Deciding which product is best to moisturize your face is one of the most important decisions you will make in your daily skincare regimen because your moisturizer is a product that sits atop and protects your skin all day long. A cleanser is only on your skin for a few moments, and a mask for usually 5 to 20 minutes so you can see why something that will be there all day is so important to get right.
I personally use a hemp seed oil based face oil these days after years of exploration to figure out my skin’s favorite things.
Growing up I always thought oil was bad for me. Like almost everyone else, I was completely convinced if any kind of oil got anywhere near my face I’d be cursed with zits for days. Who knew oils would become my face’s best friend?
Let’s start by dispelling a few myths about oils.
Myth #1: Oil will clog my pores and cause acne.
Fact: Some oils are 100% Non Comodegenic (how likely a product is to clog pores) and non acnegenic (how likely a product is to cause acne), while others may be slightly comedogenic, or highly comedogenic. My favorite non clogging, non acnegenic, and breathable oils are hemp seed oil, sunflower oil, safflower oil, and argan oil.
Myth #2: Glowing skin means the skin is greasy or dirty.
Fact: Glowing skin usually means it is well hydrated and healthy, although occasionally it can mean the skin is over producing oil.
Myth #3: Face Oils will feel heavy on my skin.
Fact: Most Oils are more breathable than a cream or lotion and feel lightweight on the skin.
Myth #4: Creams are less likely to inflame sensitive skin.
Fact: Although some creams are formulated to be hypoallergenic, many have a long list of ingredients. Face oils however, usually only consist of 1 to 4 carrier oils and essential oils. Typically with fewer ingredients, the risk of something inflaming the skin is lower simply because there are less things being put onto the skin.
I usually ask my clients if they prefer a “glow”, or a “matte” look, because I want to ensure I send them home after their services with the appearance they desire, VS. what I think looks best (I always recommend/ personally prefer the “youthful glow”). However our society has been brainwashed into believing the glow is grease or poor hygiene, which is simply not always true. I carry a variety of facial creams, and facial oils to ensure my ability to accommodate everyone.
Determining what’s best for you!
To determine what you will prefer, ask yourself the following questions.
- Do I like a glow or a matte look? If you prefer to glow, a face oil is in most cases a better solution, if you prefer a matte look, go with a light cream.
- Do I like a light feel, or a thicker feel? Usually, oils are lighter, while creams are thicker.
- Do I have sensitive skin? If you have sensitive skin I recommend a face oil with calming ingredients, unless you have a tried and true cream you know your skin loves, in which case, don’t change it up.
- Am I hypersensitive to the sun? If yes, a cream with a high SPF might be your best bet, while if not an oil with natural sun protection might be enough for you.
- If you have no clue and feel overwhelmed, schedule a customized facial with me and I’ll do the detective work for you, and help you put your best face forward.
It is also important to think about the different benefits of the ingredients to determine which is best for you!
If your skin is acne prone, look for: tea tree oil, salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, witch hazel, lemon oil, azelaic acid, glycolic acid, mandelic acid, hemp seed oil, argan oil, sunflower oil, safflower oil, and aloe.
If your skin is dry, look for: Shea butter, coconut oil, olive oil (but not if your skin is prone to acne), rosehip seed oil, vitamin E, aloe, frankincense, sandalwood, lavender, chamomile, jojoba, and lactic acid.
If your skin is sun damaged or scarred, look for: daisy, kojic acid, vitamin c, licorice, evening primrose oil, geranium, rose, tea tree, lemon, sandalwood, carrot seed, glycolic acid, mandelic acid.
If your skin is sensitive, look for calming ingredients: frankincense, lavender, chamomile, sandalwood, aloe.
Keep in mind, whether you decide on a lotion, a cream, or an oil as your moisturizer, I always suggest a good cleanser, toner, and serum prior to the application of your moisturizer. Also don’t forget to exfoliate as needed throughout the month to keep away the dullness.
If you need help, hit me up and I will get you on the correct routine. Brandi@OldMechanicsvilleHealthSpa.com
