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I’ve seen many products touting the benefits of using natural oils in skincare, but is it worth the hype? I’m not a chemist, and I don’t have an extensive background in skin biology. However, I believe in the power of natural ingredients, and I think that oils can do amazing things for your skin. After switching to natural oils, I’ve found a few points worth mentioning. So, let’s get to it!
1) Natural oils can help to clean your skin
Most people seem to think that natural oils clog your pores, but in fact, they can help to clean out dirt and grime from your skin. Although it might seem illogical that natural oils would leave your skin clean and shiny, they do. Abundant in fatty acids, such as oleic acid, natural oils act as skin penetrating enhancers, giving your skin a deep clean and delivering nutrients to deeper layers. Something we all crave at the end of the day.
2) They are deeply hydrating
I don’t know about you, but I’m tired of facial cleansers that exfoliate my skin harshly, disrupting its natural moisture barrier. In effect, allowing moisture to seep out of the skin, making it feel dry and tight. Thanks to their ample fatty acid content, natural oils are highly hydrating. They can help to heal dry skin conditions such as eczema. Coconut oil is a natural emollient that can help to improve the skin’s barrier function. Furthermore, it can protect your skin from transepidermal water loss by providing it with crucial essential fatty acids.
3) Can help to relieve skin sensitivity.
Many people have problems using oil-based cleansers simply because they tend to cause irritation and redness. Rice bran oil, for instance, is deeply moisturising and absorbs readily without leaving any heavy residue. Rich in y-Oryzanol, a powerful antioxidant, rice bran oil is known for its anti-inflammatory effect, making it a perfect choice for sensitive skin.
4) They can help to treat acne
Natural oils are some of the most potent acne treatment products on the market today. With antibacterial properties, natural oils can help to kill off propionibacterium acnes, bacteria responsible for acne breakouts. Take neem oil; not only does it soothe your skin, but it can also help ease inflammation and reduce swelling, giving you clearer skin in a short amount of time.
5) Natural oils can absorb impurities, making it easier for you to exfoliate
Many natural oils are rich in fatty acids and can easily absorb impurities from the skin, making the skin cleaner and smoother. Sunflower oil is a perfect example of how natural oils can help make your skin soft and clean without harsh impact.
6) Hold antimicrobial properties
Some natural oils hold potent antimicrobial properties, making them helpful in fighting off harmful microorganisms on your skin, which is especially relevant in acne. The deep cleansing action of natural oils can help to unclog pores and prevent acne breakouts. Take andiroba oil, for example. Known for its antibacterial effect, it is a well-rounded oil that can help ease inflammation, reduce swelling. It is beneficial in treating skin conditions such as acne, eczema and psoriasis.
7) May help to reduce hyperpigmentation
Many natural oils also contain high antioxidant vitamins such as vitamin C and E. Papaya seed oil, rich in vitamins A, C, can help to lighten the skin.
8) They can help to protect your skin from the harmful effects of UV radiation
Being able to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays is about more than just preventing sunburn. Take buriti oil, for instance, rich in Vitamin A, E, and monounsaturated fatty acids; it is a natural SPF booster. A popular ingredient in today’s cosmetics due to its ability to absorb UV radiation. In skincare products, buriti oil acts as a sun filter protecting the skin from sunburn and premature ageing.
9) Natural oils have extra skin repairing properties
Numerous carrier oils are loaded with essential vitamins, minerals, and amino acids that can help speed up the healing process and improve overall skin health. Take rosehip oil, for example. Rich in linoleic and α-Linolenic acid fatty acids, it is known for its regenerative properties and used in cosmetics to eliminate scars and treat psoriasis.
10) Help to heal wounds and burns
Natural oils have shown time and time again to help heal wounds. Black cumin seed oil is a perfect example of how natural oils can effectively help to heal wounds. Known for its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antifungal effect, black cumin seed oil can help promote the healing of wounds and burns.
11) Can help to improve skins overall health
Many of the antioxidants found in natural oils are actually fat-soluble, allowing them to deeply penetrate your skin and help to fight off free radicals that cause oxidative stress on the skin. Which, in turn, can help to improve your skin’s overall health and appearance, making your skin look younger and radiant.
12) They smell nice
Although I’m sure we’d all appreciate a facial cleanser that smelled like vanilla cupcakes, sometimes I think it’s better just to go with something that smells … nice. And who can say no to a product that smells like a tropical paradise? Not sure about you, but I’d don’t mind smelling like a fruit bowl.
Takeaway
Natural oils are a great alternative to harsh cleansers. In fact, natural oils are so good at preparing your skin for the next step of your skincare routine as they can help enhance the performance of moisturisers, etc. So, if you’ve been looking for a way to cleanse and rehydrate your skin without over-drying it out in the process, a natural oil cleanser may be just what you’re looking for.
