A facial oil is a great addition to any skincare regimen, but in order to maximize the benefits you receive from using an oil, proper application is key. So where does an oil fit in your routine, and how can should you apply it? We’ve got some top tips for making the most of your facial oil experience!
At what point in your routine should a facial oil be applied?
When applying skincare products, the general rule is that the lightest products are applied first and followed by heavier weight products like oils and creams. Targeted treatments like eye creams, spot treatments, and serums generally come first in order to maximize their absorption and treatment benefit, as they’re meant to sink in deep and provide specific remedies to skin concerns. A facial oil serves best in the final or second-to-last step of your routine, mimicking the natural barrier of fatty acids that your skin produces to protect itself and balance hydration levels. For those with dryer skin, a moisturizer may also be applied as a final lockdown step to finish off your routine.
How should facial oils be applied?
Facial oils have a particularly slick consistency and don’t benefit from being rubbed into the skin, as this can cause breakdown of any other products used prior to its’ application. Facial oils should be gently pressed into the skin with the palms. This will not only keep the rest of your routine intact, but will also maximize the amount of product you need to use. Simply pressing the product in will ensure no oil is lost to absorption within the fingers and palms of the hands, ensuring the bulk of the product is absorbed by the skin on the face.
Should oils be applied in the morning or the evening routine?
Oils can be used day or night, depending on the complexion concerns of the person using them. Those with more combination/oily complexions may want to keep their facial oils in their nighttime routine, as too much oil production can cause sunscreen or makeup to slide off during the course of the day, ruining a great face day and annihilating your sun protection. Those with severe dryness or skin conditions that cause irritation and dry patches, like psoriasis or eczema, can use oils day or night to maintain an even balance of hydration in their skin and to prevent water loss throughout the day to environmental factors like wind, climate, and sun exposure. In general, if you’re questioning whether or not an oil is best for you during the day, it’s best to skip it and save it for the evening.
Can sunscreen be used in conjunction with oils?
Sunscreen should always be used as the final step in your skincare routine if it’s not present in any other complexion products, and can be used safely with oils as long as the skin isn;t overly hydrated, which can cause the sunscreen to slide off.
Now that you know all about oil application, you’re ready to check out some of the great options we have available! Head on over to our selection to find the best oil for you.