Facial

Oils

Also known as ‘high value carrier oils’, the facial oils listed below are misleadingly not typically used as carrier oils, mainly due to two factors – cost and composition. Because these oils are typically costly and have a strong scent, a thick consistency, or are richly pigmented, they are best used in smaller quantities rather than as a base. Such oils are designed to add value to skincare products in the form of antioxidants, compounds and minerals.

Raspberry Seed

Strawberry seed oil is a plentiful source of linolenic acid and omega-3. Such properties are extremely beneficial when it comes to keeping the skin young. This oil is also rich in ellagic acid – a powerful antioxidant responsible for helping to repair skin and DNA that has been damaged by everyday variables like UV rays and other such environmental stressors. Due to the fact that strawberry oil naturally contains salicylic acid, this makes it beneficial in helping to naturally tighten the pores of your skin, shed dead skin cells as well as other unwanted impurities, and treat dermal conditions like discoloration and age spots. Additionally, strawberries are known to be a good source of AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids) and vitamin C which are known for their role in helping to balance sebum production and combat acne.

Strawberry Seed

Strawberry seed oil is a plentiful source of linolenic acid and omega-3. Such properties are extremely beneficial when it comes to keeping the skin young. This oil is also bountiful in ellagic acid – a powerful antioxidant responsible for helping to repair skin and DNA that has been damaged by everyday variables like UV rays and other such environmental stressors. Due to the fact that strawberry seed oil naturally contains salicylic acid, this makes it beneficial in helping to naturally tighten the pores of your skin, shed dead skin cells as well as other unwanted impurities, and treat dermal conditions like discoloration and age spots. Additionally, strawberries are known to be a good source of AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids) and vitamin C, which are both known for their role in helping to balance sebum production and combat acne.

Blueberry Seed

Effective against blue and UV light, blueberry seed oil is packed with phytonutrients, essential fatty acids, vitamins and carotenoids. Vitamins A, B complex, C and E as well as omega-3 fatty acids combine to boost skin elasticity and hydration levels, thus helping to target and soften the visibility of wrinkles. In addition to this, blueberry seed oil’s phospholipids and carotenoids also work together, the result of which is not only shielding the skin against UV but also free radical-related damage, an outcome that is instrumental in helping to prevent the effects of photoaging. Due to the fact that it’s a gentle, non-comedogenic oil, blueberry seed can be applied topically to all skin types from oily to mature skin. The non-clogging hydration boost that it provides helps to balance out the production of sebum, thus going towards preventing breakouts. In this vein, it’s also important to touch upon the anthocyanins that blueberries contain. Anthocyanins are classed as flavonoids which, aside from providing blueberries with their distinctive coloring, harbors antioxidant properties that actively contribute towards combating inflammation, especially that which is associated with premature dermal aging. Tissue damage can result from inflammation since inflammation unleashes oxidants which target tissue, a process known as oxidative stress. By helping to inhibit such stress, blueberry seed oil is a great helping hand in the anti-aging skincare world.

Passion Fruit Seed

Passion fruit seed oil, sometimes referred to as maracuja oil, is a fruity oil that’s bursting with skin-boosting nutrients. Rich in fatty acids like linoleic and oleic acid, vitamins A, C and E as well as calcium, copper and magnesium have seen this oil rise in popularity in recent years. While vitamins A and C get to work rejuvenating the skin, vitamin E helps to protect it. Linoleic and oleic acid are recognized for their ability in helping the skin to maintain hydration and therefore dermal plumpness. Vitamin A, a product of the carotenoids found in this fruit, is recognized for its wrinkle reducing properties, making it a much beloved must-have when it comes to natural skincare routines. Another benefit of passion fruit seed oil is the fact that it’s non-greasy and is easily absorbed into the skin. This makes it suitable for most skin types, from those prone to oiliness and blemishes to skin that’s mature or suffering from dryness. On this note, it’s worth taking into account that passion fruit oil has been promoted as a potential helping hand in terms of helping to tame acne-prone skin and prevent any ensuing flare-ups.

