Skin Care 101: Unlocking the Secret to Radiant Skin with Facial Oils

In the pursuit of glowing, healthy skin, we often find ourselves inundated with various skincare products promising miraculous results. However, amidst this sea of options, one skincare superhero stands out for its unparalleled ability to nourish, hydrate, and rejuvenate the skin: facial oils. Despite their simplicity, facial oils boast a plethora of benefits that can transform your skincare routine and unveil a complexion that glows.

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1. Deep Hydration:

Facial oils are known for their exceptional hydrating properties, penetrating deep into the skin to deliver intense moisture. Unlike traditional moisturizers that sit on the skin's surface, facial oils possess a unique molecular structure that allows them to effectively nourish and hydrate the skin's deeper layers. This deep hydration not only restores moisture balance but also helps fortify the skin's natural barrier, keeping it supple and resilient against environmental stressors.

2. Antioxidant Protection:

Rich in antioxidants, facial oils serve as potent defenders against free radical damage, which can accelerate the aging process and lead to dull, tired-looking skin. Antioxidants work tirelessly to neutralize free radicals, preventing oxidative stress and preserving the skin's youthful vitality. Incorporating facial oils into your skincare regimen can help shield your skin from environmental aggressors, such as pollution and UV radiation while promoting a brighter, more radiant complexion.

3. Balance and Restoration:

Contrary to popular belief, facial oils are suitable for all skin types, including oily and acne-prone skin. Certain facial oils possess sebum-regulating properties that can help balance oil production and prevent breakouts. Additionally, facial oils with anti-inflammatory properties, such as rosehip oil or jojoba oil, can soothe irritation and reduce redness, promoting a clearer, more even complexion. By restoring balance to the skin, facial oils address a multitude of skincare concerns, from dryness and sensitivity to acne and signs of aging.

Need recommendations on which to include in your routine? Here are some facial oils I find myself going back to time & time again:

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True Botanicals Pure Radiance Oil

It’s a clarifying and moisturizing oil that is made with acne-prone skin in mind. It's formulated with ceramides and fatty acids to keep your skin looking and feeling clear, smooth, balanced, and hydrated. 

Le Prunier Plum Beauty Oil

This is probably one of the best and most well-known facial oils on the market. It has a lightweight texture that absorbs quickly into the skin to create a radiant glow.

Drunk Elephant Virgin Marula Luxury Facial Oil

This is formulated with 100% unrefined marula oil, along with antioxidants and omega fatty acids, to help moisturize the skin + protect it from environmental stressors. The lightweight texture sinks into the skin quickly and gives a subtle glow.

Sunday Riley U.F.O. Ultra-Clarifying Face Oil

This one is perfect for those with oily, acne-prone skin since it combines the purifying qualities of salicylic acid with the nourishing qualities of an oil. Its main goal is to help clear congested skin while maintaining moisture.

Erborian Skin Therapy Multi-Perfecting Night Oil-Serum

This facial oil is meant for nighttime application for a fresh-faced morning. It has 17 different plant extracts, like red pepper, yuzu, and bamboo, to enhance luminosity. 

The Outset Ultralight Moisture-Boosting Oil 

I'm a huge fan of Outset and the formulas they've been releasing including this one. This oil is ultralight and hydrating and is meant to be used on all skin types. This oil has plant-derived ingredients, like avocado, and nourishes the skin wherever you use it. 

What are your favorite facial oils? Let me know in the comments. 

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Winter Skincare Tips for Acne-Prone Skin: How To Minimize Breakouts and Keep Skin Hydrated

Winter can be such a tough time for those with acne-prone skin (hi, it me πŸ‘‹πŸΌ). The combination of cold weather, indoor heating, and dry air can wreak havoc on anyone's complexion. However, with the right skincare routine and some tips tailored to the winter season, maintaining clear and hydrated skin can be easier than securing a table for six during the brunch rush.

Image via PopSugar

Below, are a handful of skincare tips that worked for me when I was struggling with acne: 

Go Gentle:

Avoid harsh cleansers that strip away natural oils and irritate the skin further. Instead, use a gentle facial cleanser with active ingredients like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide to target acne. For me, I like to cleanse only at night to avoid dryness. Only caveat here, is when I use active ingredients the night before, THEN I’ll cleanse in the AM. Of course, being selective about beauty products will help a lot here too.

