You're on this webpage because something about our naturalistic, sorta-sciency, very straightforward branding reeled you in (or maybe it was the SEO and you're here by mistake- who knows). Either way, you're reading this far because you're interested in what kind of natural oils you might be able to work into your skincare routine.
We've been developing various skincare products using natural, earth based ingredients for almost 10 years, and in that time we've learned a few things.
This article explores the myriad benefits of using natural oils for skincare, including their properties, applications, and the science behind their effectiveness.
What Are Natural Oils?
Natural oils are extracts derived from various parts of plants, including seeds, fruits, nuts, and leaves. These oils are often rich in essential fatty acids, vitamins, and antioxidants, making them great add-ins for skincare.
Unlike synthetic oils, natural oils are minimally processed, meaning you could in theory go find them in the wild.
We prefer natural oils over synthetic ones because there's next to zero reason for synthetic oils to even exist- because they're just like...right there. We already had them.
Types of Natural Oils
There is a wide variety of natural oils available, each with its unique set of benefits. Some of the most popular oils used in skincare include:
- Jojoba Oil: Known for its similarity to human sebum, jojoba oil is excellent for balancing oil production and providing deep hydration.
- Argan Oil: Rich in vitamin E and essential fatty acids, argan oil is applauded for its moisturizing and anti-aging properties.
- Coconut Oil: With its antimicrobial and moisturizing effects, coconut oil is a staple in many skincare routines- and likely the one you already know the most about.
- Rosehip Oil: Packed with vitamins A and C, rosehip oil is celebrated for its ability to repair and rejuvenate the skin.
- Olive Oil: A source of powerful antioxidants, olive oil helps to protect the skin from environmental damage and maintain elasticity.
The Science Behind Natural Oils
Hydration and Moisture Retention
One of the primary benefits of natural oils is their ability to lock in moisture. The skin's natural barrier, known as the stratum corneum, can be compromised by harsh weather, pollution, and the use of drying skincare products.
Natural oils help to reinforce this barrier, preventing transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and keeping the skin hydrated.
For instance, jojoba oil mimics the skin's natural sebum, allowing it to penetrate deeply without clogging pores. This makes it an excellent choice for those with oily or acne-prone skin, as it helps to regulate oil production.
Rich in Antioxidants
Natural oils are often loaded with antioxidants, which play a crucial role in protecting the skin from oxidative stress. Oxidative stress occurs when there is an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants in the body, leading to cell damage and premature aging.
Words like oxidative, free radicals, antioxidants etc. have gotten a bad rep over the years because MLMs (fuck you young living) co-opted them as marketing terms. They ARE actual science words, I promise.
Vitamin E, found in high concentrations in oils like argan and sunflower, is a potent antioxidant that neutralizes free radicals and helps to repair the skin. Additionally, oils like rosehip and grapeseed contain vitamins A and C, which are known to boost collagen production and improve skin texture.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Many natural oils possess anti-inflammatory properties, making them ideal for soothing irritated or sensitive skin. For example, chamomile oil contains azulene, a compound known for its calming effects on the skin.
Calendula oil, extracted from marigold flowers, is another powerful anti-inflammatory that can reduce redness and promote healing.
These properties are particularly beneficial for conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea, where inflammation plays a key role in symptom flare-ups.
By incorporating anti-inflammatory oils into your skincare routine, you can help to manage these conditions more effectively.
Practical Applications of Natural Oils
Cleansing
Oil cleansing has gained popularity as a gentle yet effective way to remove makeup, dirt, and impurities without stripping the skin of its natural oils. The oil cleansing method involves massaging a natural oil, such as coconut or olive oil, onto dry skin and then wiping it away with a warm, damp cloth.
This method not only cleanses the skin but also helps to maintain its natural balance, preventing overproduction of sebum and minimizing breakouts. Oil cleansing can be particularly beneficial for those with dry or sensitive skin, as it provides a moisturizing cleanse.
Moisturizing
Natural oils can be used as standalone moisturizers or in combination with other products. Applying a few drops of oil to damp skin helps to lock in moisture, leaving the skin soft and supple. For an added boost of hydration, you can layer an oil over your regular moisturizer or mix a few drops into your lotion.
