WHY SHOULD YOU USE OILS?

Benefits of using oils

1. As we age, we lose, elasticity and collagen in our skin structure – certain oils help with anti- aging and are shown to increase elasticity. (1)

2. Oils are emollient by nature which means that they soften and soothe the skin making it feel smoother. Oils like Rosehip help to fade marks / scars (2)

3. They nourish and protect our skin barrier (3). As we age our skin becomes thinner. Protecting our skin barrier by applying oil helps to lessen the effects of Transepidermal Water Loss (TEWL) by sealing in hydration and providing extra nourishment. Make sure to apply oil to damp skin.

4. Oils are used in lotions, cleansers, shampoos, conditioners and even make-up! They help to provide a smooth glide to products and help your skin glow!

5. Some oils contain vitamins such as A, C, E, D, some have Coenzyme Q10 such as Olive oil. Oils contain polyphenols, essential fatty acids, botanical antioxidants and some are anti-inflammatory and help to keep free radicals away! Free radicals age our skin by breaking down skin's collagen, creating fine lines and wrinkles and dark spots.

6. Believe it or not some oils are astringent and/or non-comedogenic. They can help to regulate sebum production and reduce acne breakouts and blemishes!

7. Oils are quite versatile which means you can layer these with other products.

8. Oils can be used under foundations for smoother application especially if you suffer from dry, flakey skin.

What are oils?

Oils are a form of concentrated plant extracts that contain beneficial antioxidants, essential fatty acids and vitamins that our skin needs. At Eesha we choose oils that are cold processed and not extracted via the means of heat. This means that they retain their nutrients.

They provide glide, smoothness, texture and stability to many skincare and cosmetic formulations.

Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, is an ester and is often touted as being an amazing skincare ingredient. It provides thickness, glide and a nice, after-feel to a product. Would you be surprised to learn that it is produced by reacting Coconut oil with Glycerin.

Oils, plant extracts, herbs and spices are seeped in Indian culture and tradition. It is often used in Ayurveda. Oils are used on babies and post-partum mothers (six weeks after childbirth) in massages to ensure healthy growth and recovery.

Oils provide skin with many skin loving benefits. They can help fight free radicals, contain anti-oxidants, vitamins, bio-active properties and help to refine, smooth and replenish the skin. Oiling and massaging your skin is the best way to provide your skin with nutrients. Integrating it into a routine is a way to relax. to truly nurture and pamper yourself. It is beneficial as we age.

How to use oils

1. Just like moisturisers and creams you can choose oils that are specifically designed for your skin type.

2. Use a different facial oil/ serum for morning and night. Serums that are used in the morning may be lighter as they go under sunscreen and makeup. Facial oils or concentrates at night may be formulated to provide additional nutrients or may be richer and thicker in texture.

3. When applying oils at night ensure that your face or body is damp, wet or hydrated.

4. Use oils sparingly (2 – 3 drops should be sufficient). Less is more which means they are also cost effective.

5. Look at the expiry date on a product. Like most products oils have a certain shelf life and can go rancid. Keep them away from light and store them in a cool, dry area.

Storage: When you buy oils, they should always be in an amber glass. If they are not, you should keep them away from light and heat.

References

(1) Qiraouani Boucetta K, Charrouf Z, Aguenaou H, Derouiche A, Bensouda Y. The effect of dietary and/or cosmetic Argan oil on postmenopausal skin elasticity. (NIH) National Library of Medicine, National Center for Biotechnology Information, PMC - PubMed Central, Clin Interv Aging. 2015;10:339-349. doi:10.2147/CIA.S71684

(2) Lei Z, Cao Z, Yang Z, Ao M, Jin W, Yu L. Rosehip oil promotes excisional wound healing by accelerating the phenotypic transition of macrophages. (NIH) National Library of Medicine, National Center for Biotechnology Information, PMC - PubMed Central Planta Med. 2019;85(7): 563-569. doi:10.1055/a-0725-8456

(3) Vaughn AR, Clark AK, Sivamani RK, Shi VY. Natural oils for skin-barrier repair: Ancient compounds now backed by modern science. National Library of Medicine, National Center for Biotechnology Information, PMC - PubMed Am J Clin Dermatol. 2018;19(1):103-117. doi:10.1007/s40257-017-0301-1