Don't Forget to Exfoliate:

Exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells and improves skin texture, plus it helps prevent clogged pores from turning into zits. Avoid physical exfoliants and instead include a chemical exfoliant with ingredients like AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids) or BHAs (beta hydroxy acids) which gently dissolve dead skin cells, unclog pores, and reduce inflammation. 

Hydration is Key πŸ—:

It's so important to keep your skin hydrated during winter. Opt for oil-free, non-comedogenic moisturizers that provide deep hydration. Look for products that have superstar ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides which lock in moisture and maintain a healthy barrier function. Don't forget to drink plenty of water and use a humidifier to combat dry air too!

Sunscreen Is A Must:

You need to wear sunscreen 24/7! The sun's harmful UV rays can damage your skin all year round, meaning it can worsen acne scars or hyperpigmentation. Chemical or mineral - as long as it's oil-free and non-comedogenic you can slather it on. 

Don't Pick:

I know this is harder than it seems but avoid touching, picking, or popping can make acne worse. I don't trust myself, so I always have zit stickers on hand to cover breakouts which help with the temptation.

Winter skincare for acne-prone skin requires a delicate balance of hydration, gentle cleansing, and targeted treatments. And hopefully, some of these tips will help you achieve that balance. Remember, consistency is key but if you feel like nothing is working reach out to your dermatologist.

And if you’re having a hard time figuring out if your products are non-comedogenic use this website to double-check: acneclinicnyc.com

Let me know in the comments what tips you're trying!

Skin Care 101: Vitamin C Serums for Brighter, Glowy Skin

Vitamin C is a powerhouse ingredient. It's the most potent when found in serums and when used correctly, it can leave skin looking healthier and brighter with each day. It tackles common skin concerns like dullness, discoloration, and uneven skin texture, making it a favorite product among the acne community.  

It’s also one serum I use religiously (followed by sunscreen) each day.

Image via Vogue

Vitamin C serum is typically used in the morning due to its antioxidant properties which act as a shield to deflect pollution, UV damage, and other environmental aggressors. It's also recommended to be applied after the "toning" step and before moisturizer.

If you're like me and using other serums or products, wait until the Vitamin C serum has dried before finishing the rest of your skincare routine. This handy fan from Amazon helps speed up the process.

Because of the amazing brightening benefits of Vitamin C, you may notice it in some of your other products listed as ascorbic acid or L-ascorbic acid.

Need recommendations on which to include in your routine? Here are some serums I find myself going back to time & time again:

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Naturium Vitamin C Complex Serum
I’m currently using this one! This is a budget-friendly serum that dries without stickiness. It features a highly stable, pure l-ascorbic acid and Kakadu plum to visibly brighten, hydrate, and protect the skin barrier. 

KLUR Brilliant Light Multi-Correctional Repair Serum
This fast-absorbing serum is great for all skin types and tones. The gentle formula helps firm skin, improve skin texture, and even skin tone. The bottle is housed in an amber bottle which helps to prevent UV oxidation and protect the potency of the product for longer. 

Ole Henriksen Banana Bright Vitamin C Serum
You may have seen this brand positively featured (and loved) on TikTok for good reason. Their vitamin C serum leaves behind a glow which makes it great for brightening. It layers wonderfully with other skincare products and has no pilling under makeup. Don't forget to scoop up their Banana Bright Eye Cream too!

iNNBEAUTY PROJECT Green Machine Vitamin C + Green Superfoods Jelly Serum
InnBeauty is a newish skincare brand that focuses on vegan, effective products. This vitamin C serum has a lightweight texture and is formulated with pomegranate stem cells that help reduce hyperpigmentation. 

Paula's Choice Super Antioxidant Concentrate Serum
This serum is made with a stable form of Vitamin C which makes it a great alternative for folks with sensitive skin. It also has peptides and ceramides which help strengthen the skin's barrier. 

SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic
This powerhouse award-winning serum is on the pricey end but worth every cent. It has a lightweight formula that is absorbed quickly and doesn’t leave a tacky residue behind. I’ve only been able to afford it once, and man, the results are amazing.

What are your favorite Vitamin C Serums? Let me know in the comments.

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