

Country of origin: France.

Pros:

affordable price;
easy to buy;
nice smell;
cumulative effect;
large release format.

Minuses:

may cause allergies due to the concentration of essential oils, be sure to test before application.

Lumene Hehku Eternally Radiant Nourishing Night Oil

Night facial oil from Lumene will become an indispensable assistant in the fight against wrinkles, dull color and sagging skin. Recommended for use from 35 years of age. The product must be used at night; you do not need to cover it with cream. The formula of the product consists of a large amount of omega 3-9 fatty acids. Due to the rich formula, the composition has a stimulating and rejuvenating effect on aging skin. During use, women notice:

reduction of facial and nasolabial wrinkles;
copes with crow's feet;
the overall tone and complexion is evened out;
after a month of use, 90% of women confirm improvement in their skin condition.

Effective application method:

Lightly massage the face to ensure blood flow, distribute a few drops in the center and periphery. When the skin has completely absorbed the composition, apply the cream.

Volume: 30 ml.

Country of origin: Finland.

Lumene Hehku Eternally Radiant Nourishing Night Oil

Advantages:

economical consumption;
natural ingredients;
nice smell;
good reviews, everyone notes a pronounced anti-aging effect.

Flaws:

expensive price;
Suitable for night use only.

The Ordinary 100% Plant-Derived Squalane Oil

If you have dry or sensitive skin, try a new product from The Ordinary laboratory - squalene oil. Why is it good? 1. Squalene has moisturizing and soothing properties. 2. The formula is designed in such a way that during the day the required amount of moisture remains inside the cells of the upper layers of the epidermis. 3. The care product is universal, can be applied under daytime makeup or before bed, as a mask. If your skin is moody, dry, flaky, or red - try 100% Plant-Derived Squalane Oil. We recommend introducing self-care into your daily ritual; after just 10 days, you will receive compliments from others.

The manufacturer recommends treating hair ends to prevent breakage and split ends. You can use it from the age of 25.

Bottle volume: 30 ml.

Country of origin: Canada.

The Ordinary 100% Plant-Derived Squalane Oil

Advantages:

vegan cosmetics;
consists of natural components of plant origin;
large bottle format;
affordable price;
rave reviews.

Flaws:

short shelf life when opened.

Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream All-Over Miracle Oil. Universal magic oil

You can start using this universal beauty drug from the age of 18. Moreover, it is suitable not only for the face, but also for the body and hair. The bottle has a convenient spray dispenser; the product lays down in a light veil, is quickly absorbed, and does not leave a film or marks on clothes. Clinical studies confirm the moisturizing effect of the components for 8-12 hours. The product works great with any skin type. Can be used morning and evening. An indispensable jar in beauty care. The gentle formula does not provoke the appearance of comedones and clogging of pores.

Mode of application:

Apply a light mist onto a clean face or body, spreading the fragrant layer in a circular motion. Remove any remaining residue with a clean napkin.

Bottle volume: 100 ml.

Country of origin: USA.

Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream All-Over Miracle Oil. Universal magic oil

Pros:

large bottle format, will last for a long time;
price;
versatility.

Minuses:

no pronounced effect;
there are chemical compounds of non-natural origin.

Elemis Pro-Collagen Marine Oil

The formula of the “beauty elixir” is designed for women of all ages. Stated functions:

increase the firmness and elasticity of the dermis;
smooth out small wrinkles;
strengthen protective barriers;
saturate the epidermis with omega acids.

According to consumer reviews, the product copes with all the manufacturer’s promises. After use, girls note improvements in skin condition, note the softness and nourishment of the skin. The bottle contains extracts of three algae and a selection of organic oils:

jojoba;
poppy;
Abyssinian;
Roman chamomile;
grape seed.

Product volume: 15 ml.

Country of origin: Great Britain.

How to use:

Apply a small amount to clean hands, warm up in palms, and spread.

Elemis Pro-Collagen Marine Oil

Advantages:

does not contain alcohol, dyes, fragrances;
absorbs quickly;
the effect is noticeable after several applications.

Flaws:

small volume;
high price.

Zeitoun. Cosmetic oil No6

A rich, universal solution for face and body from the Zeytun company, truly a budget find. The product does an excellent job of nourishing and moisturizing. The concentration of hyaluron will ensure optimal balance in the layers of the dermis. Can be used by young girls. As a base before makeup, it will be heavy, it is recommended to apply before bed. The complex of easily penetrating compounds improves the condition of the upper layer of dry dermis, gives radiance and elasticity. The ingredients are completely organic: