Key Points
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Although you can't stop the march of time or the impact of genetics, you're not powerless to stop their effects on the health and look of your skin.
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If you're ready to do something about the effects of time, the environment, genetics, and diet on your skin, try natural facial oils.
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These seven potent facial oils are rich in nutrients and antioxidants that replenish and nourish skin in numerous ways.
Change is an inevitable part of life, and that includes your skin. As you age, your skin loses natural oils. It becomes dry and more prone to wrinkles as a result. Facial oils play a vital role in replenishing and nourishing skin.
The seven oils discussed in this article are rich in nutrients and antioxidants. They combat aging, keeping your skin looking young and healthy.
Argan Oil
Argan oil comes from the kernels of the argan tree native to Algeria and Morocco. This oil has an impressive fatty profile comprised of oleic, linoleic, palmitic, and stearic acids. It also contains a large amount of vitamin E.
Vitamin E (tocopherol) is a potent antioxidant. It protects the skin from oxidative stress caused by environmental factors, such as pollution and UV radiation. Vitamin E also assists in cell regeneration, promoting a fresh, youthful appearance.
The powerful antioxidants in argan oil neutralize free radicals created when oxygen interacts with living tissue. Free radicals damage the skin's collagen and elastin fibers, leading to wrinkles and sagging. Use argan oil consistently to protect your skin's natural firmness and elasticity.
Argan oil has an abundant fatty acids profile, particularly oleic and linoleic acids. These ingredients play a crucial role in nourishing your skin, locking in moisture, and preventing dryness. As a result, argan oil helps maintain a healthy, hydrated complexion.
Jojoba Oil
Jojoba oil comes from the innards of the seed of the jojoba shrub native to southern Arizona, southern California, and northwestern Mexico. Jojoba oil isn't processed into a liquid but is extracted directly from the seed as an oil.
Jojoba oil is structurally similar to human sebum — oil your skin naturally produces. Due to this similarity, your skin readily absorbs jojoba oil without leaving a greasy residue. If you're looking for lightweight hydration, jojoba oil is a powerful choice.
Jojoba oil has natural anti-inflammatory properties, highly effective at reducing and relieving redness and irritation. If your skin is sensitive or acne-prone skin, jojoba oil is definitely worth a try, as it's well known for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.
If used correctly, jojoba oil helps your skin regulate oil production. Because it mimics the skin's natural sebum, jojoba oil signals your body to produce less oil. This is a godsend if you have oily or combination skin, as it effectively reduces excess sebum without drying the skin.
The director of Cleveland Clinic's Dermatology Residency program, Dr. Alok Vij, enthusiastically recommends jojoba oil for its numerous skincare benefits. He explains that its vitamin and mineral profile and balance of fatty acids make it extremely versatile and beneficial. Plus, it's gentle on skin, with a low probability of allergic reaction:
Vij says, "Overall, there's a very low risk of allergies. The reports of allergies when using jojoba oil are very uncommon. And so overall, it's pretty safe."
Marula Oil
Marula oil comes from the kernel of the fruit of the marula tree. This hardy tree grows natively in the southern, western, and eastern regions of Africa and Madagascar. Like argan oil, marula has a high fatty acid profile.
Marula oil is rich in omega-3, omega-6, and omega-9. These fatty acids are vital for maintaining skin hydration. By applying marula oil regularly, you effectively combat dryness and alleviate the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
This nourishing oil is rich in antioxidants, such as vitamins C and E, which protect the skin from harmful environmental stressors. Regularly applying marula oil shields your complexion from the damaging effects of pollution, UV exposure, and other external factors.
Marula oil is gentle enough for all skin types, including sensitive, oily, and acne-prone skin. Its high absorption allows it to penetrate deeply without clogging pores or causing breakouts. With marula oil, nearly everyone can experience rejuvenated skin.
Rosehip Seed Oil
Rosehip seed oil comes from the rose bush Rosa rubiginosa seeds, which grow in the wilds of the Andes Mountains of South America. Another oil with an impressive ratio of healthy fatty acids, it also contains a significant amount of vitamins A and E.
There's a common misconception that rosehip seed oil is high in vitamin C. However, it contains none of the collagen-stimulating powerhouse. While the fruit of the Rosa rubiginosa bush is quite high in vitamin C, the seed portion — from which the oil is derived — is not.
