Self-care oils

Beauty & MakeUp Lover's Magazine

I have been preparing to write a large article about oils for various purposes for several months. I tried, raised funds, interviewed specialists, and, in the end, prepared mentally. The reason was the following circumstances: firstly, I really love oils and can’t live without them, and secondly, I come across a lot of opinions on the Internet about oils, in particular that pure oils are better for care than cosmetic ones . The latter particularly worries me.

So let's start with facial oils. I have already talked separately about all the facial oils that I currently have. And in order to collect all the links, and there were many of them, I am also writing this post. I hope it will become both a guide and a catalog of sorts.

It is a mistaken belief that pure oils are healthier for the skin of the face (and for the skin in general) than cosmetic oils. Yes, cosmetic oils involve the presence of impurities, but not in order to dilute the precious product, but in order to comprehensively influence the problem, to make the oil concentration not only useful, but also safe. Well, really, do you seriously think that all these chemists and technologists are just wasting the time and money of cosmetic corporations on research and development, if regular olive oil is a hundred times healthier? No, really?

Question "Why you should use cosmetic oils for care rather than ordinary ones“I asked the dermatologist Diana Gak:

Cosmetic oils produced under production conditions meet all standards:

• Tested for the presence or absence of unwanted impurities and microorganisms.

• Composed in laboratory conditions in such a way as to ensure safety of use (the active components of different oils should enhance each other’s actions, not weaken them).

• Safe substances are used as preservatives, allowing oils to be stored for a long time without the risk of rancidity.

Each cosmetic oil has a composition and instructions. Many oils have very detailed instructions for safe use and achieving the best results. The oils used in the course are very convenient. For example, “Smoothing concentrate with rose moschetta oil” from Weleda or Elemis oil capsules. Oils designed for frequent use have convenient dispensers, usually a pipette. How is the application of regular and, God forgive me, essential oils controlled?

What negative consequences might you encounter? Comedones, clogged pores, negative skin reaction, oily skin instead of nutrition. We must not forget that oil by itself cannot penetrate into the deep layers of the skin. It will remain on the surface. How does the oil in creams penetrate the skin? That's right, with the help of a “conductor” such as alcohol. There is nothing wrong with alcohol, it’s just that cosmetic oils require a more delicate and gentle conductor for fatty components. There are even oils that help fight oily skin (such an oil can be found at Clarins), using regular oil is more like a lottery.

What can be the danger of using non-cosmetic oil for care? Diana Gak:

With the correct selection of oil in each individual case, the risk of negative consequences is minimal. However, if your skin is prone to breakouts and oiliness in general, long-term use of oils may aggravate the process. The same applies to skin that is reactive (contact dermatitis is possible). In any case, before using oils at home, it is better to consult with a specialist, because each oil (almond, olive, fir, castor, sea buckthorn, palm, etc.) has its own individual properties.

Oils are very popular for cleansing the skin. Yes, there is no risk of drying out the skin; oil breaks down persistent ingredients in cosmetics faster than any other product. Micellar water has never dreamed of the ease with which oils are removed by Korean BB creams and waterproof mascara. If the situation is critical, a drop of olive oil can save you (let’s say you celebrated the New Year not at home and have nothing to remove your makeup, but really want to), but... if a two-phase product (especially with oil) does not save you, and micellar is not among the top favorites , That hydrophilic oil especially for you. If you don't like Korean, take natural ones. For example, from Mi&Ko. It was definitely sent from somewhere above. Super delicate, as natural as possible, cleanses in 5 seconds, leaving the skin soft and well-groomed. The hydrophilic oils from Korean manufacturers that I tried were much lighter. If oil from Mi&Ko is a godsend for normal, dry and dehydrated skin, then Korean ones seem to be suitable for everyone.

Facial oils I wrote about:

Body oils are, of course, a completely different category. If not everyone likes fat on their face, then there are more fans here. A little later I will also review universal oils; I already have several of them, but for now let’s talk about body oils.

First, I will mention massage oils. Massage is an extremely useful procedure, not only pleasant. And I'm not just talking about the relaxing side. Anti-cellulite massage works wonders. Massage relieves back and muscle pain, and generally has a positive effect on skin texture. Massage oils are typically infused with essential oils. For me, of course, lavender is my favorite. I generally love lavender, but I find it extremely effective for a relaxing massage.

Bath oils (for example, from Avon) soften water, they are also much more effective than regular essential oils because they dissolve in water. In addition to the olfactory component, it also nourishes the skin and puts you in the right mood. Depending on the situation, you can choose the appropriate remedy: something coniferous for a bath or spicy for a hammam.

