3 reasons why facial oils can be good for your skin

When it comes to facial oils, negative thoughts such as "too oily", "clogs pores" and "sticky" would first come to mind. On the flip side, there are many with dry skin types who swear by the use of facial oils to rescue their desert-like skin.

These days, the idea of using one of these nourishing oils as a way to replenish the skin's moisture levels has become a trend, with celebs like Fan Bingbing swearing by the technique. Consequently, many brands have started releasing their own facial oils touting various efficacies and textures to meet the needs of the public. Lightweight and easy to absorb, these oils go against the negative reactions one might have towards facial oils.

But first, why should you start using facial oils?

1) It replenishes and strengthens the sebum barrier

The sebum barrier is the natural protective film of the skin. Not only does it help retain moisture and prevent dryness, but it also protects against external aggressors. When the sebum barrier is thin, which largely occurs in those with dry skin, the skin becomes more susceptible to external damage from ultraviolet rays, air pollution, temperature changes and more. Therefore, the use of facial oils can replenish the sebum barrier from the outside and keep such skin problems at bay.

2) It reduces skin moisture loss

The balance of water and oil in the skin is very important. This is especially so in hot and humid Singapore where we wash our faces whenever it appears too oily, resulting in over-cleansing that strips away the skin's healthy oils. Staying in an air-conditioned environment for prolonged periods can also dry out the skin. Having sufficient oil is important to create a protective film to reduce moisture loss from evaporation due to the dry air.

3) It helps skincare products absorb better

The structure of our skin means that oil-based ingredients are more easily absorbed into the skin than water-based ingredients. This is why many skincare products contain a percentage of oils to ensure that the nutrients can be absorbed to provide the desired results.

Do we have you convinced ? Here are our current facial oils favourites to shop now:

CE15 Bakuchiol Firming Oil, $215, Allies of Skin

1/5

This lifting oil is formulated with 22 clinically proven active ingredients with nine nourishing oils. Vitamin C, E, coenzyme Q10 as well as one percent bakuchiol further power this blend that quickly penetrates the deepest layers of the skin to brighten and firm.

Vinergetic C+ Overnight Detox Oil, $62, Caudalie

2/5

Known for its use of plant-based extracts, Caudalie's latest facial oil employs grape oil that is rich in omega-6 and vitamin E to nourish and repair skin. Essential oils such as rose, neroli, lavender and carrot oil also aid rapid absorption while providing a sensorial experience.

Collagen Superfusion Facial Oil, $170, Charlotte Tilbury

3/5

This facial oil is chocked full of nourishing ingredients including avocado oil, olive oil, raspberry seed oil, blueberry seed oil and more, which contains vitamins A, E and omega fatty acids. Use it as the last step of your nighttime routine to relieve your skin's fatigue and plump up the skin.

Sincere Double Rejuvenating Oil, $57.50, Nomel

4/5

New-to-Singapore Taiwanese beauty label Nomel launched this biphase facial oil. Specially developed for Asian skin types, the formula allows the water-based serum to be absorbed fully while the skin-friendly oil seals in moisture. People who are worried that facial oils can get too heavy can start with this.

A-Gloei Maretinol Oil, $105, Drunk Elephant

5/5

Marula Oil is the star product of Drunk Elephant. The new A-Gloei, however, mixes the relatively sensitising retinol with oil to reduce its potential for irritation, making it friendly for sensitive skin types to use as well. This oil is focused on anti-ageing, such as reducing skin texture and minimising wrinkles and hyperpigmentation while locking in moisture and restoring a youthful glow.



A version of this article was first published in  NUYOU. Translation by Ho Guo Xiong.