A special topic is dedicated to oils. These are cold-pressed facial oils. Their purpose is different because each of them has its own specific ingredients that affect the facial skin in one way or another.
What exactly is an essential oil?
Simply put, oil is a liquid extracted from the seeds, nuts, or fruits of certain plants. From skin to hair and even mental well-being, there’s one to help support almost any condition!
Why do I like cold-pressed oils?
First and foremost is their peculiarity, that is, their character, which is expressed in their purity. There are no additives, no chemistry in them. Mineral oils do not have a natural origin, that is, they are not obtained by cold pressing from plants, but mineral oils are derivatives of the same oil from which gasoline is made. Therefore, that oil should not be on our beauty shelf.
Oils are different and each one has its own character. I will mention in the text various oils that I had the opportunity to use and their effect.
What I think is important to state is that oils do not replace creams and serums. Oils do not go into the deeper layers of the skin but remain on the surface.
So, if you want to nourish your skin, first treat it with a specific cream or serum and then apply oil.
There are three important groups that actively participate in skin protection: moisturizers, lubricants, and moisture enhancers.
Humectants are actually ingredients that provide moisture to the skin. They attract water to the epidermis and increase its level in the surface layers of the skin (and when the air humidity is higher than 70%, they literally pull moisture from the air as well). Most moisturizers contain several ingredients that fall into this group. The most famous is certainly hyaluronic acid, but also glycerin, propylene glycol, butylene glycol, and sorbitol. Another source of hydration is natural moisturizing factors (NMF Natural Moisturizing Factors), which include urea, sodium PCA, and amino acids.
Then come Emollients (emollients) have the role of a lubricant that stays on the surface of the skin and makes it soft and smooth. Since they do not have a water base, they also serve as a barrier to moisture loss through evaporation. The best emollients are lipids such as ceramides and fatty acids, which are naturally found in the composition of the skin’s protective barrier. This group also includes vitamin E, as well as some oils such as squalane, which is very similar to the sebum that the skin naturally secretes. In lotions labeled oil-free, the role of emollients is most often taken over by silicones and their derivatives.
And third, Occlusives increase the amount of moisture in the skin by preventing its surface evaporation and remaining on the skin in the form of a protective film. These ingredients are often considered greasy when used in their pure form instead of in carefully balanced formulas. Realistically, it’s the occlusives that make the difference between lighter-textured lotions and creams and rich, heavier formulations meant for dry skin. If the skin is oilier, or during the summer, occlusives are not a necessary ingredient in moisturizing products. These include silicone derivatives such as dimethicone, Cyclomethicone and Cyclopentasiloxane, paraffin, beeswax and lanolin, and vegetable wax.
So when we understand the role of all the important elements that should be kept on the skin and how they behave individually on the skin, we understand that the oil must come last.
There is a fear of oil, a fear of closing the pores on the skin.
We have to understand that we are all different. The skin is a reflection of our inner self.
So our health is reflected through the skin. If our skin is oily, dry, cracked, if it has lost its elasticity, if it is full of spots, pimples, or blackheads… it means that processes are happening in our body that warns us that something is bothering us and that we should listen to our skin.
So listen to it…
Oils
My first favorite oil is rosehip oil.
When we talk about wild rose oil, we are actually thinking of rosehip oil, which belongs to the rose family, and has a strong smell and a deep red color. This oil contains at least 80% of essential fatty acids, but also omega 6 and omega 9 acids, which are actually necessary for our body, but the body does not produce them.
Thanks to these acids, rose oil has the ability to regenerate skin and hair, restore cells and influence the growth of new cells. This is the reason why this oil is increasingly used in cosmetics for skin care and protection.
There are several types of rosehip oil and depending on the manufacturer it may contain different substances and additives, but each rosehip oil must contain linoleic acid (omega 6 and omega 9 acids), oleic acid, lycopene, beta-carotene, and vitamin A. All together contribute to the preservation and protection of the skin.
It is rich in vitamin A – this vitamin has shown excellent results in renewing skin cells, especially cells damaged by the sun, which are the cells found on the face. When the cell is exposed to the sun, the collagen fibers in them break, which is difficult to restore without the help of retinol and vitamin A. This is precisely why this oil is the best natural remedy after sunbathing.
Prevention of damage during sunbathing – when we talk about sunbathing, it is good to emphasize that wild rose oil, thanks to essential fatty acids and vitamin A, covers the skin with a protective layer, which helps prevent the formation of burns and bursting of capillaries under the skin (rosacea). In a similar way, this oil can be used in the treatment of rosacea or as a supplement to classical treatments.
It is full of antioxidants – wild rose oil is proven to have large amounts of antioxidant substances, among which lycopene and beta carotene stand out. By using this oil, the skin can be encouraged to defend itself against free radicals, which are created by the modern way of life.
Reduces scars and wrinkles – regeneration is the essence of this oil’s action. Thanks to the ingredients that help regenerate skin cells, this oil can be used in wrinkle reduction treatments, as it helps to create new cells and fill in furrows formed as wrinkles. In addition, this oil helps to create fibers and collagen, which prevents the formation of new wrinkles and drying and flaking of the skin. All together increases the elasticity of the skin and its renewal and rejuvenation. It has a similar effect on scars, where in addition to regenerating and restoring damaged cells, it also helps prevent skin inflammation and infections. The patients who used it against acne and pimples, as well as reducing the scars after them, had great benefits. A favorable effect was also observed in pregnant women when it was used to prevent the formation of scars and stretch marks.
My skin loved this oil. It has a slight rose scent. It is characterized by its softness because it gives the face a soft look after application. It does not leave greasy marks on the face, so the skin absorbs it easily. I use it before bed or for facial massage. It doesn’t feel heavy after application. It hydrates the face wonderfully and my face really loves it. I always have it in the bathroom and I always carry it with me.
I buy oil mostly in Serbia. It is of exceptional quality.
I order it here: https://www.hederavita.rs/en/face-care/herbal-oils-face-rose-collection/wild-rose-oil-face-care-30ml
Carrot seed oil
If you are struggling with serious skin damage due to sun exposure, hyperpigmentation, rosacea, or severe eczema, choose carrot seed oil. It is much more concentrated than carrot fruit oil, so it can regenerate facial skin in a shorter period of time!
On the other hand, carrot oil is good for dry facial skin and skin with pimple marks!
Carrots themselves are known for beta-carotene, which experts praise because it makes the body stronger. When it comes into contact with the skin, with local use, beta-carotene is converted into vitamin A due to enzymatic processes inside your skin. This vitamin is responsible for the accelerated regeneration of the facial skin and protects you from negative UV radiation and skin drying due to cold and wind. In fact, it strengthens the skin’s protective barrier!
By making carrot masks, the skin will absorb only a part of the nutrients, that’s why the experts separated the carrot root and the fruit itself and prepared the best-concentrated oil. You only need a few drops to apply and regenerate your face!
Carrot oil for the face is suitable for all skin types because it contains strong antioxidants. This means that it can protect dry skin from eczema and flaking during the winter, but also soothe oily facial skin and prevent infections. If you apply it regularly, you can achieve the ideal of normal facial skin.
Regular application of beta-carotene, vitamin D, and B group vitamins will strengthen cells that will begin to regenerate. Carrot oil for the face will make the protective barrier of the face strong so that the cells literally feel relaxed and make more proteins.
At the same time, the same cells will divide so that the old and damaged ones fall off the face. There was an excess of melanin in the damaged cells, which caused spots on the face. They will slowly disappear and will be replaced by healthy skin cells, and the face itself will become white and clean, and the complexion will be even!
My experience.
It has a slight smell that I can’t define. The smell is pleasant. Orange-tinted color. It suits my skin. It is somewhat stronger than rose oil. The skin resorbs it slowly. Wonderful oil!
Immortelle oil
It contains antimicrobial and antibiotic compounds that help regenerate skin cells. These elements also make the oil useful for those who suffer from oily skin or acne and help heal rashes, wounds, scars, and burns. Immortelle oil is one of the few that contain ‘diketones’, which help reduce the appearance of age spots. When used regularly, you’ll see skin take on a brighter, more youthful appearance. It’s amazing how potent this oil is, it’s also incredibly gentle and great for sensitive skin. Immortelle oil has superior moisturizing abilities, perfect for dry skin, and is a must-have ingredient in winter to encourage moisture retention. Using immortelle oil both morning and night will help nourish your skin; reduce the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, and blemishes; and you will give your skin a healthy glow.
I really love this oil and I have noticed that my skin is becoming more elastic. My skin feels nourished after application. Restores natural hydration.
I order natural pure oil from France through this website http://www.mardysgarden.com/
Opuntia oil-cactus oil
It naturally contains many of the most sought-after ingredients such as vitamin E, vitamin K, amino acids, antioxidants, and essential fatty acids. Some recent research has shown that applying Opuntia oil directly to the skin results in the following benefits:
Prevents skin damage:
The cactus oil contains high levels of antioxidants that can help prevent skin damage caused by free radicals. For this reason, skin care products with antioxidants are an essential part of an anti-aging routine! The prickly pear seed oil has also been shown to have antibacterial properties. Helps absorb other vitamins: A study found that mixing cactus oil with vitamin A
Helps to reduce the molecular weight of vitamin A, thereby increasing local absorption. Basically, the high-fat content of cactus oil helps vitamin A and potentially other vitamins to be absorbed into the skin.
