Facial oil is a cosmetic product that can be used on the face to promote healthy skin. While oil is often associated with excessively oily skin, acne, and other undesirable problems, using an oil-based skin care product can actually help to treat these problems, resulting in clean, clear skin. Although the trend toward facial oils is relatively recent in the United States, it is a time-tested practice that has been used around the world for centuries, as far back as ancient Egypt.
The skin on the face naturally produces its own oils. For some, these oils can clog pores and result in an undesirably oily complexion. A common answer to this problem is the use of an oil-free cleaner, which strips the skin of these oils. This type of treatment may work in the short term, but can cause additional problems later on. The skin may ultimately produce excess oil in response to this treatment to compensate for what’s been lost.
The use of a facial oil can help to naturally cleanse, moisturize, and soften skin. When applied correctly, it will not result in an oily complexion. The oil is used to remove dirt and other imperfections from the skin, and is then gently washed away.
Cosmetics companies produce a wide variety of facial oils, which can be used in place of or in addition to facial cleansers. When using a commercial facial oil, consumers should always follow the manufacturer’s directions. While facial oils are generally useful for all skin types, some may be geared more toward a specific age group or skin condition.
For a homemade facial oil, natural, cold-pressed vegetable oils can be combined to create a luxurious face product. Thicker oils such as castor oil must be diluted with the thinner oil varieties such as sunflower seed oil. When massaged into the face, these oils will work into the pores, drawing dirt out of the skin an onto the surface where it can be easily rinsed away. The oil also serves to moisturize and smooth the skin.
Facial oils are available for all types of consumers, but those with aging skin may benefit the most from this type of product. As individuals age, their facial skin does not produce its own natural oils as efficiently as it did when they were younger. An application of a cleansing facial oil can help to remedy this problem, resulting in more youthful looking skin.