Oil. Such a dirty word, isn’t it? Conjuring up visions of oil slicks, greasy food, deep fat fryers and greasy t-zones – it’s no wonder we’re wary of slathering it on our faces.
But oily fish, olive oil, nuts and seeds, and avocado – all foods that contain good fats and a high oil content – are known to work wonders for our skin, hair and nails. Not to mention the benefits for our minds, joints, metabolism and hormones. And so doesn’t it makes sense to nourish our face with oils, too?
Quite often, people look at me in horror when I mention facial oils, assuming they leave behind a greasy residue. They worry this build-up will lead to breakouts. Though this isn’t the case. Depending on the formula, and what other ingredients are in there, oils and essential oils have a healing and calming effect on our skin.
In fact, when I went into the I’m a Celebrity camp, I was allowed to take my Omega oils with me. They were supposed to be used for a hormone problem, though, halfway through filming when my skin was craving moisture, I cracked open a capsule and sneakily massaged the oils into my face. My complexion was instantly soothed and hydrated. And so I kept at it until I left camp– though that can be our little secret!
During these cold February nights, I like to hibernate and look after my seriously dry skin. There’s nothing I enjoy more than sitting in front of the fire, watching TV and giving my face a good toning and moisture boosting massage with delicious smelling oils. I’ve made it my mission to convert others to the healing power of oils. Conditions such as eczema, psoriasis and acne can all benefit from a wisely chosen oil-based treatment. A few drops of oil onto freshly cleansed skin, or into your moisturiser at the start of end of each day, can energise your skin and calm a multitude of problems.
These days, a lot of brands are calling their oils ‘oil serums’, so as not to freak anyone out. And I get it, I really do – for those of us with oily or combination skin, the idea of adding more oil to our faces seems crazy. However, oils can actually help to rebalance and correct the over production of sebum – the oil responsible for blocked pores and greasy t-zones.
One of my long-time favourites is Decléor’s Aromessence Neroli Concentrate (£38.50 for 15ml, available at lookfantastic.com). It’s a super luxurious, heavenly smelling oil and my sister, Lesley Ann, even swears by oils too. She has combination skin, and loves Decléor’s ylang-ylang formula, which helps rebalance excessive oil production.
Next up is Votary’s Rose Maroc and Sandalwood facial oil (£65 for 30 ml, available at spacenkco.uk). This is the perfect night-time treat for dehydrated complexions and contains retinol which is great for more mature skin. During colder weather, this blend of natural oils soothes away dry and irritated patches.
I also use oils from Odacite. Their Eye Contour Serum (£39 for 5ml, available at spacenk.co.uk) is packed full of vitamins and plant sterols, which plump up the delicate eye area and help smooth out fine lines and crow’s feet. I also love their Pimples Serum Concentrate (£27.50 for 5ml, available at cultbeauty.co.uk). Black cumin oil helps to draw out impurities, and Cajeput stops potential breakouts in their tracks. With a whole range of solutions for every skin type, Odacite is a good place to find your perfect oil.
If you’re oil phobic, I hope this post has convinced you to give them a go. With the right prescription, I promise your complexion will radiate health! If you have an oil you’d like to share with the readers of You Glow Girl, pop it in the comments below.