Ancient Egyptians used to swear by magical oils extracted from fruits and flowers. For Japanese women oil cleansers are an essential part of their rituals, and even our Indian skincare tradition recommends using specific oil blends for different parts of the body, including the scalp. Then why did we not add them to our face care routine sooner?
My biggest concern was that my face was already oily and prone to acne to handle another added layer of oil. Mixed with this discomfort, my entire childhood was spent using thick, heavy textures of coconut and almond oils for my hair and body during winters. Honestly, that sticky experience didn’t really help make a case for them. But when everyone on Instagram, from influencers, my favourite skincare brands to even dermatologists raved about it, I finally got myself to give facial oils a shot.
Cut to the present, and I’ve been addicted to facial oils for the last one and a half years. I’ve used various oils to target different concerns (after quite a bit of trial and error) and I’ve found the perfect oils that suit me. My skin has improved its innate texture, is completely in control of oil production, my hormonal acne has reduced, and my skin has never been so soft and hydrated during the winter months. Below, I’ve listed the various oils I’ve tried, how I’ve added them to my routine and how they have helped my skin over time.
1. Bio Oil Specialist Skincare Oil Natural
Bio Oil was the first oil I used on my face. Back then I would only use it on my body during winter until I stumbled upon a review that stated that it’s safe to use this product on the face too. So, I tried using it on my face after my evening shower and I woke up the next morning to softer, plumper skin. Over time, I’ve switched from Bio Oil to the Bio Oil Specialist Skincare Oil Natural, and I still use it to date.
2. Nykaa Naturals Skin Potion Anti Acne Skincare Face Oil
Once I was convinced that facial oils work, I looked to my favourite brand that I knew would be safe to use on my face. I picked the Nykaa Naturals Anti Acne Face Oil and tried it with my morning skincare ritual. I used the oil before I applied my sunscreen and my skin’s texture instantly changed within a week. My acne visibly reduced, even when I expected hormonal breakouts during my cycle.
3. Plum Grape Seed & Sea Buckthorn Glow-Restore Face Oils Blend
My first winter switch last year was shifting to this bottle of warm goodness. Grapeseed oil is known to moisturise dull and dehydrated skin while sea buckthorn oil heals frostbites, sunburns, and damaged skin. I’ve added this oil to my evening skincare routine specifically during winter. Also, I used it after cleaning my face in the night and slept with the oil on like a sleeping mask. I woke up to healthy, hydrated, and healed skin.
4. Dot & Key Glow Elixir Radiance Enhancing Face Oil
I recently tried this mix of rosehip, cloudberry and sea buckthorn oils from Dot & Key to my regimen as a cleansing oil. I use a few drops to massage my makeup away and then dab my face clean with a wet cotton pad. I follow this up with a gentle foam cleanser for double cleansing. The makeup and dirt melt away with this oil leaving behind refreshed, clean skin.
5. Lotus Organics+ Bakuchiol Plant Retinol Miracle Facial Oil
I didn’t know there was a natural way of combating early signs of ageing until I heard about bakuchiol. My mother was using bakuchiol oil (a different brand) and urged me to buy one. It is a plant-based substitute for retinol that reduces fine lines and pigmentation and helps your skin look firm and plump. The Lotus Organics Bakuchiol oil smells sweet and is gentle to my skin. I often replace it with my night cream for its anti aging benefits.
6. Satvik Spirit Sensual Organic Hemp-Seed Face & Body Oil
Hemp oil is trending high currently and rightfully so. This oil is great, especially for people with sensitive skin, as it is mild and extremely beneficial. Hemp oil has inflammatory properties and helps with hormonal balance as well, reducing the chances of breakouts.I use this oil post my weekly deep cleanse (after a clay mask and scrub) to hydrate and replenish my skin.
7. SoulTree Radiance Face Oil With Saffron & Turmeric
Saffron and turmeric are known to help achieve a healthy glow. Both these ingredients have been a part of our natural face packs and weekly glow boosters for ages. I use this oil twice a week after a hard day at work or a workout session to heal and nourish my skin.. Just a few drops on a freshly washed face can do miracles by eliminating dull, tired skin.
