Why you should consider a facial oil

Facial oils can be a polarizing topic in the skincare community. Many dermatologists will tell you to steer clear if you have oily skin or if you are breakout-prone. Others swear by them. Some love them, while others can't stand the feel of them on the skin.

The thing is, the needs of our skin vary greatly, and as always, your mileage might vary (YMMV). But facial oils aren't solely reserved for the dry-skinned among us. Our Amy can attest to that. Even though she has combination skin, she uses all three of Ishtar's oils in her rotation.

What are the benefits of facial oils? What do they do? Who can use them, and how?

Facial oils can be a single ingredient formula or a mixture of different plant oils. Their primary benefit is they moisturised the skin and lock in the moisture (prevent it from evaporating). They are also one of the fastest ways to achieve that elusive glow and dewiness. Seeds, stems, and flowers of plants are the primary source of oils, and many are rich in antioxidants and bioactives. Furthermore, many have anti-inflammatory properties and can be soothing for irritated skin.

Certain types of oils can help restore and protect the moisture barrier. As we know by now, anything that protects our moisture barrier is a good thing, regardless of our skin type. Facial oils are suited for dry and dehydrated skin year-round. But, they are useful in the colder months when the indoor heating and cold air suck the moisture out of the skin. Likewise, as we get older, our skin can produce less oil leaving our skin dry. Facial oils are a suitable choice for more mature skin types.

Breakout-prone skin can also enjoy a facial oil. The right oil regulates sebum production, can speed up the healing process, and ease inflammation. However, be mindful of which oils you choose. And if you never used a facial oil in your routine, make sure to patch test first.

Can facial oils replace other heavy-hitting products in your routine like retinol, ceramides, or antioxidant serums? That would be no. But, they can be a great addition to an already existing routine.

How to use facial oils?

You can use a facial oil on its own or as one of the layering steps in your routine. Some use the oil as the last step (after their moisturiser). I prefer oil and then moisturiser as the last step (but my skin is currently dry as the Sahara desert). A few drops mixed with your regular moisturiser also works.

One thing you shouldn't do is mix your facial oil with sunscreen. That is a big no, as it will dilute it and make it ineffective.

Ishtar's facial oils

ProRepair facial oil

What's in it?

ProRepair combines 5% Ascorbyl Teraisopalmitate (also known as Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate) with 2% Tocoretinate-10. Ascorbyl Teraisopalmitate is a stable ester of vitamin C. It is effective at lower percentages and is very gentle and non-irritating for the skin. Tocoretinate-10 is a retinoic acid ester. The molecule combines vitamin A with vitamin E and gives the benefits of retinoic acid without being irritating. Vitamin E increases the activity of vitamin C by 400%. Likewise, when combined, vitamin A and vitamin C have fantastic benefits for the skin.

Tomato Seed oil is rich in antioxidants and fatty acids and promotes suppleness of the skin. Meanwhile, Squalane, with its skin-identical lipid structure, is suitable for all skin types.

What does it do?

ProRepair facial oil targets all signs of aging, fades post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and can aid in scar recovery.

Who is it for?

Because of its unique combination of ingredients, ProRepair facial oil is suitable for all skin types (even sensitive and breakout-prone).

Sebupore Exfoliant facial oil

What's in it?

The main ingredient in Sebupore Exfoliant facial oil is Lipohydroxy acid. It is an ester of Salicylic acid. It has all the benefits of Salicylic acid while being calming on the skin. Green Cold Pressed Coffee oil is rich in antioxidants and skin-friendly bioactives, while Saw Palmetto extract helps regulate the sebum production.

What does it do?

Sebupore Exfoliant facial oil gently exfoliates the skin and clears congestion in the pores. Over time, it improves the skin texture, fades hyperpigmentation, and minimises the appearance of fine lines.

Who is it for?

Sebupore Exfoliant facial oil is best suited for oily and combination skin prone to congestion.

Hydrocharge facial oil

What's in it? Hydrocharge facial oil combines organic White Tea extract with Anhydrous Hyaluronic Acid Liposomes with Tripeptide-29. Organic White Tea extract has high levels of catechins, a type of antioxidant. These inhibit MMP, enzymes responsible for the degradation of collagen and elastin. Anhydrous Hyaluronic Acid Liposomes with Tripeptide-29 serve a dual purpose. Hyaluronic acid hydrates and plumps up the skin. Likewise, it triggers a chain reaction that eases inflammation and boosts collagen synthesis. Tripeptide 29 further aids this process. Microalgae extract in the formula protects the skin against the stress-related reactions to adrenaline and cortisol. A blend of oils nourishes the skin and helps strengthen the skin's barrier function. What does it do? Hydrocharge facial oil soothes and nourishes the skin while protecting it against stress-related damage. Stress-induced biochemical reactions can lead to inflammation, which, in turn, can lead to irritation and premature signs of aging. Who is it for? Dry and dehydrated skin will love Hydrocharge facial oil since it helps repair and protect the skin's barrier.