What is a facial oil and what can it do?

The highly concentrated all-rounder enhances any beauty routine - if it is used correctly. We will show you what you need to watch out for in the process.

Facial Oil: What you ought to know about the beauty product

The beauty drops have now secured themselves a permanent spot on the cosmetics shelf. But what is facial oil all about? And how do you use it correctly?

What are facial oils?

The term “facial oil” refers to very particular beauty mixtures that focus on the specific requirements of various skin types. They allow a more targeted approach to skincare than pure plant-based oils such as coconut or almond oil, for example.

Facial oils impart a delicate, cared-for sensation on the skin. In addition, they help maintain a healthy barrier function and thus protect the skin from moisture loss and environmental factors. Perfect if you are looking for an extra dose of care.

These beauty helpers can be used over the short term - but are also suitable for long-term use. This should come as no surprise, because their possible applications are highly varied:

As an extra treatment for a silky-soft skin sensation
As a highlighter for the lips
To thin foundation for an especially natural look
As a make-up remover: add a few drops to a cotton pad and run it gently across the face

Applying facial oil correctly

Are you wondering how to incorporate facial oil into your skincare routine? It’s very simple: apply a few drops of the product to your cleansed face while it’s still slightly damp and gently massage into the skin. You can then apply your usual day or night cream.

What is the best facial oil for your skin type?

First, the good news: anyone can use beauty oil. But not all facial oils are the same. We’ll explain what you need to look out for when choosing yours.

The right oil for every skin

What is the right facial oil for impure skin? What about mature skin? Which product goes best with which skin type depends, among other things, on how high a proportion of unsaturated fatty acids is in the base oil. If it is less than 20 per cent, this is a so-called non-drying oil. If it amounts to more than 50 per cent, we talk about a “drying oil”.

Oily or impure skin: for these types, you can’t go wrong with a product whose base oil is drying – meaning it is quickly absorbed – and therefore gives shine formation no chance.

Sensitive skin: this reacts quickly with redness or irritation. So as not to overtax this skin type, you should ensure that the oil is fragrance-free.

Mature skin: a special anti-aging oil suits this type. Some products are enriched with argan oil, for example. This is rich in unsaturated fatty acids and contains plenty of vitamin E – a vital antioxidant.

Normal skin: this type is especially uncomplicated, but deserves an extra dose of care, nonetheless. Preferably go for a light, refreshing product.

Dry skin: rich products with care formulas that contain non-drying oils, such as almond or jojoba, will do this type good. Dry skin will benefit from special treatment in winter in particular – when it has to contend with the constant switch between heated air indoors and biting cold outdoors.

It’s all in the blend

It’s important to ensure that the facial oil is coordinated with the respective skin type. For combination or impure skin, it should not be comedogenic, meaning it should not block the pores. Otherwise it can lead to spots.

Can a facial oil replace cream?

Whether you prefer to use an oil or a moisturising cream for your daily facial care is a question of personal preference and your skin type. The two products differ first and foremost in their texture: while an oil is liquid, creams can be spread and are more solid.

Just like a cream, facial oil also contains, alongside pure fat, very particular skin-nourishing ingredients that suit different skin types.

However: in addition to the nourishment they provide, most day creams also offer protection against sunlight, which is indispensable.

Which means that it is best to use facial oil in combination with your usual day or night cream to thoroughly pamper your skin.

Bonus tip: relaxation massage with facial oil

Combine applying your oil with a therapeutic facial massage – for example: place both index and middle fingers at either side of your nose. Gently stroke towards the temples on both sides simultaneously ten times. Repeat this another ten times a little deeper, level with the tip of the nose.