Facial oils for flawless skin

Despite the many benefits of face oils, plenty of women are intimidated and hesitant about applying them to their skin. 

But did you know applying a few drops of these formulations, daily on your skin, will not just hydrate and revitalise your skin, their specific healing properties will also help combat all your skin problems? They are incredibly effective at treating a wide range of skin conditions: from hyperpigmentation and stretch marks to acne. Some oils like rose and lavender are also mood elevators, that help in relaxation. Here's a list of a few popular varieties of oils to get you acquainted: 

TEA TREE OIL 

Gets rid of acne: 

This oil is one of the best natural alternatives to get rid of acne, as it has disinfecting and soothing properties. Unlike other acne treatments, tea tree oil will not strip your skin of its natural oils or cause further breakouts, as it is gentler. 

BLACKCURRANT SEED OIL 

Aids in skin repair: 

If you've had a laser treatment done or have damaged skin, opt for blackcurrant seed oil. It is reparative because it's rich in fatty acids and has anti-inflammatory properties. It contains a high percentage of Omegas 3 and 6, which help repair tissue damage, healing scars. Apart from being a suitable oil for dry and damaged skin, its regular use also reduces premature wrinkle formation. 

GRAPESEED OIL 

Helpful for oily skin: 

If you have oily skin, and have to reach for the tissue to wipe off excess oil from your skin, try using grapeseed oil, which is derived from the seeds of grapes. It helps regulate your natural oil production. Packed with antioxidants, including skin-brightening vitamin C, grapeseed oil is also considered very allergy-resistant in the family of oils. 

ARGAN OIL

Combats aging: 

Often called liquid gold, this rare and expensive Moroccan oil, contains high levels of vitamin E, fatty acids and antioxidants that rid the body of free radicals and helps with anti-aging. It reduces wrinkles by restoring the skin's hydro-lipid layer. It also restores elasticity and leaves the skin feeling plumper and softer Since it absorbs easily and is nongreasy, it is a natural moisturiser. Apart from giving you younger-looking skin, argan is useful against ailments like chickenpox, psoriasis, eczema and stretch marks! 

MARULA OIL 

Multifunctional:

Marula oil, commonly known as Africa's 'miracle oil' has been the beauty staple amongst African women for centuries. It has a high concentration of oleic acid — an essential fatty acid that our bodies produce naturally — so it gets absorbed into the skin very quickly. This helps maintain the skin's moisture content, providing long-lasting hydration and protection against pollution. If you stay outdoors for long periods and have dull skin, this is an ideal oil for you. It also has anti-aging properties. 

CHAMOMILE OIL 

Reduces redness in sensitive skin Just like chamomile tea has a calming effect on your mind and body, chamomile oil soothes your skin! If you have extremely sensitive skin that is prone to redness and irritation, this is the oil for you. It has anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, antibiotic, disinfectant, bactericidal and vermifuge properties that will do wonders for your skin! 

HOW TO APPLY 

The amount of oil you use and the method of application is almost as important as the formula itself. If applied correctly, facial oils penetrate quickly and deeply into the skin, leaving a smooth finish.

Apply the oil after the skin has been freshly cleansed. Dampen your face with water or spritz some moisture mist on it. 

Take two-three drops of the oil on your four fingertips, rub them lightly together and dab the oil on your cheeks, forehead and chin. Don't rub the oil on your skin, just massage it gently. 

If you want to use a sunscreen, apply the oil first, wait for three minutes and then apply your sunscreen or regular make-up.

Another way to use the oil is to mix it with your regular foundation cream and apply. 

Inputs by dermatologists Dr Apratim Goel and Dr. Swati Srivastava