When Oil Is Actually Good For Your Skin

We’re taught from early on that oil is no friend of the skin. Oil is associated with acne, excess shine or a greasy appearance, but there are some oils that are actually extremely beneficial to the skin.

These oils are not your average oils though. They are refined to hydrate and deliver nutrients straight to the skin. They’re also known as carriers, so they help carry other healthy ingredients deep into the skin, while also protecting the barrier. But not all oils are created equal (don’t expect results from everyday cooking oils). Below are a few to be on the lookout for.

WHAT THEY ARE AND HOW THEY WORK

Skin-healthy oils are like food for the skin. They are refined, non-greasy, non-comedogenic, easily absorbed into the skin, and sustainable. These refined oils have been used throughout history in medical practices, and in skin care to treat aging, scarring, and acne, among other skin conditions.

The natural molecular composition of exotic oils enable them to be easily absorbed by the skin, carrying anti-fungal, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties from plants, fruits and vegetables to the skin. Some include:

• Grape seed oil (vitis vinifera) – a great source of flavonoids, which protect capillary walls and strengthen collagen and elastin (our skin’s elasticity). It’s also been shown to accelerate new tissue growth and cell renewal.
• Orange oil (citrus aurantium dulcis) – rich in vitamins A and C, and flavonoids, orange oil is known for its antioxidants and antibacterial properties. It also works great as an antiseptic for blemished skin.
• Hemlock oil (Tsunga Canadensis) – from a tree native to eastern North America, hemlock provides antimicrobial, antiseptic and astringent benefits, making it ideal of acne-challenged skin.
• Clove leaf oil (Eugenia Caryophyllus) – from the clove tree, an evergreen, the oil is used in skin care for its antioxidant, antiseptic, and stimulating benefits.
• Cinnamon cassia leaf oil – also from an evergreen tree, this one native to southern China, Bangladesh, India, and Vietnam, it is used in skin care for antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. It also smells amazing, and stimulates the senses.

These oils can be found in certain shave oils, massage oils and moisturizers to provide nutrients and hydration, reduce inflammation, and plump skin tissues, while helping other active, and healthy ingredients penetrate the skin. These properties are great in shave oils for helping to prevent irritations and razor burn, and keep skin hydrated.

For more about exotic oils, see the RA for Men Shave Oil and Shave Gel.