Dry oils are ideal for skin care. Their beauty is that they are very silky, non-greasy, quickly absorbed, instantly soften the skin and retain moisture. Flavored dry oils are very popular these days. For example, paired with the new Mary Kay Cityscape fragrance you can find dry body oil.

It is impossible to overestimate the value of oils for figure correction. It is the oil that works most effectively on the skin when it comes to stretch marks or “orange peel” skin. Oil (ideally with massage) increases skin elasticity, which helps not only nourish the skin, but also make it smoother and denser. Be sure to use oil when playing sports, during pregnancy, and during weight loss. The most effective oils can be found in Weleda, AlpStories, Elemis, Clarins, Collistar.

Body oils I wrote about:

Hair oils might have been worth putting in a separate post, but since I also added universal oils here (Caudalie, Yves Rocher), let the oils be here too. Hair oils can be divided into leave-in and leave-in. Some time ago, in one clinic, where I underwent a preventive procedure for hair and scalp care, we started talking about oils. Oils were used for care. Of course, the first thing to note is the fact that leave-in oils do not provide long-term hair care benefits. It is most effective at the ends of the hair, since this part of the hair receives the least nutrition, but is most exposed to negative effects. Using oil on the lengths and ends helps smooth the hair, giving it shine and silkiness. The fact is that the oil envelops the hair, making it visually beautiful and tactilely pleasant. But the molecules of the oil are large enough, it does not penetrate inside. Actually, here we return to the fact that oil needs a conductor. However, it’s like with nails. What you can do with the length has no effect on the hair, you can only make it beautiful and well-groomed. To keep your hair healthy, you need to work on the scalp and hair roots.

Therefore, the only effective way to use oil is as a wash-off option. You can use oil on the roots of your hair under a cap. To do this, there are hair oils in capsules (I have already written about one such oil), or adding oil to a hair mask. In this case, the mask will work as a conductor for the oil, the oil will increase its effectiveness, and you will add what you need to your care.

You should also not overuse oil, as this can cause oily scalp and, accordingly, hair. You can add a little universal oil to the hair balm (as with a mask, but a light version). The best option for applying leave-in oil is to damp hair. And not almost dry, but slightly dried, rather wet. Yes, this way the oil will make your hair as smooth as possible, but the risk of getting oily hair is minimized.

If the oil has a dispenser (drip or pipette), then you should pay attention to the composition. More natural oils (Oblepikha Siberica, Weleda, Guam, Mi&Ko) are ideal for adding to masks, more “silicone” ones (Kerastase, Pantene, Oriflame, Hair Vital) will make your hair silky when applied to damp hair.

It is very convenient to distribute oils using plastic combs, such as the Tangle Teezer. They distribute the product evenly along the length and are easy to clean. For dry hair, use dry oils. They are also silkier and absorb faster. Also, hair oils are an ideal thermal protection, since the boiling point of oil is much higher than that of water.

Hair oils I wrote about:

As I said above, a little later I will write about universal oils, because by the time I was preparing the material, I had a couple more oils that might be interesting. Also, there will be a couple more reviews of oils that you might have seen in the photo, but for which there was no separate review.

And now the most important thing, share which oils you consider a must-have, which oils you use and whether you use them at all. Have you tried anything from my list and was the post helpful?

We tell you why coconut, almond, argan and 8 other natural oils are wonderful

Text: Daria Tatarkova

Natural oils can serve as a great help in self-care: they can help smooth out skin unevenness, cope with flaking or, on the contrary, with oiliness. Many natural oils are true multitaskers, they are cheaper than many products that contain them, and the origin and composition of the oils themselves are easy to trace. We figured out why ten natural oils are good and asked cosmetologist, pharmacist and founder of The Organic Pharmacy brand Margot Marron to comment on them.

Margot Marron
pharmacist, founder of the brand
The Organic Pharmacy

Natural oils are one of the pillars on which the world of cosmetology rests: they include vitamins A, E and many others; they moisturize, nourish, protect, they can be used on the face and hair both in pure form and as an addition to daily care, making masks out of them, instead of creams and even for washing. Despite the apparent absurdity, many natural oils perfectly dissolve makeup and skin impurities, while they themselves are not comedogenic and do not require further care. Washing with oils is also suitable for those with oily skin: the use of oils similar in composition to sebum helps regulate it and, unlike drying agents, does not cause the skin to restore the protective barrier and produce additional sebum.

