Face oils are an essential part of any skincare routine. They help to protect, repair and replenish the skin while protecting it from dehydration and environmental pollutants. Not only that but as we age the skin’s oil production naturally decreases. Therefore, adding face oil back into the skin helps to maintain a healthy skin barrier.

When choosing a face oil, you need to consider your skin type. Using the right type of oil will help to rebalance the skin, preventing it from becoming too oily or too dry.

All oils contain Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs) which are vital for skin health. When choosing an oil, one of the most important things to take note of is the fatty acid ratio, in particular, the Linoleic acid (omega-6) to Oleic acid (omega-9) ratio.

People with oily/acne-prone skin generally have lower levels of Linoleic versus Oleic acid in their sebum. This means that oils with higher percentages of Linoleic acid are beneficial for these skin types as they help to regulate sebum production. On the other hand, if you have dry or aging skin, then oils higher in Oleic acid will be better for you. These oils help to soften and protect the skin by keeping it well nourished and moisturized.

Listed below are the best face oils for each skin type:

OILY/ACNE-PRONE

• grapeseed oil
• pumpkin seed oil
• squalane oil
• rosehip oil
• jojoba oil
• black cumin seed oil
• evening primrose oil
• seabuckthorn oil

DRY/MATURE

• argan oil
• camellia seed oil
• apricot kernel seed oil
• pomegranate seed oil
• avocado oil
• marula oil
• jojoba oil

SENSITIVE

• tamanu oil
• evening primrose oil
• camellia seed oil
• apricot kernel seed oil
• pomegranate seed oil
• squalane oil
• rosehip oil
• jojoba oil

BALANCED

• argan oil
• camellia seed oil
• jojoba oil
• rosehip oil
• squalane oil

To increase the absorption of your face oil and to help it work more effectively, always make sure to apply your face oil to damp skin. You can prep the skin first by using a hydrating facial tonic or mist, or you can add a couple of drops of oil into your moisturizer before applying it to your skin. And remember, when it comes to layering, always apply your face oil before your SPF and make-up.

Have you tried oil cleansing? Head to our recent article here to learn more about it.