Dermatologists often talk about keeping your skin ‘oil-free’ and endorse and recommend skincare products that are free of oil. But dermatologist Dr Apratim Goel says, “As I get a deep understanding of face oils over the years, I admit that it is an amazing world with so many ingredients and most of them are therapeutic. Not only are face oils a cure for dry skin, but they are also effective at treating a wide range of skin conditions, right from hyperpigmentation, stretch marks to acne.”

What is it

Experts say that face oils are soft and light preparations that have natural oils like avocado, argan, olive, sesame etc, as their base along with therapeutic ingredients. Dermatologist Dr Soma Sarkar says, “We recommend argan, almond and olive oils for the face. These oils have mosituring properties, are used in many face products and are great for dry skins. Women who have oily, acne prone skin can use tea-tree oil — avoid applying on the entire face — use an ear bud to apply a drop of tea tree oil on the acne.”

Why use face oils

Face oils have many benefits thanks to the different ingredients. Here are a few of them… w Rich in antioxidants Many botanical oils, including argan, passion fruit etc are potent antioxidants. A few drops can be used under your sunscreen or foundation. It works as a moisturizer as well as a primer.

Prevents inflammation

Some oils like argan oil have anti-inflammatory properties and prevent inflammation caused by other active ingredients. Hence, they are ideal bases for skin formulations.

Great hydrants

These oils are lipophilic in nature and they penetrate through the lipid layer of the skin and prevent water or moisture loss. For example olive oil, coconut oil etc.

Anti-ageing properties

Since the oils are combined with anti-ageing ingredients like retinol, glycolic acid and vitamin C, they help in faster and deeper penetration of these molecules into the skin, thereby augmenting the anti-ageing benefits. It also counters the irritation caused by these molecules.

Combats rosacea

Certain aroma oils like orange, tea tree, peppermint etc actually help in reducing acne and rosacea. However this should be done after consultation with an expert.