Debunking the Oil Myth

At some point, years ago, applying oil to our face became a beauty no-no. We were led to believe that using oil would clog pores, cause breakouts, and make our skin appear extra oily. In our quest for shine-free beauty, we took these claims at face value and did not dare use anything but oil-free products. Now, good oils are no longer something to avoid. It is similar to fat in our diet. While it was once taboo, it was discovered that good fats - like those from avocados and coconuts - are in fact beneficial to our health. Now, companies (like us!) are formulating products with beneficial plant-based oils, because, as it turns out, oils may just be beauty’s best-kept secret.

It should be noted that while we encourage the use of products made with plant-based oils for their ability to moisturize, protect, and heal, not all oils should be used so enthusiastically. Mineral Oil, for example, is not a plant based oil, but rather a petroleum byproduct and a known carcinogen. Also, using an oil as a stand alone product (instead of using it as part of a formulation) can sometime be too heavy for the skin and cause pores to clog. While Shea Butter, Argan Oil, and Coconut Oil are getting great buzz as standalone products, we recommend that you watch your skin carefully for any signs of product build up.

Today we put some oil myths to rest, while proving just how beneficial plant-based oils can be:

MYTH #1:  Oil clogs pores and causes breakouts. Oils are able to quickly and efficiently penetrate the skin and often times carry beneficial ingredients, like antioxidants and vitamins, with them. This is great news for pores! Also, some oils, like Coconut Oil, have antimicrobial properties that work to eliminate bacteria threatening to burrow into pores causing breakouts.

MYTH #2:  Oil Makes Skin Even Oilier. Most plant-based oils absorb quickly into the skin and do not add to the burden of already oily skin. In fact, there are oils, like Argan and Jojoba Oils, which have natural sebum regulating actions that work to balance the skin’s oil production.

MYTH #3:  Oil is not good for sensitive skin. Many plant-based oils, like Tamanu Oil, have inherent anti-inflammatory properties. If your skin does negatively react to an ingredient, certain oils can calm skin and minimize inflammation. Also, traditional Polynesian cultures used Tamanu Oil to protect sensitive skin from sunburn, high humidity, and harsh ocean winds.

MYTH #4:  Oil is not beneficial for the skin. Generally speaking, plant-based oils have excellent antioxidant properties, making them instrumental in the fight against free radicals and the signs of aging. Some oils, like Sea Buckthorn and Avocado Oil, can be superb sources of moisture. This will help keep skin elastic, healthy, and youthful.

Plant-based oils in their organic form (because the non-organic allternative could be sprayed with pesticides) are not just beneficial to most skin types, but they feel good, too. Products with added face and body friendly oils leave skin soft and smooth, while the texture and even the aroma can help calm and relax. Don't believe us? Give our B Quenched Facial Oil a try!

See our ingredient page for more of the fantastic and beneficial oils that are used in Sally B's products.