The Mistakes You’re Making When Using a Face Oil

I’m an esthetician, and I know how popular face oils have become in the last few years—and rightfully so. They can be excellent for many skin types, and they provide a beautiful glow. But in my experience, I've noticed that many people are using them incorrectly. Here's my advice on avoiding face oil mistakes and instead, learning what you need to know about using face oils.

1) Oils retain moisture; they don't add moisture

Folks often ask me, "Are face oils great for hydrating the skin?" In short, the answer is no. Oils moisturize skin, but they can't hydrate it. Oils are occlusive ingredients that create a physical barrier, and that helps to trap moisture in the skin. But oils can't carry hydration the way that humectant ingredients (such as water, hyaluronic acid, vegetable glycerin, honey, and aloe) can. Those work by attracting water from the air and produce itself to draw moisture into the skin, which will hydrate skin cells. That's why the order in which you apply skin care matters. More on this in a minute.

2) Oils can clog pores if used incorrectly

Some oils are more comedogenic, or pore-clogging, and that can cause congestion and breakouts. I advise staying away from oils such as mineral oil, coconut oil, olive oil, and palm oil. So what oils can you use? Look for non-comedogenic lightweight oils such as marula, milk thistle, amla, prickly pear, and amla.

3) Apply oil at the very end of your skin-care regimen.

Our product EVERY MOOD, also duals as a nourishing moisturizer. Here’s how to apply it to your daily ritual.

Use some kind of humectant product (such as a toner or serum) before applying oil. This ensures you are providing skin with hydration, while oil locks in that moisture. If you apply oil first, any product that follows won’t be able to properly penetrate the oil barrier. It's just like applying body lotion over your clothing—it just doesn’t make sense. Pat it in gently then give a light massage to ensure oil is evenly applied.