Essential fatty acids, which are part of many natural oils, are extremely important for the health of the entire body and skin, but they are not synthesized by humans on their own, so they must be consumed with food. A lack of these acids leads to skin withering and its inability to absorb moisture, but their balance can be restored with the help of cosmetics and oils. Oleic acid restores damaged cell membranes so they can retain moisture again; The epidermis improves its protective functions, while the aging process of skin structures slows down and metabolism within cells is activated. Linoleic acid ensures the penetration of biologically active substances into the deep layers of the skin, promotes moisture retention in cells and helps get rid of dryness and flaking.

Always choose only unrefined, cold-pressed oils - this phrase means that the oil is obtained by pressing the raw product without any thermal or chemical treatment, which causes irreparable damage to the beneficial properties of the oil. This way you acquire the most useful and vitamin-rich substance.

Coconut

The first thing that comes to mind when it comes to beauty oils is probably coconut oil. Those who know nothing about it have clearly lived somewhere in isolation - for the last couple of years, everyone who is not too lazy has been trumpeting about its miraculous properties: from beauty bloggers to weight loss specialists and adherents of healthy cooking. Some take it before meals, some use it for oil washes, instead of hair conditioner, and some even use it when cooking instead of butter and sunflower oil.

It is important not to overdo it. Coconut oil is extremely nutritious, so try it in small quantities first. Both skin and hair become radiant from coconut oil masks - it perfectly replenishes the lack of natural oils and has antimicrobial and antibacterial properties.

Margot Marron

In most cases, in cosmetology it is customary to use refined coconut oil, but in our laboratory we prefer to use pure, first cold-pressed coconut oil, thick and dense white. Despite this thickness, it is completely non-comedogenic, has a powerful antibacterial effect, creates a protective layer on the skin that prevents sunburn and chapping, and is also suitable for all skin types.

Olive

Olive oil is good not only for Mediterranean recipes, but also for improving skin condition - it contains a large amount of antioxidants. It has anti-inflammatory properties and can be used as a base for a scrub (just please don't use sugar as an abrasive, as half of YouTube advises). The most popular combination for oil cleansing includes just this - olive oil perfectly moisturizes the skin without clogging the pores. If you combine it with castor or hazelnut oil for washing, you should take into account the characteristics of your skin: the drier it is, the more of the first you need, up to the complete abandonment of the second.

Margot Marron

When used externally, olive oil retains moisture and saturates the skin and hair with vitamins A, E, D, B and K. It perfectly cleanses the skin of impurities and removes even waterproof makeup; it can be applied instead of eye cream, and does not necessarily need to be washed off : If you don't have very oily skin, you can use the oil instead of night cream and leave it on your skin until the morning.

Castor

Castor oil can definitely come in handy to regrow your eyebrows after that unfortunate decision to pluck a little more or pluck your eyelashes, just as your grandmother advised. It is obtained from a plant with the unsightly name castor bean, but don’t let that scare you - it helps to smooth out stretch marks and scars a little, a couple of drops can be added to your daily care products, but most importantly, it is indispensable for cleansing the skin. Castor oil gently dissolves impurities and, in combination with moisturizing oil - jojoba or olive - is effectively used in oil cleansing. Contrary to popular belief, in many cases of skin problems it is not necessary to constantly dry out the skin with drugs, but to dissolve impurities without removing the skin's natural oil barrier - and this is where castor oil comes to the rescue.

Margot Marron

Ricinoleic acid, which is part of castor oil, gives it amazing nourishing and softening properties, helps cope with dry skin, flaking and loss of elasticity. However, it can cause an allergic reaction, so you need to use castor oil very carefully and precisely. Apply literally one drop at a time on your eyelashes, spreading from the tips to the base and being careful not to touch the skin of your eyelids.

tea tree

Tea tree oil, familiar to all fans of Lush, who use it in their popular Tea Tree Water. The antiseptic properties of tea tree oil cannot be compared, perhaps, with almost any other - this is the best remedy for drying out a nasty pimple overnight, or even in a couple of hours. It perfectly removes redness and helps fight oily skin without drying it out. It can be used either spot-on or as an additive to used products aimed at combating imperfections or acne. The main thing to remember is that, unlike most other oils, it is extremely toxic when taken orally, so you should not experiment, but leave it on the shelf with jars.

Margot Marron

One of the most effective essential oils. It has unique antiseptic, antifungal and bactericidal properties, and therefore is actively used both for healing cuts and burns, and for treating acne-prone skin. Despite the pronounced smell and quick effect, the oil is not allergenic and its application to the skin in its pure form does not lead to irritation or burns of the skin and mucous membranes.