Buriti

Derived from the fruit of the Maurita flexuosa palm tree, buriti oil has proven to be a valuable anti-aging asset in skin and hair care. Dubbed ‘the tree of life’, buriti oil is moisturizing, anti-inflammatory and has actually been proven to be a more potent source of beta-carotene than carrots. Rich in a variety of fatty acids and minerals, it also contains vitamins C and E which aid in defending the skin against UV damage by combating free radicals and helping to slow dermal aging. Boasting a larger amount of vitamin E than that found in argan oil, buriti is highly moisturizing. Oleic acid, carotenoids and tocopherols lend additional protective, rejuvenating and firming properties that help to ensure the health of skin cells.

Cranberry

Plentiful in vitamin E, essential fatty acids and phytosterols (plant hormones), cranberry oil is a highly hydrating oil. One of this oil’s more unique qualities is that its ratio of essential fatty acids, omega-3 and omega-6, is 1:1 which helps to increase dermal absorbency and antioxidant activity. Such a ratio additionally contributes to making this a non-greasy oil that helps to treat various skin types and conditions like psoriasis and eczema. Rich in linoleic acid, cranberry oil has great emollient properties which make it very effective in helping to hydrate dermal tissue.

Hibiscus

Extolled as nature’s botox, hibiscus oil is bursting with anti-aging properties that have seen it gain recognition in the skincare market over the years. Containing naturally-occurring antioxidants and AHAs, hibiscus is a force to be reckoned with. Antioxidants are widely recognized for their ability to rejuvenate the skin by protecting it against free radical damage, while AHAs help to brighten and smooth out the complexion whilst also tackling breakouts. The stem of the hibiscus flower contains mucilage which is a natural substance likened to gel in texture, and is said to help maintain dermal hydration levels. In addition to this, hibiscus oil is also high in anthocyanosides – antioxidants that help to combat free radical damage. Their astringent qualities are also great at improving the appearance of the skin by reducing pore size. While these aspects make hibiscus oil a great anti-aging treatment for the skin, it’s also beneficial for those with acne-prone skin as well since this oil’s purifying and anti-inflammatory effects encourages cell turnover rate, and is even said to aid in preventing acne breakouts.

Papaya

Papaya oil has multiple skin-improving perks. It houses ample amounts of vitamins A, C and E, all of which assist in lightening the appearance of scars, blemishes and other such marks as well as promoting overall skin health and hydration. The enzymes found in papaya, chymopapain and papain, have been shown to alleviate inflammation and treat acne. This is possible due to such properties being able to dissolve dead skin cells that are notoriously known to clog pores. The antioxidant lycopene that is found in papaya has long been said to have the potential to reduce age-related signs like wrinkles and fine lines in addition to impeding damage from free radicals. Due to papaya being a non-comedogenic oil, it is able to be effortlessly absorbed into the skin which allows for a non-greasy glow and an improved, even complexion.

Carrot Seed

Packed with vitamins and antioxidants, carrot seed oil is full of skin regenerating properties that are praised for their ability to revitalize the skin. Anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial, this oil has been advocated as a treatment for psoriasis, dermatitis, vitiligo and eczema among other skin conditions due to its calming effects on the skin. It has been reported that carrot oil has shown potential in helping to protect the skin from the sun, but this does not mean that you should use it in lieu of sunscreen. Carrot seed oil has been said to help balance the skin, whether oily or dry, and provides a non-comedogenic hydration boost. This makes it ideal for all skin types, even those prone to sensitivity. Rejuvenating in nature, this oil also contains carotenoids – antioxidants that are known for promoting dermal elasticity, alongside smaller pores which work together to further improve the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. You should take note, however, of this oil’s comedogenic rating. Because it rates slightly higher on the scale, it should be used in moderation, and hence always be diluted with a carrier oil prior to being applied directly to the skin.

