The health of our skin is a finely balanced thing, and can be affected by a wide array of factors, including what we eat, drink and put on our face. Contrary to popular belief, nearly all skin types can benefit from using some type of oil, as they can help to boost hydration, reduce congestion, and even alleviate excess oil. However choosing the right oil is crucial; Nutritionist Sarah Flower debunks the myths on the best oils for different skin types.
There is an oil for every skin type
COMBINATION SKIN
ID: Skin can feel dry and oily in different areas of the face, and this can also vary from season to season.
The Best Oil: Rosehip Oil
Rosehip oil is a great reparative oil and has been shown to help with scars and pigmentation. It is rich in essential fatty acids and vitamin A, which helps combat free radicals and repair the skin. It is also a very light oil so ideal for those who also have combination skin. Choose an organic, cold pressed rosehip oil as this will be the most nutrient rich.
DRY SKIN
ID: Skin often feels tight, especially after bathing or swimming. Skin can also have a rough texture, flaking, and a dull complexion.
The Best Oil: Castor Oil
An age old remedy, castor oil, has a multitude of uses. It is particularly beneficial for those who suffer with dry skin. Castor oil contains ricinoleic acid and omega-6 fatty acids, which hydrate and stimulate the skin. I recommend Castor Oil BP from Power Health (available from www.powerhealth.co.uk), as it is cold pressed, meaning it retains the greatest level of nutrients.
OILY SKIN
ID: Oily skin often has enlarged pores, and shine will often appear soon after cleansing. This can be linked to breakouts.
The Best Oil: Jojoba Oil
Jojoba oil is an extremely light oil, and so is a perfect oil for those with oily complexions. Its molecular structure is similar to human sebum, and helps to control overproduction of oil. Jojoba oil also makes an excellent carrier oil for more potent, active essential oils.
SENSITIVE SKIN
ID: Skin that becomes easily red, and can often experience stinging and reactions to products.
The Best Oil: Aloe Vera Oil
Redness in the skin is often a sign of inflammation or an allergic reaction, and so the best oils to use on your face must be calming ones. Aloe Vera oil promotes healing, and can help to rebalance the protective layer of the skin. Aloe Vera is also used to address common skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, and rashes.
ACNE SKIN
ID: Breakouts are common for this skin types, and can vary from small white and black heads, to under the skin pustules.
The Best Oil: Tea tree Oil
Tea tree oil is a powerful anti-bacterial, anti-viral and anti-fungal oil and in its purest form, is very concentrated. Although you can buy creams containing tea tree, it is far more effective if you add a few drops to a base oil such as coconut or almond oil. It can be used effectively to treat acne, helping to clear and unblock clogged pores as well as fight the infection. It also helps to dry out the acne and due to its anti-bacterial and fungal properties, whilst also helping post-breakout with scarring.