Choosing An Affordable Facial Oil
Facial oils are like the new big thing in the group chat, at least in the skincare group chats. With so many people looking for a simple way to nourish and hydrate their skin incorporating facial oils has become the new thing, the new normal. But, if this whole world of facial oils is new to you, all the options can be a bit overwhelming, understandably so. It can be challenging to find the best facial oil for you that isn’t going to completely empty out your wallet. Let’s dive into how to choose affordable facial oils that have been crafted with high-quality ingredients because you and your skin deserve the best.
How to choose
Determine your skin type and needs
The first step in choosing a facial oil is to determine your skin type and any specific needs or concerns you have for your skin. Different facial oils are formulated to address different skin concerns, so it’s important to know what you’re looking for and identify what you want. Less wrinkles? More hydration? A deep glow that seems to come from within?
Some more normal skincare goals focus more on what the skin actually needs according to your skin type. If you have dry or sensitive skin, you may want to look for facial oils that are rich in nourishing ingredients such as jojoba oil or argan oil. On the other hand, if you have oily or acne-prone skin, you should lean more into facial oils that are lightweight and non-comedogenic, so they won’t clog up your pores.
Consider the ingredients
Once you’ve determined your skin type and the needs or wants for your skin, it’s time to dive a little deeper and consider the ingredients. These ingredients are the key to achieving those skin goals you have. Some key ingredients to look for include:
Essential fatty acids: These crazy little molecules help to nourish and moisturize the skin, and can include ingredients like linoleic acid and oleic acid.
Antioxidants: These very popular compounds protect the skin from environmental stressors, look for vitamin E and vitamin C on the backs of your products.
Plant oils: These vegan-derived extracts provide deeply penetrating hydration and nourishment to the skin and include ingredients like jojoba oil, argan oil, and avocado oil.
Read reviews and do your research
In this incredible age of the internet, we are lucky enough to have access to hundreds (sometimes even thousands) or at least, like, five people’s opinions on literally anything, including products. Before buying anything, take advantage of these reviews and actually read them, or at least give them a good skim.
If you’re not finding all the information you’re looking for in the reviews, you can also check out the brand’s website or do a quick Google search and investigate deeper into a brand’s ethics and sourcing. Giving you a better understanding of what you’re putting on your skin and if your values align with the brand (think animal testing practices). And as always, if you have a strong opinion or a mild opinion, or just any opinion on a product, take a few seconds and leave a review for the next person who comes along.
Look for budget-friendly options
While it’s true that some facial oils can be on the pricier side, you don’t have to dish out the ben franklins to get a luxury facial oil. If you know where and how to look, there are loads of affordable options out there. The best facial oils and the ones you are going to want to put on your face are made with the highest-quality, natural ingredients, this should first and foremost be your priority.
You don’t have to commit to spending a ton on a facial oil if you’re just starting out, consider purchasing facial oils in bulk or opting for smaller sizes until you find a product that you and your skin loves. This can help you save money in the long run while still ensuring your skin soaks up all the benefits of the oil.
Don’t be afraid to try out different brands and products
Skincare at its core is a trial and error and revising process. It’s crucial to remember that everyone’s skin is different, and what works for one person may not work for another, so don’t get too disappointed if your best friend’s holy grail facial oil makes your skin break out. Try out a wide variety of different brands to start and keep trying them until you find one that feels like it’s been formulated just for you. You may need to experiment with a few different options before finding the perfect facial oil to add to your skincare routine.
Here are a few things to avoid when shopping for affordable facial oils:
Ingredient lists with lots of fillers: Some facial oils may contain a long list of ingredients, including fillers and additives that serve no purpose in the formation, and could even contribute to skin irritation, avoid these products and opt for ones with shorter, more focused ingredient lists.
Artificial fragrances and colors: Some facial oils may contain artificial fragrances and colors, both of which can be irritating to the skin, especially for those with sensitive or already inflamed skin, avoid products that are formulated with artificial fragrances and colors and opt for products that are made with natural ingredients or essential oils.
Oils that are overly greasy or heavy: Some facial oils may be too greasy or heavy for certain skin types leading to clogged pores and breakouts, to be safe, choose more lightweight, non-greasy oils for a better chance of success.
Oils that contain ingredients that may be irritating: In general, skincare products with alcohol, sulfates, and fragrances should be avoided at all costs, these ingredients are extremely unnecessary in formulations and can wreak havoc on the ecosystem of your skin.