Marshmallow Root

Marshmallow root oil is a far cry from the sugary confectionery you would normally associate with its namesake. Marshmallow root is known for its anti-inflammatory and emollient properties when used in skincare. While commonly put to use in treating ailments like digestive issues and coughs, it’s also very effective in moisturizing the skin and relieving redness, especially that associated with skin conditions like dermatitis, furunculosis and eczema. Not only this, but it’s also received praise from those prone to sensitivity and allergies. It’s full of antioxidants and vitamins, and contains various flavonoids and polysaccharides that are related with the repairing process of dermal tissue. As such, it’s a very useful oil to have on hand – when used in skincare, it’s reported to help soften the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, leaving the skin feeling hydrated and rejuvenated.

Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is one of the best known ingredients in skincare. Its cooling, anti-inflammatory effects have seen it used in many products, especially those targeted at people with irritated and/or sensitive skin. Aloe vera oil is not technically a product on its own because aloe vera oil actually comes from blending aloe vera extracts with a carrier oil of your choice. This oil mix has been reported to house great anti-aging benefits as the process used to withdraw the aloe extracts is meant to ensure that the aloe vera is still rich with nutrients like phytochemicals, which are antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory. These are great as they help to balance out the skin and soothe any reactions the skin may be experiencing, no matter which type it falls under.

Arnica

Arnica is, first and foremost a healing flower, famously used over the centuries for calming and providing relief from various ailments. Anti-inflammatory by nature, arnica oil has seen use in treating anything from bruises to skin conditions and, as a result, is recognized in the skincare world for its potential in combating acne. Arnica oil can aid in toning the skin and increasing circulation, both of which go towards rejuvenating the skin and improving its appearance. Arnica flowers are a source of flavonoids and carotenoids. Flavonoids are credited with arnica’s anti-inflammatory properties while carotenoids are a naturally-occurring form of vitamin A derived from plants and are used for their protective properties in skincare products.

Hemp Seed

An important distinction to be aware of before using this oil is that hemp seed oil is not CBD oil. Hemp oil is extracted from the seeds of the plant whereas CBD is formulated from the flowers, stalks and leaves, all of which contain cannabidiol. That doesn’t mean that hemp seed oil is any less potent in its skincare advantages – despite not being infused with CBD, hemp seed oil has many health and skin benefits. Hemp seed oil is a very nourishing, hydrating oil that’s rich in omega-fatty acids. Similar to jojoba oil, the ratio of hemp seed oil’s omega-fatty acids are likened to those created by human skin. Being a non-comedogenic oil, hemp is effective for most skin types as it helps to tend to any dermal irritation and keeps moisture locked in without clogging pores, which makes it ideal for combating acne and even psoriasis. Hemp has played an important part in anti-aging skincare regimens for years due to its content of linoleic and oleic acids, both of which are instrumental in keeping the skin young, but are not naturally generated by the body.

Pomegranate Seed

Anti-aging, moisturizing and anti-inflammatory, pomegranate seed oil is also a very soothing oil with gentle toning effects. Full of polyphenols and antioxidants, this oil is praised for its ability to safeguard the skin against free radical and UV damage. Even extracts formulated from the pith and rind boast an impressive amount of punicalagin – an antioxidant that aids in encouraging the production of collagen while having a calming effect on the skin. Not only this, but pomegranate seed oil is also rich in punicic acid – a bioactive compound that has been reported to show anticarcinogenic potential and aids in rejuvenating the skin, boosting its overall health. It is said to help decrease the rate of collagen breakdown, thus contributing to slowing the aging process of the skin. Rich in vitamin E, pomegranate seed oil is highly nourishing and has been found to enhance dermal elasticity. A non-comedogenic oil, pomegranate seed oil is ideal for most skin types from oily to dry as it helps to moisturize the skin without clogging pores and therefore causing breakouts.

