The Best Oils for Skin Care

Using oils on the face and body has many amazing benefits. They are natural, full of pure nutrients, easily absorbed into the skin and promote health and optimal skin condition. However, not all oils are compatible with every skin type. Anyone with combination skin, acne-prone skin or other skin issues need to ensure the oils are non-comedogenic.

The comedogenic rating scale has been around since the 70s and its purpose is to identify which oils are likely to clog pores and which are not. The scale rates from 0-5 and should be used by anyone who is introducing a new oil or butter to their skin.

Comedogenic Rating Scale

0 – Does not clog pores

1 – Slight chance

2 – Fine for the majority

3 – 50/50 chance of a breakout

4 – Majority will breakout

5 – Pretty much guaranteed to breakout

This rating matters a lot since you are trying to care for the skin, repair it and give it nutrients. The last thing you need is an insane breakout all over your face or body. I know about this personally when I slathered myself with coconut for a few days and had the most insane forehead breakout that took months to heal. I am now left with a forehead that easily breaks out when it never did prior to using coconut oil.

Oils to Avoid or Test First

Date seed oil (Rated 3)

Moringa oil (Rated 3-4)

Coconut oil (Rated 4)

Coconut butter (Rated 4)

Cocoa butter (Rated 4)

Flaxseed oil/ linseed oil (Rated 4)

Palm oil (Rated 4)

Soybean oil (Rated 4-5)

Wheat germ oil (Rated 5)

Being aware of your skin type is crucial. You should pay attention to whether or not your skin gets oily during the day and which areas. Also, hydration levels of the skin and any problem areas or prevention measures. If you have combination skin or oily skin then you definitely want to avoid oils that are rated at a 3 or higher. If you have normal skin then test higher rated oils first for a few days before committing to putting it on your face.

Certain factors determine the exact type of nutrients your skin personally needs but the basics are a starting point for everyone. Properly nourished skin is easy to detect. It will be supple, hydrated, mostly free from outbreaks, radiant, and youthful. No matter the age of skin, it can certainly retain a youthful glow with less intense lines and wrinkles.

The most beneficial vitamins for healthy skin are:

Vitamin A

Rejuvenates cells that improve overall skin texture and tone. It enhances collagen production, reduces wrinkles and repairs dry skin.

Vitamin C

An antioxidant which reduces damage from environmental exposure such as the sun or dry climate. It prevents and repairs UV damage, reduces brown spots and increases collagen production.

Vitamin E

A vital nutrient that protects the skin barrier and also slows the signs of aging. Vitamin E also reduces scarring and is a mild SPF.

Vitamin K

Reduces stretch marks, spider veins, and aids in rapid skin healing from injuries. This vitamin also soothes redness and reduces dark under-eye circles.

Vitamin F

This vitamin is made up of several types of omegas that strengthen the skin’s natural barrier. The skin’s barrier is the first line in defense for healthy skin.

Biotin

Biotin is actually a B vitamin essential for skin, hair and nail health. A deficiency in this vitamin leads to skin problems such as redness, rashes, and dryness.

Zinc

This vitamin protects the skin’s barrier from environmental damage. It also supports skin cell growth and collagen production. Additionally, zinc is anti-inflammatory which helps heal and soothe acne scars.

Most nutrients needed for healthy skin can be found in foods such as leafy greens, nuts, vegetables, and whole-grains. However, it is hard to determine exactly how much you are getting from a proper diet and how pure food sources are. Another way to properly nourish the skin is to take a multi-vitamin. Not all vitamins are exactly as promised so read labels and do some research about specific vitamin companies. Make sure that the vitamins are free from excessive ingredients and organic if possible.

Hot Tip : Apply oils to face or body when the skin is slightly damp. This will help oils absorb faster and more evenly.

Applying nutrient-dense oils directly to the skin is a wonderful way to hydrate and feed the skin. It the most accurate way to ensure that you are getting the vitamins your skin needs. Oils can be applied at any time during the day but the best time is at night. When oils are applied to the skin at night they can fully sink in and be absorbed when the skin is most actively regenerating. Also, if oils are not fully absorbed before going outside then you are likely to attract dust and other air particles onto your face.

So, Which Oils Are The Best?

Firstly, choose an oil that is affordable and one that you can keep in the house. One that you can either find at a local store or online. Secondly, choose one that

Hemp seed oil (Rated 0)