Avocado

In the “most underrated oil” category, avocado oil will definitely win - there’s not as much hype around it as there is around coconut oil, but it’s definitely not inferior to it. Unlike many other oils, it is obtained not from the seeds, but from the pulp. It contains vitamins A, E, antioxidants and much more - in practice this means that if it suits you, then you can use it for everything: wash, moisturize, face, body and hair - it is truly a universal oil. Besides the fact that it can help improve skin and lighten scars and help mature skin, you can safely cook with it to reap all the nutritional benefits of avocados.

Margot Marron

Avocado oil is similar in composition to sebum. It promotes the production of collagen, has excellent restorative properties and is suitable for washing, however, it is not recommended for application to the skin as a treatment in its pure form, since it is quite heavy - it is better to mix it with other oils.

Macadamia

Macadamia is a plant native to Australia that produces incredibly tasty fatty nuts, from which the oil of the same name is subsequently obtained. In addition to the fact that they can be eaten, the substances contained in nuts - and, accordingly, in oil - have an extremely beneficial effect on the skin. Thanks to fatty acids, the oil perfectly moisturizes the skin and hair, restoring tone and elasticity, while it is perfectly absorbed. This oil will be especially well received by tired and aging skin, as well as colored and damaged hair - it will provide them with excellent growth, returning the desired healthy state. It is often used as a makeup remover if you are tired and too lazy to wash your face thoroughly.

Margot Marron

Macadamia oil is an excellent restorative and rejuvenating agent; when applied to the skin, it acts as an antioxidant, gives the skin softness and velvety, restores firmness and elasticity, moisturizing and caring for it. Contains palmitic fatty acid, which is very important for hair, which is secreted in small quantities by the sebaceous glands.

Hazelnut

Hazelnut oil is an excellent analogue of castor oil for cleansing the skin if the second one does not suit you. It is an astringent, that is, it has a tightening effect - which is not at all necessary for those with dry skin, but those who are prone to very oily skin may like this effect. The size of pores is, of course, dictated by genetics, but it helps to visually reduce them. This oil is safe in its pure form for cleansing the skin and is especially suitable for those who constantly face skin problems and inflammation. As with other nut butters, use hazelnut butter with caution if you have allergies to nuts in general.

Margot Marron

Hazelnut oil is used in the treatment of rosacea, serves as a protective barrier in sunny, windy and frosty weather, cleanses the skin and heals inflammation, which helps eliminate acne and skin abscesses, and in general is perfect for everyday care. When added to hair products, it gives shine to hair and prevents hair loss, and also “seals” hair scales and thereby allows you to preserve the color of dyed hair for a long time.

Jojoba

Many people get scared when they find out that jojoba oil (or jojoba, as you prefer) is, in the strict sense of the word, not an oil at all, but a liquid wax - immediately associations arise with something that seals the pores tightly. In fact, the oil is suitable for many people, does not cause a negative reaction from the skin, is perfectly absorbed and restores water balance. The proteins in its composition resemble collagen - it is not surprising that it is credited with the ability to restore elasticity to the skin.

Margot Marron

The composition of the oil, or actually wax, is incredibly similar to sebum, and the pH is as close as possible to the normal pH of human skin, which is why it is suitable for any skin type and regulates sebum production, dissolving sebaceous plugs. It also has anti-inflammatory and healing properties and is ideal for treating acne.

Rosehip

Rosehip oil, Miranda Kerr's favorite remedy, according to the tabloids, is one of the most nutritious. It is an excellent remedy for restoring damaged areas of the skin, promotes its renewal and healing: it helps to resolve scars, burns, acne spots, it is even recommended for the treatment of eczema. To moisturize the skin in general, it may be too oily, especially if your skin is not prone to dryness, but it is suitable for spot use - on those same scars - or as an additive to existing cosmetic products.

Margot Marron

Natural rosehip oil contains the highest amount of essential fatty acids of any known oil, which are important for the healthy functioning of cell membranes. Antioxidants in the oil - including ascorbic and retinoic acids, lycopene, lutein, rubixanthin, xanthophyll and zeaxanthin (carotenoids) - restore skin elasticity and radiance.

Almond

Many who have used sweet almond oil first of all note its light texture - unlike some other oils, it does not leave a greasy feeling at all, and is not inferior in its caring properties. It has a calming effect and helps relieve skin redness. An interesting bonus of almond oil is its ability to help with dark circles under the eyes: many people note that after using it, dark circles under the eyes become smaller. The oil has a light, even neutral odor, and therefore it is often used as a base oil. It is well absorbed, moisturizing dry and mature skin and not clogging oily and combination skin. If you have any doubts about cleansing your skin with oil or even the compatibility of oils with your facial skin care, many advise you to try almond oil first, due to its gentle but effective effect.