Oils like argan and marula are lightweight and absorb quickly, making them suitable for daytime use. Heavier oils, such as avocado or olive oil, are ideal for nighttime application when the skin undergoes its natural repair process.
Treating Specific Skin Concerns
Natural oils can target a range of skin concerns, from acne to aging. Tea tree oil, known for its antibacterial properties, is a popular choice for treating acne. Its ability to penetrate deeply into the skin and combat bacteria makes it an effective spot treatment for blemishes.
For anti-aging benefits, rosehip oil is a standout due to its high content of vitamins A and C. These vitamins promote cell turnover and collagen production, helping to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Additionally, the fatty acids in rosehip oil aid in repairing damaged skin and improving overall texture.
Customizing Your Skincare Routine with Natural Oils
Choosing the right oil for your skin type is crucial for achieving optimal results. Here are some guidelines to help you select the best oils for your skin:
- Oily/Acne-Prone Skin: Look for lightweight, non-comedogenic oils like jojoba, grapeseed, and tea tree oil. These oils help to balance oil production and reduce acne without clogging pores.
- Dry Skin: Heavier oils like avocado, olive, and almond oil provide deep hydration and nourishment, making them ideal for dry or mature skin.
- Sensitive Skin: Gentle oils with anti-inflammatory properties, such as chamomile, calendula, and rosehip oil, can soothe and protect sensitive skin.
- Combination Skin: A blend of lightweight and nourishing oils, such as argan and marula oil, can address the varying needs of combination skin.
Incorporating Oils into Your Routine
To incorporate natural oils into your skincare routine, follow these simple steps:
- Cleanse: Start with an oil cleanser to remove makeup and impurities.
- Tone: Use a toner to balance the skin's pH and prepare it for further treatment.
- Treat: Apply serums or treatments for specific concerns, such as acne or aging.
- Moisturize: Seal in hydration with a natural oil suited to your skin type.
- Protect: Finish with sunscreen during the day to protect your skin from UV damage.
Potential Drawbacks and Considerations
Sensitivity and Allergies
While natural oils offer numerous benefits, it's important to be aware of potential sensitivities and allergies.
Some individuals may react to certain oils, particularly those derived from nuts or seeds. To avoid adverse reactions, perform a patch test before using a new oil on your face or body.
If you have known allergies, opt for oils that are less likely to cause a reaction, such as coconut or olive oil.
Quality and Purity
Not all natural oils are created equal. The quality and purity of an oil can vary greatly depending on its source and processing methods. To ensure you're getting the best product, look for oils that are:
- Cold-Pressed: Cold-pressing preserves the oil's beneficial properties by avoiding heat and chemical processing.
- Unrefined: Unrefined oils retain more of their natural nutrients and antioxidants.
- Organic: Organic certification indicates that the oil is free from pesticides and synthetic additives.
- Non-GMO: Non-GMO oils are derived from plants that have not been genetically modified.
At Simple Soul Skincare, we look for Cold-Pressed and Unrefined oil types. We care less about the organic label because it isn't well regulated. You can slap organic on anything and figure out a way to get away with it most of the time (its also why we never label our own things as organic even though we probably could...it just feels sleazy)
Also, we dont demonize GMOs. GMOs are the reason you have food available to you. That's not to say that some GMO COMPANIES don't suck (fuck you Monsanto), but GMOs in and of themselves are essential to your day to day life.
Anyway. Back to Natural Oils...
The benefits of using natural oils for skincare are vast and varied, making them an invaluable addition to any beauty routine. From their ability to hydrate and protect the skin to their rich antioxidant content and anti-inflammatory properties, natural oils offer a holistic approach to skincare that aligns with both health and environmental values.
By understanding the properties of different oils and incorporating them thoughtfully into your routine, you can harness the power of nature to achieve radiant, healthy skin.
In embracing natural oils, we not only take a step towards healthier skin but also contribute to a more sustainable and ethical skincare industry. So, whether you're a skincare enthusiast or a conscious consumer, consider making natural oils a staple in your beauty regimen. We recommend that you start with the Flora Fix Blemish Treatment for a nice, gentle intro to the natural oil skincare world.