your guide to oils

DRY SKIN

For dry skin, the richest and most occlusive oils are best. They help to keep skin hydrated by acting as a sealant and reducing water loss. Avocado, sesame, macadamia, walnut and coconut oils are filled with oleic acids and omega fatty acids, as well as good fats that help revitalize the skin. By losing less of its natural hydration, your skin will be plump, supple and less irritated.

TRY: SAHAJAN The Beauty Oil, $64, thedetoxmarket.ca.

COMBINATION SKIN

The secret for combo skin is to find an oil low in saturated fat to avoid highlighting the T-zone, but rich enough in omega fatty acids to soften the dry areas. For oilier skin, look for a light texture that penetrates the dermis quickly, and ingredients with antibacterial properties to prevent breakouts. Some good options include sea buckthorn, chia seed, sunflower and marula oils.

TRY: DRUNK ELEPHANT Virgin Marula Luxury Facial Oil, $95, sephora.ca.

SENSITIVE SKIN

If you have a reactive skin type it’s best to opt for the purest oil possible, since every ingredient added carries the risk of a reaction. Try to avoid essential oils and artificial fragrances, which are known irritants. Your best bets are argan, sweet almond and borage oils that contain the fatty acids necessary to strengthen the skin’s moisture barrier, as well as antioxidants that can help reduce any inflammation.

TRY: JOHN MASTERS ORGANICS 100% Argan Oil, $55, well.ca.

NORMAL SKIN

Even balanced skin can benefit from using oil—this skin type can profit from any oil, without the risk of clogged pores or irritation. The active ingredients in oils can multiply the benefits of your other skin-care products, too. Simply add two or three drops of apricot kernel, argan, prickly pear or camellia oil to your night moisturizer and apply.

TRY: YOUTH TO THE PEOPLE Superberry Hydrate + Glow Oil, $58, sephora.ca.

ACNE-PRONE SKIN

Dry or dehydrated skin will sometimes try to protect itself by overproducing sebum, leading to blockages and inflammation. If you’re dealing with breakouts, try an oil with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties to slow down sebum production while also promoting healing and reducing blemishes. Pumpkin seed, orange, myrrh and squalane oils are filled with antioxidants and vitamins that help prevent and repair skin lesions.

TRY: GUERLAIN Abeille Royale Youth Watery Oil, $129/30 ml, thebay.com.

OILY SKIN

Oil... on oil? It might seem counterintuitive, but applying an oil to oily skin can actually help balance natural oil production. Jojoba oil molecules are structurally similar to that of sebum, making the skin believe that it has enough, which then limits natural oil production. Other oils, such as grapeseed, have a natural astringent effect that mattifies the skin. Opt for light-textured oils like hemp or safflower that absorb quickly.

TRY: PIXI Overnight Retinol Oil, $34, shoppersdrugmart.ca.