Margot Marron

Almond oil perfectly moisturizes and nourishes thin skin under the eyes, making it denser and thereby lightening bruises. Vitamin E helps slow down the aging process of the skin and serves as a UV filter, vitamin A moisturizes the skin, and vitamin F normalizes the functioning of the sebaceous glands and thereby prevents the expansion of pores. When purchasing, be careful and take only sweet almond oil, since bitter almonds are very toxic and are not at all intended for skin care.

Argan

If you have ever used the popular Moroccanoil oils, then you are familiar with the miraculous properties of argan oil firsthand - this is perhaps one of the most beneficial oils for hair. It is obtained from the fruits of a rare argan tree growing in Morocco. One hundred percent argan oil works even better than cosmetic products containing it, which often add silicones to ensure smooth hair. Pure argan oil can be applied to combat dryness and signs of aging throughout the body. The key is to use it sparingly because it is extremely nutritious. The oil will help heal dry cuticles, in the treatment of skin diseases, and the hair with it not only stops splitting, but also dries much faster if you apply a little after washing. The main thing to remember is that if you find cheap argan oil, it is most likely a diluted fake.

Margot Marron

One of the rarest and therefore most valuable and expensive oils. The unique nourishing and strengthening properties of argan oil are due to the very high content of vitamin E, which is an ideal natural nourishing, moisturizing, softening and healing agent. That is why argan oil is recommended for strengthening and intensive restoration of dry and split ends of hair and even nails.

Always use 100% cold-pressed oils, and before using any oil on your face, test on a small area of ​​skin to ensure there is no allergy. Be careful what oil you take internally: never experiment if it is indicated for external use only. Skin sensitivity to oils, as to any drug, is individual - always keep this in mind.

Photos: coverphoto via Shutterstock

Natural oils have recently become an increasingly popular personal care product. So, they are used instead of creams, masks and as makeup removers. Of course, switching to oils has its advantages. In particular, the naturalness of the product and the absence of harmful components in the product, guaranteed results and economical use. The main thing is to choose the right oil and learn how to use it. These are the five best oils for skin care that are best used in your daily routine.

1.Macadamia oil.

Macadamia oil - a real salvation for girls who lead an active lifestyle. Thus, it protects the skin from stress, toxins, air pollution, and other unpleasant things. At the same time, if your skin already looks tired, macadamia oil will easily restore its healthy appearance.

In addition, this oil will easily nourish dry skin, guard eternal youth and smooth out fine wrinkles. Note that macadamia oil is suitable for aging or dry skin. For normal and oily skin it will be too heavy for daily care.

2.Castor oil.

Castor oil, despite its very modest price tag, is a true treasure trove for self-care. Firstly, it perfectly cares for eyelashes and eyebrows, stimulating their growth. Secondly, it is ideal for caring for the skin around the eyes when the first wrinkles appear there. Castor oil also does an excellent job of maintaining the elasticity of the skin on the chest (for this you need to do a daily massage using castor oil), and can become a means for the prevention and treatment of cellulite (for this, do wraps with honey and castor oil). Suitable for all skin types.

3.Coconut oil.

Coconut oil will be an excellent assistant in hair care, makeup removal, body and face care. It is worth noting that castor oil is one of the few oils that works great in caring for problem skin. In particular, coconut oil relieves inflammation, heals wounds, removes post-acne marks and reduces the number of rashes.

Note that the only danger of using coconut oil on your face is that it can clog your pores.

4.Avocado oil.

Avocado oil stimulates the production of collagen and elastin, thereby improving the condition of the skin and rejuvenating it. The oil also stimulates oxygen exchange, removes all signs of fatigue and keeps the skin in excellent condition. It should also be noted that avocado oil can be used for hair care: it restores and moisturizes it.

The oil is suitable for use on all skin types. It can be used both in pure form and in combination with the usual cream.

5, Sesame oil.

Sesame oil has a rich history. This oil was chosen by the creators of Ayurveda. Its consistency is thick, almost viscous. Its color is deep yellow, like the sun. The main components of this oil: Vitamins: E, A, C, K and pyridoxine; minerals: phosphorus, copper, calcium, zinc, magnesium. The main wealth of the oil is omega 3 acids and antioxidants. These “ingredients” are healing not only for the skin, but for the entire body as a whole. Sesame oil for the face is the ideal “savior” of dry, aging skin. Thanks to its high content of fatty acids, the oil nourishes and moisturizes the skin, restores it and prevents dryness. The presence of antioxidants - A, C and E protect the skin from oxidative processes, delaying aging and decreased skin tone. Due to the high content of antiseptics and bacteriophages, sesame oil effectively relieves the skin of abrasions, wounds and other damage. In addition, the oil is used in the treatment of eczema and psoriasis.