We tend to hold very strong opinions about facial oils. Some of us use them passionately, virtually bathing in them morning and night, whilst others (often those with acne-prone skin) refuse to touch them with a 10-foot pole. Perhaps the greatest myth about facial oils is that they all clog the skin and lead to breakouts. Whilst this may be true for some, it isn’t true for all. On the contrary, the right oil can not only help calm the skin and reduce inflammation and flare-ups but they are packed with a swathe of other anti-ageing and ‘wow what have you done to your skin’ benefits too.
Why does our skin need oil?
Our skin lipid barrier is our defence mechanism against bacteria and viruses and is crucial for both protecting against damage and boosting moisture retention. If it’s not nourished, skin can become dry and brittle. More surprisingly, without sufficient oil balance, skin will compensate by producing more sebum resulting in breakouts and blemishes.
As with nutrition, exercise and alcohol consumption, balance is key.
So which facial oils should I be looking for?
The oil you chose is everything. You need to seek out a non-comedogenic oil. Translation: a facial oil that won’t clog pores and therefore won’t lead to unwanted skin eruptions. Oils to avoid are ones that suffocate the skin - these are more commonly the synthetic ones often derived from the petrochemical industry such as paraffin, mineral oil, liquid petroleum and baby oil to name a few.
At 35 Thousand we use oils that encourage skin to function optimally. We only use natural oils within our formulations which are easily recognized by the skin, won’t glue your pores, enable normal cellular turnover, and allow skin to breathe and help to keep it balanced and happy. These are our favourites.
Magic Marula
If there was an Oscars of the skincare world, Marula oil would get a standing ovation. Present in our Clever Cleansing Balm, the Refresh & Revive Mist and the Really Radiant Cream this natural wonder oil can beautify your skin today but also help defend it against the onslaught of tomorrow. With intense hydration boosting effects it also works as an occlusive layer, reducing any moisture loss and therefore leaving your skin immediately and noticeably plumper and more radiant than before.
Marula’s spectacular portfolio of skin benefits doesn’t end there - it is also high in antioxidant vitamins C and E which help to defend against ageing free radicals. Claire Bristow, Director of Product Development at 35 Thousand says “Perhaps the best thing about marula oils is its’ fatty acid profile which is very similar to the oils naturally found in skin which makes it highly bioavailable.” Plus Marula has been proven to inhibit enzymes that break down the elastins within the skin, meaning it constantly works to ward off the development of fine lines.
Clever Camellia Oil
We are also big fans of Camellia oil which we have used in our Clever Cleansing Balm and Really Radiant Cream. Like all of our ingredients, Camellia oil is also a queen of multitasking.
Firstly it has a molecular weight that is very close to the skin’s own sebum, resulting in rapid and deeper absorption, which makes it a fantastic choice for blemish-prone skin. Secondly, with over 98% long-chain fatty acids which are vital to help combat signs of ageing and dark spots, Camelia oil can also aid in the production of collagen. Thirdly, Camelia oil has fantastic anti-inflammatory qualities combined with a very mild astringent profile, meaning that it not only helps to keep skin clear and blemish-free but it also does so without irritation. Genius.
Superstar Squalane
Squalane has become somewhat of a skincare superstar in recent years for good reason. Used in both our Clever Cleansing Balm and the Really Radiant Cream, it has steadily grown in popularity as a protective powerhouse. Claire explains why, “It can help to neutralise damage caused by UV light and it has natural antioxidant properties to help protect skin and fight pigmentation. It is also an incredible natural emollient that locks moisture into the skin despite its incredibly light texture.” Its ability to hydrate without clogging or blocking pores also makes it ideal for spot-prone complexions. Add to that the fact that it is proven to scientifically strengthen the skin barrier, without oiliness or surface residue and we think we’ve found skin primer perfection.
Crazy for Castor Oil
No newcomer to the world of beauty, Castor oil has been used medically and cosmetically for thousands of years. Taken from castor beans, Castor oil naturally hydrates the skin without blocking pores which is why we are trialling it in some new products in development. It is also rich in ricinoleic acid, a chemical compound that has been shown in early studies to have the potential in reversing hair loss. Whilst the jury is still out on whether it can promote hair growth, it is a fantastic nourishing ingredient for glowing skin and a great conditioner for eyebrows and lashes.
If you liked reading about facial oils then you will love our ingredients page.
Read more about founder of 35 Thousand Misty Reich here