ISSUE 01 | Can facial oils be hydrating?
If a facial oil has absolutely zero water in it, we ask the question - Can facial oils be hydrating?
What are Facial Oils?
Before diving into their hydrating abilities, it's important to understand what facial oils are. Facial oils are concentrated blends of natural oils that are specifically formulated for use on the face. These oils are rich in essential fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins, which offer various benefits for the skin.
Do Facial Oils Hydrate the Skin?
Facial oils do have hydrating supporting properties. While they may not provide the same level of hydration as a moisturiser or direct water-to-the-skin, they can still play a vital role in maintaining the skin's moisture balance. Facial oils create a protective barrier on the skin, preventing trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL) and keeping the skin hydrated throughout the day.
Choosing the Right Facial Oil
Not all facial oils are created equal when it comes to supporting your moisture barrier and retaining in hydration. It's essential to choose the right oil for your skin type and concerns. For dry or dehydrated skin, opt for oils that are rich in nourishing ingredients like jojoba oil, argan oil, or rosehip oil. These oils have excellent properties and can replenish moisture in the skin.
Enhancing Hydration with a Moisturiser
While we've discussed that facial oils can provide support for the moisture barrier, they do not provide direct hydration (water or water binding agents) to the skin - thus they work best when combined with a hydrating serum or moisturiser. Moisturisers contain water-binding ingredients that help lock in moisture and provide long-lasting hydration. Before applying your facial oil, restore the deeper layers of your skin with a serum or moisturiser and seal in the hydration with your facial oil to keep your skin plump and supple.
The Verdict
Facial oils can indeed support hydration for the skin, and are essential in doing so, however they have zero water properties or water-binding agents that offer hydration to the skin. It's a real balancing act, but one doesn't work without the other, water requires oil to create a seal, like a lid on a container to stop your skin from dehydrating. And your skin needs both the water and oil to create supple, balanced skin. It's important to choose the right facial oil for your skin type and use it in conjunction with a hydrating serum or moisturiser for a healthy balance.
