Face oils have been gaining popularity in recent years, with a range of products and different types of oils on the market. It can be confusing to know which face oil you should be using and when – after all, for a long time oil-free skincare was said to be best for your skin. Now that this myth has been busted, it’s hard to figure out which step of your skincare routine a face oil should slot into and which type is best. We’ve got a quick breakdown for you!

More than one type of oil

It’s important to distinguish which type of oil should be used when. Some people opt to use a face oil during the cleansing step of their routine as part of a double cleanse, also known as an oil cleanse. Cleansing face oils are a great first step at removing make up without stripping moisture from your skin. Using a small amount of face oil, a little bit of warm water and a damp washcloth, you can gently wash off the day’s impurities from your face as the first part of your cleansing. Followed with a complementary cleanser that’s not too abrasive, your skin will have cleaner pores once the double cleanse works to remove dead skin, makeup and other nasties.

The best for last

Face oil can also be used as the last step in your skincare routine. Once you’ve properly cleansed, exfoliated and moisturised your skin, you can apply a face oil to reinforce the moisture barrier. Face oil is the thickest product in your skincare routine, which is why it should go last. Using it before a water-based product such as a serum means that the face oil barrier will prevent the serum from working its hydrating magic! Make sure you’re letting all your other skincare products dry completely before gently patting on a face oil on, or blending it in using upwards motions, and remember that a facial oil can be used once or twice a day, depending on your skincare needs.

A one, two punch

With face oils working to preserve the moisture in your skin in two ways – by softening and smoothing the outer layer of the skin, and serving as a protective seal on the surface of the skin to prevent water loss – you’ll see nothing but amazing benefits for your skin once you start using it consistently. Whether your skin is dry, prone to eczema or acne, or just in need of a pick-me-up, incorporating a face oil into your regular skincare routine will get your skin glowing in no time!