The Ultimate Guide for Using Oils in Skin Care

By now we’re all well aware of the power of coconut oil. The way it’s been talked about over the last few years you’d think it was made of magic, and maybe, in a way, it is. Coconut oil—like many other plant-derived oils—is fantastic for your skin. Want to start using more oils in your own beauty routine? We chatted with Suzanne Chavez, spa director at New Mexico’s Inn and Spa at Loretto, to learn about the best oils for skin, what things to look out for, and how to incorporate oils into your daily routine. 

The Importance of Oils

For the last decade, we were basically a no oil culture, Chavez says. It’s true: We feared it in our diets, skin care products, and cosmetics. But now, oils and healthy fats have become a basic part of maintaining a healthy body and mind. And now, we can add skin to that list.

“Essential fatty acids are crucial for replenishing and maintaining the hydration and nourishment of the skin,” Chavez says. “Oils protect the skin’s acid mantle, rebuild and maintain its lipid barrier, and act as a carrier for other active ingredients.” In addition to coconut, Chavez recommends using other oils such as argan, jojoba, apricot kernel, avocado, macadamia, kukui nut, marula, borage, rosehip, and calendula. When shopping for skin care oils be sure to go for quality over quantity. “Be certain [the oils] are organic and do not contain additives or fragrance of any kind,” she says. 

Essential fatty acids are crucial for replenishing and maintaining the hydration and nourishment of the skin.

How to Use Oils in Your Routine

So now that you have your oils, how do you us them properly? Chavez recommends using facial oils morning and night. “Before bed, and after cleansing, massage your favorite oil lightly into the skin with upward soothing strokes,” she says.” In the [morning], after rinsing your face, apply a light layer of your favorite oil on your damp skin and allow it to soak in.” Then, continue with your normal skin care routine.

It’s important to note, however, that not all oils are suited for your face. Chavez recommends skipping essential oils in your facial skin care routine: “Even the [purest] essential oils can be somewhat inflammatory to delicate facial skin,” she says. Instead, save essential oils for diffusing, massage, and adding to a warm, relaxing bath.