Oils have been used in natural skin care for ages. We like to reach for them because they moisturize and cleanse the skin perfectly. They are the basic ingredient of skin care cosmetics, the foundation of makeup removal and can also replace a facial cream. Always make sure to choose cold-pressed and unrefined oils which are richer than the purified ones. On the other hand, the latter are less sensitizing so they can be freely used even by allergy sufferers. All oils are to be applied to wet skin. Properly selected oils that match the particular skin type work wonders, but a miss-matched one can result in a significant deterioration of the skin’s condition. How to match the oil to the needs of the skin? Here are my tips. 

Which oil to choose?

The oils you buy must be stored in a dark glass bottle that protects the content against the sun, thus delaying the process of breaking down of the product. The bottle should be equipped with a pipette – the most hygienic and precise applicator. After opening, the oil should be stored only in the refrigerator.

Before you choose facial skin care oil, pay attention to the acids that make it up. For oily, mixed and acne skin, the so-called “dry oils” that are absorbed immediately after application and thus do not leave a greasy film on the skin are recommended. Dry oils contain linoleic, linolenic or gamma-linolenic acids. In turn, dry skin needs oils that leave a protective layer on the skin. Such action is provided by oil containing stearic, palmitic, myristic, peanutic or lauric acid.

If you do not know how to choose an oil that will be suitable for your skin needs, get to know the properties of the most popular skin care oils.

Argan oil – properties

The argan oil is light yellow in color and the scent derives from the argan nuts. You can use it for body care, face care, hands and nail care as well as an addition to various cosmetics. It is absorbed right after the application. It contains unsaturated fatty acids, such as omega-6 and omega-9, as well as vitamin E and phenolic compounds, which provide strong antioxidant properties.

Argan oil accelerates healing and has anti-inflammatory and soothing effects. It rebuilds the hydro-lipid barrier of the epidermis and regulates sebaceous glands. It can be used regardless of skin type, but the most spectacular effects can be observed in the care of mature, dry and irritated skin.

Opuntia oil – properties

Opuntia oil has a delicate aroma and a light, matte finish. It is very expensive because to get a liter of this oil, you need to extrude about half a ton of pips. It contains unsaturated fatty acids, mainly omega-6, phytosterols and vitamin E. It has immunostimulating properties, i.e. it increases the skin’s resistance to external factors. In addition, it provides anti-wrinkle and antioxidant properties, moisturizes the skin and improves its tone and color. It strengthens the lipid barrier, soothes irritations, promotes regeneration and regulates sebaceous glands. It is so delicate that you can use it even for under-eye skin care. If your complexion is mature, dry or oily, opuntia oil is the ideal solution.

Jojoba oil – properties

Jojoba oil is a liquid wax with a bright yellow color. It is very light, it absorbs quickly and has a velvety finish. Its composition is similar to sebum, or the lipid protective coat of the skin, which results in easy assimilation. It protects the skin against water loss, and it owes regenerative and antioxidant action to vitamin E. Jojoba oil does not change the pH of the skin and preserves its acid reaction. It has softening properties and contains a natural sunscreen. It works in the care of sensitive, dry, oily and acne skin.

Tamanu oil – properties

Tamanu oil has a green color and an intense spicy-nutty smell. It contains natural flavonoids that give it antibacterial, soothing and anti-edema properties. Thanks to the richness of unsaturated fatty acids, i.e. linoleic and oleic acids, it supports wound healing, relieves inflammation and minimizes dryness and flaking of the skin. In addition, it has an antioxidant effect.

Tamanu oil is universal, so you can use it for all skin types. It works well in the care of acne skin because it regulates the work of sebaceous glands, accelerates the healing of skin lesions, reduces blackheads and soothes. It can be used to soothe irritation, which is why it will meet the requirements of sensitive skin. In turn, due to its regenerative properties and the content of a natural sunscreen, it will respond to the needs of mature skin.

Marula oil – properties

Marula oil has a yellow color, a characteristic nutty fragrance. It has a fast-absorbing texture and a satin finish. It contains oleic acid and ingredients with antioxidant activity, ie vitamin C, and E, as well as flavonoids and catechins. It provides anti-aging qualities: it is responsible for skin regeneration and smoothes out small wrinkles. It has antibacterial properties, it also refreshes and nourishes the skin.

Marula oil strongly moisturizes, which strengthens the lipid barrier of the epidermis. It brightens scars from the pimples and supports the treatment of stretch marks, but it will not heal deep scars, for example, post-accidental scars. However, it reduces redness and minimizes swelling. You can reach for it when your skin is irritated after cosmetic procedures and to take care of the eye, hand and hair area. Marula oil is a great solution for a mature and acne-prone skin.

Raspberry seed oil – properties

Raspberry seed oil has a dark brown color and its smell is a reminiscent of olive oil, which actually evaporates a moment after application. It has a light consistency, thanks to which it absorbs quickly and does not leave a greasy film on the skin. It contains a natural sunscreen.

Raspberry seed oil contains unsaturated omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which provide the skin with an optimal level of hydration, inhibit melanin production and have a brightening effect. In turn, the content of vitamin E gives it antioxidant properties. In addition, it has antiseptic properties, soothes irritation and promotes wound healing. It is designed for irritated and dry skin, but due to its properties, it will work in the care of mature, oily and acne skin.

My favorite oils

Each oil used in the skin care has a number of beneficial properties, which will be of no use if we do not match it to the needs of our skin properly.

I have a dry complexion, so I should use opuntia oil or jojoba oil. Both effectively protect the skin against water loss and are very delicate, so that they do not cause irritation. Jojoba oil has the advantage over opuntia oil because it is light and absorbs quickly, which I value very much in such cosmetics. In addition, it does not change the pH of the skin, contains a natural sunscreen and is available at an affordable price.

What oil do you use to take care of your skin type and what made you choose this particular one? Share your opinion in the comment section!