Broccoli Seed

Bursting onto the beauty scene, broccoli seed oil is an unexpected anti-aging gem. A good source of vitamins A, C and omega-fatty acids, this oil helps to not only safeguard the skin against environmental stressors by creating a natural protective barrier over its surface, but it is also great at calming and nourishing it as well. Pollutants are one of the main causes of issues like premature dermal aging, irritation and blemishes, and broccoli seed oil is reported to help combat and counteract them. Rich in fatty acids like omega-3 and omega-9, this veggie oil is great at targeting skin that requires a hydration boost or is suffering from sensitivity. Able to help improve the durability of skin, broccoli oil contains linoleic acid which actively contributes to increased ceramide synthesis – a process that goes towards protecting the skin and locking in moisture, thus promoting a more youthful, plumper appearance.

Pistachio

Pistachio might be, for some, a surprising addition to their anti-aging skincare routine. With a high content of antioxidants, biotin and vitamin E, pistachio oil is great for the skin when it comes to boosting dermal youth. This is because such properties actively aid in fighting age-related lines and wrinkles. Vitamin E promotes dermal elasticity, helps to reduce lines and wrinkles, improves the complexion and goes towards preventing clogged pores as well as inhibiting free radical damage. As such, pistachio oil is very useful when used in skincare, more so as the antioxidants it contains are actually more potent when applied topically to the skin, as averse to ingesting whole pistachio nuts orally. Albeit effective on most skin types, it’s worth noting that despite being advocated as a more natural approach to treating acne-prone skin, it should be used with caution due to its high oleic acid content.

Date

Abundant in nutrients, exotic date seed oil is brimming with antioxidants that aid in curbing oxidative stress as well as damage from free radicals, especially UV-B radiation. Due to said antioxidants, it is also proclaimed to boost the skin’s repair response. With a very high content of both omega-6 and omega-9, date seed oil has been revealed to be helpful in revitalizing the skin and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Its antifungal and antimicrobial properties contribute to actively warding off and relieving acne, rashes and even sunburn. Despite this, because date oil is high in oleic acid, it is recommended to use it it mindfully if you’re prone to breakouts.

Pecan

With vitamins A, E and ellagic acid in its natural arsenal, pecan oil is a force for good when it comes to facial oils. Such properties combine to help reduce damage from free radicals and therefore help to inhibit signs of dermal aging like premature lines and wrinkles. Pecan oil is beloved for its moisturizing properties. With a high concentration of oleic acid (just over 70%, to be precise), this nut oil is a great go-to to help rejuvenate dry and mature skin. In addition to this, pecan oil is a good source of zinc which, combined with the vitamins mentioned above, works to help combat infection and promote a healthy complexion. Its magnesium content is also very rewarding as it is said to aid in alleviating any dermal inflammation.

Peanut

Highly emollient, peanut oil is a good oil to invest in when looking to improve the texture of your skin. Its analgesic and anti-inflammatory qualities aid in relieving redness, dryness and other such dermal irritation. Its vitamin E content is effective against free radical damage as well as being able to boost skin radiance and overall health. It should be used sparingly on acne-prone skin, however, due to its high oleic acid content. The antioxidants in peanut oil are effective for mature skin since, in conjunction with its moisturizing effects, it may help to reduce fine lines and wrinkles. One such antioxidant is resveratrol which is commonly found in grapes, and is known to fight DNA and UV damage.

Walnut

Walnut oil has many upsides when it comes to caring for the skin and hair. Antifungal and anti-inflammatory, this oil is known for helping to give some TLC to skin conditions like psoriasis as well as dry patches and even fungal infections. Because of its non-greasy texture, it’s fairly easily absorbed into the skin and, as such, is able to be applied to most skin types without adverse effects. An anti-aging oil, walnut has been said to aid in the reduction of wrinkles and fine lines. Just a single tablespoon of it is said to contain approximately five times more than the DRI of alpha-linoleic acid, an omega-3 fatty acid that is integral in helping to support dermal structure. As such, omega-3s are known for their ability to quell inflammation, encourage dermal healing and also skin growth.