Increases skin hydration:
Cactus oil contains a high content of linoleic acid, a fatty acid found in many fruits and vegetables. In particular, prickly pear seed oil contains large amounts of omega-6 and -9 acids. Linoleic acid supports the skin barrier and contributes to a healthy, glowing complexion. It is intended for all skin types and also has exfoliating properties.
All of this suggests that cactus oil can help the skin stay hydrated and healthy by increasing its ability to retain water.
Reduces bags under the eyes:
Thanks to its impressive vitamin K content, cactus oil can remove stubborn dark circles and restore your skin’s natural glow! Vitamin K carries pigment from the skin and tightens blood vessels to stop capillary dilation.
Stimulate collagen production:
Thanks to its amino acids, when absorbed by the skin, cactus oil can stimulate your skin’s natural collagen production. Collagen is the most abundant protein in the body and provides strength and volume to the skin and connective tissue throughout the body. As collagen levels decline with age, this is what causes the skin to sag and create fine lines and wrinkles. So whether you have mature skin that needs a little firming or you’re building a preventative anti-aging skin care regimen, this collagen-stimulating product is a winner!
I buy this oil in shops in the Far East. The price is affordable.
Castor oil
Castor oil has many potential benefits.
Castor oil contains antioxidants that fight free radicals in your body. Free radicals are responsible for accelerating the aging process, making wrinkles appear faster.
Castor oil has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and bloating. Bacteria on your face can clog pores and lead to acne. It could also reduce inflammatory processes on the face and remove dark circles.
Moisture keeps your skin young, glowing, and healthy. Moisture also prevents wrinkles.
Because of its anti-inflammatory properties, castor oil can relieve the pain associated with sunburn. Its moisturizing properties can also reduce flaking.
Castor oil is a very common ingredient in both lipstick and lip gloss. If you have dry lips, skip the lipstick and use castor oil instead. It is desirable to mix castor oil with coconut oil because it has a nicer taste.
Castor oil is full of healthy fatty acids. Fatty acids are essential for maintaining good skin health.
How is castor oil used on the face?
Castor oil is thick, so it should be mixed with a carrier oil before applying it to the face
Common carrier oils include:
- almond oil
- olive oil
- coconut oil
You can also add it to shea butter for an extra moisturizing effect. Apply this mixture on your face before going to bed, after cleansing your skin. You can leave the oil on overnight or wipe it off with a warm cloth after one to five minutes.
I mostly use it for the growth and strength of eyebrows and eyelashes.
I buy it at a local store.
Other Organic Cold Pressed Oils
- Organic Cold Pressed Hemp Seed Oil:
Hemp seed oil is obtained by cold-pressing organic hemp seeds. It moisturizes all skin types. However, it is best suited for oily and acne-prone skin because it doesn’t clog your pores. The hemp seed oil also controls sebum production on your skin all year round. - Organic Cold Pressed Argan Oil:
Regularly applying argan oil increases skin elasticity and improves the water-holding capacity of your skin barrier. - Organic Cold Pressed Jojoba Oil:
The wax esters in jojoba oil make it similar in function to the sebum naturally produced by your skin. Jojoba oil moisturizes deeply without giving a heavy skin feel. It even improves the absorption of other ingredients. - Organic Cold Pressed Neem Oil:
Neem oil is extracted by cold-pressing neem seeds and fruit. Its antimicrobial properties make it a potent remedy for reducing pimples, itchiness, and dandruff.
- Organic Cold Pressed Olive Oil:
Cold pressed olive oil contains more antioxidant activity than Vitamin E. Olive oil accelerates tissue repair and moisturizes dry skin deeply. - Organic Cold Pressed Apricot Kernel Oil:
Apricot oil is extracted by cold-pressing apricot kernels. It is used as a body oil because of its glow-boosting properties. The residual seeds are crushed further and used as a body exfoliator to remove dead skin. - Organic Cold Pressed Pomegranate Seed Oil:
Pomegranate seed oil is best suited for mature skin due to its anti-aging properties. It also contains essential fatty acids that provide antioxidants and anti-inflammatory benefits to the skin.
There is plenty of different oils. Much more could be added about them and their properties. These are the oils found in my beauty stash. These are the oils that my skin likes.
Everyone should find the right oil for themselves. As I have already stated, everyone should listen to their own skin. Not every oil is for every skin type. Some people don’t like the smell, some don’t like the oiliness of the oil, and some don’t like the absorption.
In the future, I will probably come across other oils and even then I will certainly share my experience with you.
When choosing an oil, make sure that the product is clean, i.e. that there is no chemistry and that it is of biological origin. With clean oils, there is no mistake.
Trust your intuition and follow your skin’s reaction.