The battle between face oils and moisturisers has been an intense one. Both face oil and moisturisers tend to be the jack of all trades and masters of those trades too. So, is it worthwhile to pick sides, or should we just let science decide it for us?
Face oils and skin types
Face oils have a love-hate relationship with a few skin types. They might not adhere to a specific skin type because of a few already existing skin conditions like accumulation of face oils, greasy skin and irritating texture. But for normal skin types, face oils make way for new cells to develop and boost collagen, reduce blemishes and promise a glazed doughnut complexion.
Here is a glimpse of different skin types and their reaction to the application and impact of face oils:
1. For dry skin
Hydration and nourishment are the two best pals it needs. This is when a formula like The Face Shop Mango Seed Radiant Moisturizing Oil comes to the rescue. The lightweight texture of this oil absorbs easily into the skin without leaving a greasy residue. It helps to nourish and moisturise the skin, making it look plump and healthy.
2. For balanced or combination skin
You could look for a face oil that ensures skin elasticity and hydration without any finishing greasiness. This is when a formulation like the Farmacy Beauty Honey Grail Ultra-Hydrating Face Oil comes into the picture. This face oil is enriched with a combination of natural oils, including honey, to hydrate and nourish the skin deeply. It is suitable for all skin types, including dry, combination, and sensitive skin. The lightweight formula absorbs quickly into the skin, providing long-lasting hydration while providing antioxidant benefits.
3. For sensitive skin
We have got a face oil for you that is kind, gentle and unbiased to all skin conditions. The Aminu The Galencial Nourishing Sleep Oil is designed to be used as a nourishing overnight treatment. It contains a blend of natural oils that provide intense hydration and replenishment to the skin. It is suitable for all skin types, including dry, sensitive, and mature skin. The oil has a luxurious texture that absorbs well into the skin, leaving it soft and supple. It helps to restore the skin's natural moisture barrier and promotes a healthy complexion.
4. Facial moisturisers
Despite face oils being a recent trend in the skincare industry, there are a few of us who would still prefer to continue our loyalty towards moisturiser. Irrespective of having a 7-step skincare regime, everybody accounts to have one moisturiser they use to help look more radiant, youthful and keep their skin hydrate.
Face moisturisers for different skin types
1. For sensitive skin
Looking for a moisturiser that is lightweight and non-greasy is advisable. A formula like the Simple Kind To Skin Replenishing Rich Moisturizer is a face moisturiser that is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. It is designed to provide deep hydration and replenishment to the skin. The formula is lightweight and non-greasy, making it suitable for daily use. It contains skin-loving ingredients that help nourish and moisturise the skin without causing irritation. However, if you have extremely oily skin, you may find this moisturiser a bit too rich and may prefer a lighter formula.
2. For oily to dry to combination skin
A formulation like the Dermalogica Skin Smoothing Cream Face Moisturizer is a versatile moisturiser that suits most. It provides long-lasting hydration while helping to improve the skin's texture and smoothness. The formula is lightweight and absorbs easily into the skin without leaving a greasy residue. It contains a blend of botanical extracts that help soothe and nourish the skin. Again, if you experience oily or acne-prone skin, you may find this moisturiser too rich and may prefer a lighter, oil-free option
What should you use?
Ultimately, the choice between a face oil and a face cream depends on what your skin needs and your personal preferences. Some of us prefer the lightweight and fast-absorbing nature of face oils, while others prefer the texture and added benefits of face creams. While face oils promise the added benefit of customisation, moisture lock and skin barrier protection, moisturisers, on the other hand, offer SPF protection, absorption and texture repair. It's also possible to incorporate both into your skincare routine by using face oil as a pre-moisturiser step or mixing a few drops of oil into your moisturiser for added nourishment. The grass here is greener on either of the sides.