Not sold on facial oils? We don’t blame you! Clogged pores, a shiny complexion—putting oil on your face is a little counterintuitive. While it’s common to be wary of concepts we may not understand (like using oil as a moisturizer), it’s time to set the record straight about facial oils. We went to celebrity facialist, and founder of Joanna Vargas Salon and Skincare Collection, Joanna Vargas to help us uncover fact from fiction.
Why Are People Afraid Of Using Facial Oils?
“For so many years skin care was all about stripping skin with glycolics and retinols, but now we know that eliminating oil on the surface of skin will just signal skin to produce more oil,” says Vargas. “The modern approach to skin care is to use oil to our advantage. In other words, fight oil with oil!”
Can All Skin Types Use Facial Oils?
“Anyone can use a face oil. If you have oily skin, jojoba oil is great for signaling skin to stop producing so much oil, whereas using a glycolic will signal skin to produce more,” explains Vargas. “This is why people have trouble with glycolics—the moment you stop using them, your skin is a mess again. Those with acneic skin should be careful when using oils and should consult their dermatologist or facialist before applying oils.”
Are Specific Oils Better For Certain Skin Conditions?
“Rosehip oil is great for protecting skin against photoaging,” says Vargas. “I always tell my younger clients that the sun is the cause of everything they will ever complain about regarding their skin as they age. It leads to pigmentation, elasticity loss and fine lines and wrinkles.”
Our Product Pick: KORA Organics Luxurious Rosehip Oil, $49
“Neroli oil is amazing for your circulation. It will give your skin a beautiful glow that’s youthful and fresh after just one use,” says Vargas.
Our Product Pick: African Botanics Neroli Infused Marula Oil, $120
Vargas explains, “Avocado oil is loaded with vitamins and hydrates skin without clogging pores. It provides essential fatty acids that help calm inflamed skin and stimulate the lymphatic system.”
Our Product Pick: Jurlique Skin Balancing Face Oil, $50
“Argan oil contains high concentrations of antioxidants—which every skin type needs—and protects against sun damage and pollution by preventing skin cells from mutating under these harsh conditions,” says Vargas.
Our Product Pick: Rodin Olio Lusso Face Oil, $170
If you’re not ready to start a face oil regimen just yet, ease into it with a cleansing oil. Vargas tell us “They are less harsh than a foam and won’t throw skin’s pH levels off as much. They are also more gentle, especially on the eye area where skin is superthin and sensitive.”
Our Product Pick: Lancôme Huile Douceur Remove-All Deep Cleansing Oil, $37
