These are the five best facial oils to try for different skin types

Pinays used to steer clear of applying any kind of oil on their faces. With the often hot and sticky weather plus oily skin being a common beauty concern, using facial oils didn't really make much sense! As more beauty gurus started including oils in their skincare routines and mixing them with their foundations though, that perception has definitely shifted to seeing oils in a more favorable light.

We know now that everyone from the driest of skin types to oily-since-birth gals (like me!) can actually benefit from facial oils. They keep moisture from escaping your skin, and are loaded with nourishing antioxidants and fatty acids. The key is finding the right kind of oils to suit your skin condition and needs. Don't know which to get? We've put together a quick guide with our top picks!

All skin types: Kiehl’s Midnight Recovery Concentrate (P2,880/30 ml at Kiehl’s)

This is the original gangstah that made facial oils cool! This serum is a mix of a lot of different oils including squalane, evening primrose oil, and jojoba seed oil. The potent mix effectively revives dull, haggard-looking skin. It makes the skin look brighter and more supple without clogging pores, making it ideal for all skin types. As the name implies, it’s intended to be used as part of a nightly routine, which is perfect because the soothing lavender scent can lull you to some much-needed beauty sleep.

Oily skin: Herbivore Botanicals Lapis Oil Balancing Facial Oil (P1,316/8 ml at Sephora.ph)

This luxurious blue oil gets its hue from blue tansy, one of the new oil superstars in the beauty world. Blue tansy oil is rich in Azulene, which helps reduce inflammation and has anti-bacterial and antihistamine properties as well. This concoction also includes squalane oil, jojoba seed oil, vitamin E, and coconut oil. It absorbs quickly and doesn’t feel heavy on the skin, so even oily-skinned gals like myself can enjoy using it. Being an organic brand, Herbivore Botanicals uses all-natural and plant-based ingredients.

Dry skin: Nuxe Huile Prodigieuse Dry Oil (P1,250/50 ml at Beauty Bar)

This rich blend of macadamia oil, sweet almond oil, olive oil, and sunflower oil is deeply moisturizing yet doesn’t feel greasy. It gives a healthy glow that those with dry-skin will surely love, and the distinctive scent elevates application to a decadent experience. It’s also multi-purpose so you can apply it to your hair and body, as well!

Sensitive skin: In Her Element Pure Squalane Facial Oil (P445/15 ml at inherelement.ph) 

Although this oil can be used by all skin types, it’s most beneficial for sensitive skin because it’s really just made of one ingredient: squalane (from olive trees, not from sharks). This is as simple as it can get! It's also odorless and tasteless - perfect for those who don't want their skincare . to contain potentially irritating fragrances. The skin absorbs it very quickly yet it still leaves a nice sheen without the greasy feel. Use it alone, mix it in with your current moisturizer, or even mix a drop or two into foundation for a more dewy finish.

Acne-prone skin: In Her Element Spot Control Facial Oil (P475/15 ml at inherelement.ph)

The combination of  tea tree oil, sunflower oil, jojoba oil, and vitamin E combats acne while promoting balance and supplying nourishment to the skin. Unlike other treatments for troubled skin, this formula doesn't dry out the face so you can opt to apply it just on problem areas or swap it with your usual moisturizer when a breakout threatens to take over your entire face.

Have you tried using facial oils yet? Which one has suited you best?