The eight best oils to use for your skin, hair, and body

If you have oily skin like me, you’d probably think that putting on a face oil is counterintuitive. I certainly felt that way until Liz gave us samples of the In Her Element First Wash Cleansing Oil in its testing stages. It was the first time I'd ever knowingly and willingly applied any kind of oil to my face and something just...clicked. I discovered how easy, effective, and non-abrasive oil cleansing is. Now, I don't need to struggle removing my HG mascara (Heroine Make's Volume and Curl) every night!

Once you get past your fear of oils, you’ll be surprised how many different kinds are available and how each one can play an important role in your skincare routine. Don't know where to start? Here are our absolute favorites!

Squalane

Aside from the cleansing oil, the In Her Element Pure Squalane Oil (P445 at inherelement.ph) was among the first oils that I tried and made me change my mind about them. I was surprised how light it felt, and how it quickly absorbed into my skin without the heavy greasy feeling.

Now, before you start raising pitchforks, know that some types of squalane oil are derived from plants! The one used by In Her Element comes from olive trees, and as a 100% saturated oil, it's a lot more stable and has a longer shelf life. Squalane is great for moisturizing, preventing dry flakes, and smoothing out fine lines over time. With just a single ingredient in the bottle, It's also non-irritating and non-comedogenic, so it's particularly best for those who have dry and sensitive skin. 

Sunflower

Human Nature’s Sunflower Oil (P175) has been such a big hit that sunflower as a beauty oil is one of the few that more Pinays know about. It's well-loved for being a great multitasker: soothing skin damage, moisturizing dry skin and hair, lightening dark areas like pimple scars, and even removing makeup! Ever Bilena makes a cheaper version for P135.

Tea Tree

Ever noticed how a lot of acne-fighting products contain tea tree oil? This is because it has natural antibacterial properties. It helps in quickening the healing process - just apply it as a spot treatment on active and healing pimples. The Body Shop's Tea Tree Oil line also offers more product options like BB creams for covering up scars when your skin is in the process of healing. In Her Element's Spot Control Facial Oil (P475 at inherelement.ph) contains tea tree oil as well for combatting acne.

Jojoba

Pronounced as ho-ho-ba, the oil is derived from the seeds of the jojoba plant. It has a stable shelf life and has high resistance to high temperatures. Jojoba oil is a common ingredient in hair conditioners. This works great in smoothing out frizz, and moisturizing dry hair. This also works a great skin softener, giving nourishment and balance to your skin!

Grape seed

Unlike most oil cleansers that use mineral oil (it's so cheap), In Her Element's First Wash Cleansing Oil (P450 at inherelement.ph) is actually based on grape seed! It's clean, light, and has been a mainstay in a lot of anti-aging skincare because it supposedly aids in restoring collagen. It also helps to brighten the skin.

Sweet Almond

Almonds contain omega-2s that are not only a good fat, but also great for moisturizing the body. Sweet almond oil is hypoallergenic, so it’s great for those with sensitive skin. It helps soothe skin problems like eczema and psoriasis. IHE's cleansing oil also contains sweet almond in the second highest concentration aside from grape seed.

Castor

We've proven that brow and lash hairs grow really do grow and get more lush with regular use! You can even apply this to your hair and scalp to both promote hair growth and restore moisture.

Argan

Apart from sunflower, argan enjoys cult status among Pinays. It's high in Vitamin E, essential fatty acids, and proteins. It also has anti-inflammatory properties. You can pretty much use this on any part of your body, from your hair down to to your toes! Apply it for an extra shot of moisture on your skin and shine in your hair.

Have you tried any facial oils? Which are your faves?