“Facial Oils? For MY skin? WHAT?!” Yes, that is right folks. Facial oils are here and they are here to stay. Facial oils actually have been around for decades, however, have become quite popular most recently as more and more people use them, see results from them and can’t live without them.

If used properly, face oils can help balance and hydrate skin, including those with oily, acneic and combination skin types. Yes, you read correctly, even oily and acneic skin can benefit tremendously from facial oils. These little miracle workers can strengthen, protect, stabilize and even regulate the overproduction of sebum (oil) leaving your skin perfectly hydrated and balanced. Here are a few tips to ensure you choose the right one for you, use it properly and see great results.

1. Ingredients are important. Stay away from anything that contains synthetic or pore clogging oils that some companies use to dilute their products, making them less effective. Steer clear from oils like mineral, castor, vegetable, soybean, wheat germ and even the beloved coconut oil. These products have been found to clog pores and hinder effectiveness. Look for oils that are 100% pure, plant based and free of any of the above fillers. Another great tip, is the smaller the ingredient list, the better!

2. Choosing the correct oil for your skin type is crucial. For drier skin types, oils like acai berry, almond, Argan, tomato seed and passion fruit are great options. For oily, acneic or combination skin types, lighter oils like Argan, jojoba, acai berry, tea tree, rosehip seed and avocado oil are great options.

3. Consider climate, season and environmental factors. If you live in a dry climate a heavier oil might be best versus using a lighter one for more humid climates. Seasons also play a big role. Fall and winter are typically harsh on the skin which can lead to dry or flakiness. A heavier oil will help hydrate. Using a lighter oil in the spring and may be your best bet.

4. A little goes a long way. All you need is a drop, maybe two. The oil should absorb quickly and not leave your skin looking oily. Dewy and hydrated is what we are going for here. Using too much won’t hurt, it just might make applying makeup a little tricky.

5. Apply it in the proper order. Ideally it should be: wash, tone, serum, oil, moisturize and if it’s daytime, don’t forget the SPF. If that seems a bit too much you can mix a little oil in with your moisturizer but don’t substitute it for moisturizer completely. Your skin still needs the long lasting benefits of a good moisturizer!

LEONA BAISLEY: Having been a licensed esthetician for over 8 years, Leona has worked for a variety of spas and wax only salons. She is passionate about skin care, waxing and education for both the professional and the client. She has over 4 years of wax training experience for large organizations and is in the beginning stages of creating her own education classes that will help licensed estheticians and cosmetologists grow their businesses and compete with the top professionals in the industry.