Four facial oil recommendations from a former hater
I am of the opinion that facial oils are severely underrated. They can feel so… extra - and, therefore, not for everybody. Since they’re primarily occlusive in nature, oils work best when they’re not just used as a one-and-done skincare step. Rather, they best function as a final moisture “sealant” to go over your serum and moisturizer. That’s why some might feel that they’re excessive.
Once upon a time, I felt the same way. However, after trying several brands that were able to meet my skin’s constantly shifting needs, I gained a newfound appreciation and a list of recos I’m sharing with you!
For Sensitive or Reactive Skin: Purito Plainet Squalane Oil 100 (30ml for around Php600 from Shopee)
This isn’t my first encounter with Purito skincare, but this super gentle facial oil easily became my favorite from their lineup! Even after 3-4 layers of skincare underneath, this fragrance-free oil doesn’t feel like it just sits on top of everything to form a greasy layer. My skin feels hydrated and looks pleasantly dewy.
FYI: The squalane here is 100% sugarcane-derived. I did not experience any negative reactions from first use. Plus, bonus eco points to Purito for using a recycled glass container and a biodegradable box.
For Normal Skin: Bask Botanik Uplifting Face Serum (30ml for Php600 at Shopee)
Bask Botanik specializes in relaxing essential oil blends for on-the-go aromatherapy. But they've also recently launched some oil-based skincare solutions. The Uplifting Face Serum is actually a facial oil blend with Rosehip Oil serving as the carrier. Helichrysum, Frankincense, and Geranium essential oils temper the nutty Rosehip scent with pleasant fruity-floral notes, while also containing anti-inflammatory properties. I typically don't have any issues with essential oils and fragrance, so it was enjoyable for me to get both skincare benefits and a relaxing scent before hitting the sack.
Product name aside, I still recommend using this as a final-step facial oil instead of as the serum step in order to seal in more moisture.
For the Retinol Newbie: The Ordinary Retinol 0.5% in Squalane (30ml for Php729 from LOOK)
So you're at that point where you want to see what the big fuss is about with retinol skincare, but you don't want to deep dive yet. Do it the mildest way with a low dose to start with and a base that's known to be soothing. I didn't experience any tightness or peeling while using this, but it also depends on your own skin's tolerance to this active ingredient.
By the way, The Ordinary offers a version of this with an even lower Retinol dose of 0.2%, just in case you want to take it nice and easy.
For the Retinol Devotee: In Her Element Deep Sleep Retinol Oil (20ml for P695 from In Her Element)
If you’re no stranger to retinol in your skincare, then you might want to consider leveling up with Deep Sleep. This is pretty potent stuff. After about 3 uses spaced out within a week, I can feel the freshly exfoliated tightness on my face. Don’t worry; nothing drastic like skin peeling. I experienced mild purging in the first few uses, but it does contribute to improved skin texture over time.
The secret? Hydrogenated Retinol for a gradual, slow-release treatment. In this case, the retinol suspended in the oil base acts like an additional buffer to give it time to sink into your skin when applied over moisturizer.
There you have it - four facial oil recos. Which one do you find suits you the most? Also, where are you at with facial oils? Did you take to it right away, or are you still looking for The One to change your mind? Let's discuss in the comments section!
