Face oils are good all year round but are especially beneficial in winter. When temperatures drop, they are like a snug winter coat for your skin. Nourishing and comforting, they also help restore the skin’s barrier and provide a level of hydration that lighter products often can’t. Plus, they are extremely versatile as they can be used in the morning and night, on their own or added to your moisturiser.
Why We Love Them
* They mimic the skin’s natural oils: Oils like jojoba, squalane, and argan are chemically like the skin’s natural oil so they are highly compatible. They absorb easily, help balance oil production, and reinforce the lipid barrier to keep moisture in.
* They lock in moisture: Oils are occlusive which means they create a barrier over the skin to prevent water loss. To combat moisture loss from dry air and indoor heating, layer your oil over a water-based serum or moisturiser to help seal in hydration.
* They help dry, flaky and sensitive winter skin: Many oils are rich in omega-3, 6, and 9 fatty acids, which support skin cell structure, repair the skin barrier and calm inflammation. Oils like chamomile, rosehip or calendula have anti-inflammatory properties that calm and restore comfort to irritated skin.
* They’re packed with antioxidants and vitamins: Plant oils often contain naturally occurring antioxidants (like vitamin E and polyphenols) and skin-repairing vitamins (like A, D and K) which help protect against environmental stressors but also support regeneration which can be slowed in colder months.
* They enhance glow and suppleness: Oils help improve texture and softness for instant radiance.
6 Of the Best Luxe Oils
1. Future Me The Nourishing Face Oil contains the exceptional FutureBlend technology which helps stimulate elastin production and boosts elasticity and firmness, while improving skin tone. The fragrance is divine! R5 200.
2. Sisley Black Rose Precious Face Oil is ideal for dry or mature skin, it contains a high concentration of plant-based active anti-ageing ingredients, including omega 3 and 6. The delicious Black Rose soothes and softens. R4 450.
3. Elemis Superfood Facial Oil feeds the skin with a blend of 9 superfood oils including broccoli, rosehip, flaxseed, and Daikon radish. Massage in for a healthy glow. R1 280.
4. Nuxe Huile Prodigieuse is the ultimate all-rounder. The nourishing Tsubaki oil is the secret and with an anti-pollution ‘shield’ and addictive scent this is a staple in my beauty bag. R765.
5. Haylo Botanicals Renew Drops Face Oil has 16 African oils, botanicals and active ingredients that work together to deliver multiple results: hydration, protection, improved elasticity and supports cell turnover. Best of all – it’s local! R989.
6. The Natural Africa Kalahari Melon Seed Oil – another local hero – is rich in fatty acids, vitamins and antioxidants to hydrate and brighten the skin. It also helps reduce the appearance of scars and fine lines. R550.