The vitamin A, E, and essential fatty acids content of rosehip oil contribute to its impressive anti-aging properties. Incorporating rosehip seed oil into your skincare routine minimizes the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots. The result? A more youthful appearance.
Rosehip seed oil's essential fatty acid profile includes linoleic acid (omega-6) and α-linolenic acid (omega-3), which nourish and repair the skin barrier. Using rosehip seed oil consistently improves skin texture, tone, and overall health, revealing a smooth, glowing complexion.
Sea Buckthorn Oil
Sea buckthorn oil comes from the seeds and pulp of the sea buckthorn shrub. This plant grows natively in western Europe, Mongolia, and parts of China and Pakistan. Sea buckthorn oil contains beneficial fatty acids, vitamin E, and other potent antioxidants.
This oil's vibrant orange color sets it apart and has powerful soothing and healing properties. With its impressive nutrient profile, sea buckthorn oil benefits individuals suffering from skin conditions such as eczema, rosacea, or extreme dryness.
Sea buckthorn oil is one of the few natural sources of omega-7 fatty acids essential for maintaining healthy skin. Omega-7 promotes cellular regeneration and aids in skin repair, making sea buckthorn oil an excellent choice for those seeking to combat the signs of aging.
This nutrient-rich oil also contains anti-inflammatory properties that soothe red, irritated skin. Use sea buckthorn oil to calm inflammation, reduce redness, and promote a refreshed, balanced complexion.
Squalane Oil
The word squalane comes from the term Squalus, the scientific genus of sharks. At one time, most squalane oil was derived from shark liver oil. Interestingly, most plant species and fungi naturally produce squalane oil as part of normal metabolic processes. People, and even some bacteria, produce it too.
Most squalane oil in 2023 is derived from plants like sugarcane and olives. This oil is incredibly stable and resistant to oxidation, making it ideal for those seeking a skin-repairing facial oil with a long shelf life. Squalane oil promotes healthy cell turnover and regeneration, making your skin look more supple and youthful.
The skin quickly absorbs this lightweight oil, providing hydration without leaving a greasy residue. Squalane oil is perfect for those who prefer quick-absorbing facial oils, ensuring your skin feels soft and smooth after application.
Squalane oil has powerful anti-aging properties that boost skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. By incorporating squalane oil into your skincare routine, you effectively combat signs of aging and maintain a youthful, radiant complexion.
Tamanu Oil
Tamanu oil comes from the nuts of the evergreen tamanu nut tree, which grows in East Africa and Madagascar. This oil boasts an impressive antioxidant profile and has even been shown to blunt the effects of UV light. It also has antibacterial properties and is sometimes used for wound healing.
Tamanu oil's unique lipid profile allows it to penetrate deeply into all layers of your skin. This deep hydration is particularly beneficial for mature skin, as it replenishes lost moisture and fights signs of aging. Rich in anti-inflammatory properties, tamanu oil effectively calms skin irritation, redness, and inflammation. It's an excellent choice for sensitive or acne-prone skin, as it soothes the skin while promoting healing and regeneration.
Tamanu oil promotes collagen production, crucial for maintaining a plump, youthful complexion. Use tamanu oil to boost your skin's natural collagen production, resulting in a smoother, firmer, and rejuvenated appearance.
Good Enough for Jennifer Lopez…
Hollywood star and pop sensation Jennifer Lopez has access to every skincare product under the sun, and she uses many, too — likely even some on this list. In an August 2023 interview with Glamour magazine, however, 54-year-old Lopez said sunscreen is her number one skincare superpower.
"I've been wearing sunscreen everyday [sic] since I was in my very early 20s," Lopez says. Lopez reminds readers not only of the potent aging power of UV light but also of the importance of taking care every day to protect your skin from it.
Seven Oils, Seven Allies for Skin
The seven oils discussed here are powerful agents in the fight against aging skin. Used regularly, these oils help maintain a healthy, radiant complexion. They effectively nourish and rejuvenate your skin.
Although these oils are generally well tolerated by most skin types, it's best to experiment with them before going all in. Find a combination that suits your skin's unique needs, and enjoy the benefits of a healthier, more youthful complexion.
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