Many of us have been taught to keep oils off of our skin. We’ve been told that we’ll break out, look shiny and slick, and that what our skin actually needs is less oil in order to look and feel its best. While it’s a convincing argument--that more oil begets even more oil which creates clogged pores which creates blemishes--it’s actually not an accurate argument. With the right oils, your skin can actually improve tremendously. The key is to make sure you’re using the right ones.
The reason that using certain oils on your skin is actually beneficial is because your skin is covered by a very thin lipid layer known as the acid mantle. Think of it as your skin’s immune system; a healthy and properly functioning acid mantle knows what to keep out and what to let in and maintains the proper pH which is crucial for infection (think acne) free skin. Soap strips your skin of the acid mantle, which in turn renders your skin vulnerable to outside invaders, disrupts its natural pH and predisposes it to premature aging. Thus, the more you can nourish and maintain your skin’s natural acid mantle, the better off your skin will be.
One of the best oils to use on your skin is jojoba oil. This golden oil comes from the desert growing jojoba plant, and every glistening drop is filled with the full spectrum of vitamin E. Interestingly, jojoba oil is actually not an oil at all, but a plant wax that is almost identical to the skin’s own sebum. Because of this, jojoba oil is extremely easy for the skin to absorb and utilize, making it an extra effective anti aging skincare oil for all over use. It helps to unclog pores, remove dirt and even makeup with ease, all while being perfectly moisturizing, light and balancing.
Raw shea butter is another plant oil that is extremely beneficial for the skin. Similar to jojoba oil, shea butter is very helpful in helping to balance the skin- especially skin that is irritated. Many people notice that a single application of high quality raw shea butter instantly reduces their redness. It is also very high in skin cell lubricating essential fatty acids, which are very important for ensuring that your skin’s cellular function is working correctly. It is moisturizing, protective, keeps the acid mantle happy and fed, and one of the best moisturizers you could ever use.