Body oils are a powerful tool that can help to hydrate and nourish, leaving your skin feeling silky smooth. And I’m going to share with you how to use body oil for best results.
You see, body oils are thicker than lotions and are more suited to different skin types.
The beauty industry has seen a major shift in recent years with more people turning to natural and organic alternatives for their skincare routine. Body oils are no exception, with many brands creating nourishing blends of essential oils and plant-based ingredients.
Read about our favourite body oils for glowing, healthy skin here.
Let’s dive in and learn how to use body oil correctly.
Why Use Body Oil?
Body oil differs from regular lotions or creams in that it does not contain water, making it a more concentrated and nourishing product.
Not only does it hydrate, but body oil can also provide long-lasting moisture that can improve the overall appearance and texture of your skin.
The many benefits of body oil is that it hydrates and protects skin while sealing in moisture.
The skin barrier function of body oil creates a protective layer over the skin that can help prevent moisture loss, keeping your skin feeling hydrated and supple.
Many body oils contain natural ingredients that offer additional benefits beyond hydration, such as anti-inflammatory effects and antioxidants, making it a multifunctional skincare product.
How to Apply Body Oil
Prepare Your Skin
Before applying body oil, it’s important to prepare your skin. This will help the oil penetrate deeper into your skin and provide better results.
Exfoliate: Use a gentle exfoliator to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores. This will allow the oil to penetrate deeper into the skin’s surface.
Cleanse: Use a mild cleanser to wash away any dirt, oil, or residue from your skin.
Pat Dry: Gently pat your skin dry with a towel, leaving some moisture on your skin.
Apply Body Oil
Now that your skin is prepared, it’s time to apply the body oil.
Warm Up: Warm up the body oil in your hands by rubbing them together. This will make the oil easier to spread and absorb into your skin.
Start at the Bottom: Begin applying the oil at your feet and work your way up. This will help to prevent the oil from dripping down onto already oiled areas.
Massage In: Use gentle circular motions to massage the oil into your skin. This will help to improve blood circulation and aid in absorption.
Focus on Dry Areas: Pay extra attention to dry areas like elbows, knees, and heels. These areas tend to be more prone to dryness and can benefit from extra hydration.
Extra Tips
Here are a few additional tips to get the most out of your body oil:
Use after showering: Apply body oil right after showering as it absorbs better into slightly damp skin. The warmth and moisture from the shower will help open up pores, allowing the oil to penetrate deeper.
A few drops goes a long way: Body oil is highly concentrated, so you only need a small amount to cover a large area. Start with a few drops and add more as needed.
Mix with lotion: For a lighter application, mix your oil with your favorite body lotion. This will dilute the oil and provide a more even coverage.
Use before bed: Applying body oil before bed can be especially beneficial as your skin repairs itself overnight. You’ll wake up to soft, glowing skin in the morning!
Choosing the Right Body Oil
Factors to consider when selecting a body oil are :
Ingredients: Look for natural and nourishing ingredients like jojoba oil, almond oil, or coconut oil.
Skin type: Consider your skin type and choose a body oil that addresses any specific concerns you may have. Some oils have anti-inflammatory properties, while others can improve skin elasticity.
Scent: Body oils come in various scents and many contain essential oils that are designed to either uplift or relax you, so choose one that appeals to you and avoid any potential allergies.
Avoid synthetic ingredients: Some body oils may contain synthetic ingredients that can irritate or dry out your skin, so it’s best to avoid them.
Rosehip Oil
Rosehip Oil, derived from the wild rose bush and is a potent natural oil renowned for its skin-nurturing properties.
It is rich in essential fatty acids such as oleic and linoleic acids, antioxidants, and vitamins A, C, and E.
Its high concentration of bio-available vitamin C makes it particularly beneficial for promoting skin health, enhancing skin firmness and elasticity, reducing uneven pigmentation, and aiding in skin repair and regeneration.
Rosehip oil is also known for its ability to deeply hydrate the skin, replenish the moisture barrier, and reduce signs of aging such as fine lines and wrinkles.
Its nourishing properties make it suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
Jojoba Oil
Jojoba oil is a natural plant-based oil that has been used for centuries in skincare.
This oil closely resembles the skin’s natural sebum, making it easily absorbed and non-greasy. It is known to be a humectant, and humectants bring moisture into the skin.
It is rich in vitamins and minerals such as vitamin E and B-complex vitamins, which help to nourish and protect the skin.
Jojoba oil is also known for its anti-inflammatory properties, as well as its wound healing effects, while the antioxidants in this oil may help with the production of collagen.
This is a great oil to try if your are eczema prone or suffer from psoriasis or other dry skin conditions.
Sweet Almond Oil
Sweet almond oil has a high fatty acid content and vitamins A and E, making it deeply moisturizing and nourishing for the skin.
The high vitamin E content helps to protect the skin from UV damage and premature aging.
It also contains Zinc, which can help with healing wounds and reducing inflammation.
Almond oil has also been shown to be an effective treatment to reduce the appearance of stretch marks.
Sweet almond oil is easily absorbed into the skin without clogging pores, making it suitable for all skin types.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is a popular ingredient in natural body oils, known for its emollient properties and ability to lock in moisture.
It is rich in fatty acids that help to hydrate and soothe the skin, making it particularly useful for dry or sensitive skin types.
Coconut oil also has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, making it beneficial for various skin conditions such as eczema or acne.
However, those with oily or acne-prone skin may want to avoid using coconut oil, as it can potentially clog pores.
Olive Oil
Olive oil, in addition to its antioxidant properties, may aid in the prevention or reversal of damage caused by ultraviolet radiation.
It possesses a significantly high concentration of a compound known as squalene, unlike other fats and oils commonly consumed by humans. It is this abundance of squalene that provides an additional boost of antioxidants.
However, extra-virgin olive oil is best for skincare, as it is less processed and retains more nutrients.
It may not be suitable for those with acne-prone skin, as it can potentially clog pores. It is also not the best choice for those with sensitive skin.
Avocado Oil
Avocado oil is rich in vitamins A, D, and E, as well as antioxidants.
It is fast absorbing into the skin, making it a great option for all skin types.
It is also known for its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to stimulate collagen production.
This oil can also help improve skin elasticity, reduce wrinkles, and protect against environmental damage.
Sunflower Oil
Sunflower oil is made from sunflower seeds and is high in vitamins E.
It is known for its long lasting hydration and ability to smooth skin, making it beneficial for those with dry or aging skin.
This oil is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin.
As an added bonus, sunflower oil has a light texture and absorbs quickly into the skin without leaving a greasy residue.
When considering the use of sunflower oil for your skin, choosing an organic, cold-pressed variety would be a wise choice. Unlike other extraction processes, which may introduce additives that alter or reduce its benefits, this method ensures the oil retains its maximum potential and purity.
Conclusion
Body oils are a luxurious addition to any skincare routine, providing deep hydration and nourishment for soft, glowing skin.
By following the steps outlined in this guide and considering factors such as ingredients, skin type, and scent, you can choose the right body oil for your specific needs.
In addition to the oils mentioned in this guide, there are many other natural oils that can benefit your skin.
Some other popular options include grapeseed oil, argan oil, and marula oil.
Experiment with different oils and find the ones that work best for you. Remember to always do a patch test before using any new product on your skin.
