The skin is one of the most important organs in the body. It’s responsible for preventing water loss, stopping bacteria from entering the body, regulating body temperature and storing fat and water. Many times, the skin works in perfect harmony and handles these duties simultaneously. Other times, it needs assistance to replenish what is lost. This is where skin care comes into play. While some view cosmetics as primarily a means to enhance appearance, they also serve a functional purpose. Natural oils, such as coconut oil, shea butter oil, and olive oil, have been used for skin care and hair care for centuries. Generation after generation have touted them for various moisturizing, protective, and antibacterial qualities. With the growth of the modern cosmetic and wellness industries, these deceptively simple substances have often been overlooked, but they’ve had a bit of a resurgence in the public eye over the last decade, as people strive to find additive-free, affordable, and effective products.
When researching these various oils, you’ll see words like linoleic acid and oleic acid. These are the main two types of fatty acids in oils. Oils high in linoleic acid tend to be less comedogenic, meaning they’re less likely to clog pores. Oils high in oleic acid tend to be more comedogenic, meaning they’re more likely to clog pores, especially for people with oily skin types.
Argan oil. Argan oil has anti-sebum effects, which can effectively regulate amounts of sebum on the skin. This can help to treat several different types of acne and promote a smoother, calmer complexion. Apply argan oil — or face creams containing argan oil — directly to your skin at least twice a day.
Avocado oil. Avocado oil contains a high percentage of Vitamin E, as well as potassium, lecithin, and many other nutrients which can nourish and moisturize your skin. The oleic acid also promotes collagen production, which helps grow new skin. This accelerates the healing process, helping with issues like sunburn.
Chamomile Oil. Chamomile oil contains a high percentage of good oleic acid and a low ratio of linoleic acid. This makes it a light oil that allows the skin to breathe if applied topically. It also helps unclog pores, prevents breakouts, and premature signs of ageing.
Jojoba oil. Jojoba oil contains natural forms of vitamin E. This vitamin works with your skin as an antioxidant. This means that jojoba oil can help your skin fight oxidative stress caused by everyday exposure to pollutants and other toxins. Jojoba oil is high in wax esters, which help prevent water loss.
Marula oil. Marula oil is high in antioxidants, essential fatty acids, and amino acids. It's widely used as an ingredient in skin care products, and appears to be beneficial for oily, acne-prone, dry, and aging skin. It's also effective at keeping hair soft, supple, and moisturized. ... Essential fatty acids and skin health.
Olive oil. Olive oil is rich in vitamins and antioxidants, and has been linked to improved skin moisturization, anti-aging effects, and relief from sun damage. Olive oil can be used on the skin on its own or as part of skincare products such as facial cleansers or lotions.
Peppermint oil. Peppermint oil naturally cleanses the skin and has antiseptic and antibacterial properties. It has a cooling effect which soothes irritation and inflammation due to acne.
Rosehip oil. Rosehip oil is rich in essential fatty acids and antioxidants, which are integral for tissue and cell regeneration in the skin. It's no wonder that the oil has long been used as a folk remedy for wound healing, as well as the reduction of scars and fine lines.
Shea Butter. The concentration of natural vitamins and fatty acids in shea butter helps moisturize and nourish the skin. Its high fat content makes it an excellent natural emollient and humectant, locking in moisture and keeping skin hydrated. It ensures that the skin's natural oils are preserved. This means good and smooth skin.
Tea tree oil. Tea tree oil is a popular choice for treating acne because of its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. It's thought to calm redness, swelling, and inflammation. It may even help to prevent and reduce acne scars, leaving you with smooth, clear skin.