“Typically, when you hear the words "oil" and "skin" in the same sentence, it's a recipe for disaster. But sometimes oil can actually set you on the path towards a gorgeous complexion. Crazy as it sounds, face oils can work wonders on any number of skin care woes, and transform skin from dull to dazzling” says Chrissy Callahan of Today.com

We have the same experience at Everly Grace. Many people are hesitant to add an oil to their skin care routine, as it implies oily or shine on the skin surface and we’ve spent so many efforts trying to prevent that! Often, a facial oil is part of many facials, so when you’re laying there with your eyes closed all relaxed, it’s very likely that some sort of oil is being applied to your face.. why not make it part of your daily routine?

Use Oil on my Face? Really?

Facial oils are just a step in the process in caring for your skin. They work with your cleanser, toner, serum and moisturizer to keep skin balanced and hydrated. This “army” of solutions work with your natural oils to help keep your skin balanced.

"Our skin naturally makes oils and lipids, which help prevent water loss from our skin and keep it hydrated. Face oils are substances that help complement our natural oils. If you think of the skin as a brick wall, the skin cells are the bricks and the oils and lipids are the mortar, which holds the bricks together in place and prevents anything from seeping through. Face oils are considered a type of emollient, which means they help strengthen the outer layer of your skin — the stratum corneum — by softening and sealing it, preventing water loss," González said. (source).

It does take a little bit to train the skin to work with a facial oil. At first, it can seem like slime and may feel uncomfortable. This might cause you to touch your face more. Your hair might even become oily, especially if you apply oil at night. Your natural facial oils will learn how to work together with the facial oils.

Should I Just Use any Oil?

There are many oils out there that are great, but just not for the face. Something like coconut oil has many benefits for your skin, but it can potentially clog pores, so applying pure coconut oil to your skin should be avoided. This same theory goes for pure avocado oil, vegetable oil or even olive oil. Bottom line: if it’s on the grocery store shelf and meant to be eaten, it’s not something to put on your face. While many skin care products use these as ingredients, it’s best to leave the “recipe” up to the experts and purchase items intended specifically for skin.

Many people are tempted to use anything labeled “oil” but keep in mind that oils are usually derived from a plant product and knowing if that plant’s oil is good for you is right for your skin. For example, an essential oil like lemon or orange is likely a bad idea, whereas an oil like rose or lavender (diluted) would be ok.