How To: Face Oils
- Georgia
- Nov 17
- 3 min read
Updated: Nov 17
Botanical oils offer a nourishing base for cleansing, moisturising, nourishing, and protecting our skin.
From improving hydration to acting as a barrier against environmental pollutants, oils can enhance the overall wellbeing and appearance of the skin.
Certain oils (depending on unique properties and fatty acid profile) can also help to regulate the skin's natural oil production, making them suitable for various skin types, including oily and acne-prone skin.
Additionally, certain oils are rich in antioxidants and essential fatty acids, which can promote healing, reduce inflammation, slow signs of ageing and enhance vitality.
For optimal benefits and results, understanding when and how to apply oils is key, so lets dive in...
CLEANSE
Cleansing the face with botanicals oils is a great way to introduce oil into your routine.
All skin conditions, including oily, can benefit from oil cleansing because this method effectively melts away oil soluble properties of makeup, sunscreen and debris without disrupting the skins microbiome.
This method is especially beneficial for those with a damaged skin barrier.
How to cleanse with oil 1. Start by soaking a gentle face cloth (hemp/bamboo/cotton) in hot water, or lukewarm water for dry, dehydrated and/or sensitive skin 2. Take a generous amount of oil and massage it all over the face and neck, in small circular motions for a minute or so 3. Wring out the cloth, wait until it isn't too hot and press it against the face for a slight steaming effect 4. I like to repeat step 3 a few times as it feels really nice 5. Gently wipe away the oil *You can repeat the process if necessary e.g. removing heavy makeup *For very sensitive/dry skin, use an oil-to-milk cleanser (rinses off) instead as the wiping motion can be irritating overtime
*If your skin feels too greasy or not quite clean, follow with a gentle water based cleanser 6. Apply your finishing products (face mist, oil and balm)
MOISTURISE While oil has an abundance of skin benefits, it doesn't necessarily hydrate because it is an anhydrous (containing no water) substance.
Oil alone won't effectively hydrate the skin, unless the skin is already sufficiently hydrated beneath the surface, in which case oil can help to lock in and enhance that moisture.
This is why it is so important to always apply oil with a hydrating face mist.
How to moisturise with oil 1. After cleansing, apply a generous amount of face mist 2. Place 5-10 drops of oil and 1-2 more sprays of face mist in the palm of your hand 3. Using your finger, stir the two together until the texture changes slightly
4. Massage all over the face and neck (which ideally will still be damp from the misting) just like a moisturiser
5. For enhanced protection, apply are few for drops of oil on top of your moisturiser
MASSAGE
Touch therapy has so much potential in the realms skincare and beauty.
Intentional massage stimulates the flow of fluid and energy; revitalising, cleansing and lifting our tissues.
Practised with care and presence, it can also be deeply calming for the nervous system.
As you have probably experienced already, there is no better medium for massage than oil.
The physical act of touch encourages the nutrient-rich liquid to absorb even deeper into the the skin where it can work it's magic.
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