Have you ever heard that oils are bad for oily skin? Or that oils clog pores and cause breakouts? The truth is that not all oils are bad and not all oils are good, either. However, there are some oils that are used specifically for their soothing and calming properties as well as their ability to penetrate the skin to deliver vitamins, antioxidants and more. A couple of weeks ago I was at an Olay event where scientist, Shannon Weitz, shared some Myths and Facts about oils, with an emphasis on the oils that are included in the Olay Regenerist Luminous Facial Oil. Below are some facts and myths about the use of oils in skin care:
MYTH: Oils cause breakouts
FACT: Grape seed oil has a high concentration of linoleic acid, which helps fight acne while retaining moisture for soft, supple skin.
MYTH: Oils clog pores.
FACT: Unlike some synthetic oils, natural oils like apricot kernel are less likely to clog pores while helping to restore moisture.
MYTH: Oils are heavy and sit on the skin.
FACT: Natural oils are lipophilic (fat-loving) and have smaller molecules than synthetics, so they penetrate almost immediately. Coconut oil, rich in fatty acids, works to get antioxidants and vitamins into the skin surface quickly.
MYTH: Oils make skin greasy and shiny.
FACT: When using the right amount—just a few drops—natural oils absorb instantly, giving your skin a sheer glow rather than a shine.
MYTH: Oils make skin oily.
FACT: Oil balances oil. Over-cleansing can cause your body to overcompensate, producing more oil than necessary. Natural oils can help replenish and balance moisture and keep pores clear.
MYTH: Oils are not an effective anti-aging solution.
FACT: As we age, our natural oil production decreases, making wrinkles appear deeper and more defined. Naturally derived oils like tangerine absorb quickly, preventing water loss and softening the appearance of fine lines.
MYTH: Oil-free products are “better†for your skin.
FACT: Essential oils come from botanicals, which are naturally packed with antioxidants and fatty acids. They help build a protective barrier against irritants, pollution, and excessive cleansing. And since they’re generally lightweight, they penetrate the surface layers of your skin easily and help retain moisture for a brighter, more radiant glow.
MYTH: Oils aren’t right for women with naturally oily skin.
FACT: Oil balances oil. Jojoba oil, because it’s similar to the natural oils our bodies regularly make, can help balance the skin’s moisture.
MYTH: Oils are heavy.
FACT: Because they’re similar to the oil our bodies produce, natural oils like tangerine are lighter and absorb quickly, saturating your skin with vitamins and antioxidants.
Do you have a favorite oil you like to incorporate into your skincare routine?
Please share it in the comments.
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This post was written by Christene Carr. Find her on Twitter, Instagram, Tumblr, Pinterest and her personal blog.
