From The Straits Times    |

 

Million dollar question: What is facial oil?

Is it somewhat like a serum? Do you apply it on before or after toner? Or do you add drops of it to your foundation? Will it make your skin oilier? If you’re as lost as many others on the subject of beauty facial oils, not to worry. Here’s where we step in and break down just exactly what it is, what does it do for you and when should you apply it.

 

 

What they are: Different from serums that are of thicker consistency, facial oils are basically lightweight oils that are extracted from botanicals. Touted to be nourishing for your face, facial oils are emollients, which means that they are easily absorbed and are able to penetrate deeper under the skin’s epidermis as opposed to the regular creams. The result? A more intensive, long-lasting nourishment.

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What they do: These luxurious oils promise an instantly soft and smooth skin, simultaneously forming a protective layer over your face to prevent any further moisture loss. What’s not to love about that? Of course, there is no one-stop-shop for all skin concerns, some are better for the firming of skin, others are better for hydration so it all boils down to the nature of the oil.

So when do you apply it? You can think of facial oils as a supporting role to your usual moisturisers that are high in hyaluronic acid and glycerin. Go about your skincare routine and add a drop or two as the finishing step. If you’re going to put on makeup, then incorporate these oils into your foundation for a healthy-looking glow. Pro-tip: Massage a drop unto your lips before applying your favourite matte liquid lipstick. That way, you’ll stay moisturised throughout.

Now, are you ready to discover some of the latest facial oils? Then stay with us on this.

 

Youth Watery Oil

 

 

You might have heard good things about Guerlain’s youth-boosting Abeille Royale range, it helps to combat wrinkles and loss of tissue firmness. The latest Youth Watery Oil (we hope it’s on sale at Luxasia’s Beauty Bazaar happening today) from the range combines Guerlain’s two exclusive ingredients – ouessant black bee honey and royal jelly – into the facial oil to give an ultra-nourishing oil.

We love the lightweight texture, it gets absorbed into the skin almost immediately as soon as you massage it on. Said to instantly smooth and plump up your face, we recommend this for anyone looking to eliminate fine lines for a more youthful appearance.

Guerlain Youth Watery Oil, $210 from Tangs

 

VineActive Overnight Detox Night Oil

 

 

Powered by grapes sourced from Bordeaux, France, Caudalie’s newest VineActive range is targeted at strengthening the skin against external aggressors, resulting in a more radiant and revitalised skin.

Check out the Overnight Detox Night Oil, a 100 percent plant-based oil that works overnight to repair the countenance caused by daytime pollution. Providing a burst of nutrition, this lightweight oil promises to help detoxify and support natural cell renewal by flushing out free radicals, dead cells and all other impurities.

Caudalie VineActive Overnight Detox Night Oil, $65 from Sephora

 

Rainforest of the Sea

 

 

The first image that came to our minds when we heard its name was a mermaid. But what it really is: A multi-tasking elixir that contains brightening pearls and plant oil extracts such as coconut, jojoba and vitamin E for a healthy-looking complexion.

Non-greasy, the oil is effortlessly absorbed into the skin and you can use it as a highlighting primer, as a moisturising coat for the lips or to be infused into your foundation for an instant radiance boost. Covering the face in an illuminating veil, it is said to intensively hydrate the skin without clogging your pores.

Tarte Rainforest of the Sea, $50 from Sephora

 

Absolute Anti-Aging

 

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UMA Oils’ products have always been on the list of cult buys, so this Absolute Anti-Aging facial oil is an essential bottle you need in your beauty cabinet. A luxurious blend of rich botanicals that are said to reverse visible signs of aging, such as neroli, rose, geranium and lavender, this is enriched with frankincense essential oil that promises to promote natural resurfacing.

Other than that, the juniper berry extract acts as an antiseptic that aids in reversing damage done by environmental factors. 100 percent natural and organic, we suggest prepping your face with it or mixing it with your foundation for a flawless finish.

UMA Oils Absolute Anti-Aging, $137.55 from Net-a-porter

 

Skin Gloss on Water

 

 

We know, it says water, so why is it in this list? Simply because it is a bi-phase oil and water product that promises to deliver moisture to the skin. Made with olive fruit oil and evening primrose oil extract, this softening and hydrating oil from Kanebo is said to soften and tighten the skin. Bonus: It is perfumed with all-natural ingredients that lends a feminine floral and fruity fragrance.

Kanebo Skin Gloss on Water, $82

 

 

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