Ah, oils. Theyāre either the hero ingredient or the villain in your skincare routine, depending on who you ask. Some people swear by slathering oils for every skin woe, while others avoid them like the plague, especially if theyāre prone to breakouts. So, do you really need to ditch them? Letās dive into the science, debunk some of the biggest myths, and discover The Truth About Oils. āØ
Myth #1: Oils Make Oily Skin Oilierāand Cause Breakouts! š„
Letās set the record straight: not all oils are created equal. If you have combination or breakout-prone skin (hey, Iām with you!), the right oils can actually balance things out.
Certain oils are ānon-comedogenic,ā which means theyāre less likely to clog your pores. Oils like jojoba, squalane, and rosehip are lightweight, absorb quickly, and can help regulate sebum production. š
š§Ŗ Science Insight: A study in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology found that oils high in linoleic acid (like rosehip and evening primrose) are beneficial for acne-prone skin. Research suggests that people prone to breakouts may have lower levels of linoleic acid, leading to more inflammation.
- Barefaced Tip: Worried about breakouts? Start smallājust a couple of drops after cleansing. Your skin might just thank you!
Myth #2: They Are Only for Dry Skin Typesšµ
Hereās the plot twist: oily and combo skin can benefit from oils too! When your skin feels stripped (often from harsh cleansers), it goes into overdrive, producing even more oil to compensate.
Lightweight oils like jojoba or squalane can actually help keep your skin balanced.
- š BareFaced Tip: As someone with combo skin, Iāve found that applying a couple of drops of squalane oil keeps my skin balanced and reduces midday shine. Game changer!
Myth #3: Oil Cleansing is Too Rich for Acne-prone Skinš§¼
Oil cleansing might sound like a no-no if youāre prone to breakouts, but hereās the thingāit can actually work wonders. The secret? āLike dissolves likeā: oils in the cleanser bind to impurities and excess sebum, lifting them away without stripping your skin.
š¬ Science Insight: The International Journal of Cosmetic Science found that sunflower oil (high in linoleic acid) is effective for those needing lightweight cleansing options.
- š§“ Barefaced Tip: Try a gentle cleansing balm with non-comedogenic oils like sunflower or grapeseed oil. They melt away makeup and grime, leaving your skin feeling clean but not parched.
Myth #4: Oils Make You Look Greasyš¦
Picture this: Youāve just applied your favourite oil and now youāre worried youāll look like a disco ball. But fear not! The key is choosing fast-absorbing oils like squalane or jojoba and using just a drop or two.
- āØ Barefaced Tip: Apply your oils while your face is still damp for faster absorption and a hydrated glow (not a greasy shine).
Myth #5: All Natural Oils Are Safe for Everyoneš±
Just because an oil is natural doesnāt mean itās perfect for all skin types. Some oils, like coconut or olive oil, are richer and can clog pores, especially if youāre breakout-prone. Stick to oils that are known to be ānon-comedogenicā for a safer bet.
- š BareFaced Tip: New to oils? Patch-test first! Apply a small amount on your jawline to see how your skin reacts before slathering it on.
So… Are Oils Friend or Foe?š¤·āāļø
Hereās the truth about oils: they can be both! Itās all about choosing the right oils for your skin type and using them in moderation. For combination or acne-prone skin, oils high in linoleic acid (like rosehip, evening primrose, and grapeseed) can keep your skin balanced without clogging pores.
š Want to learn more? Pop on over to Rebecca Isabel Skincare for honest, no-fluff advice on choosing the best oils for your skin type
Happy debunking, and may your skin stay balanced and glowing! š