Disclaimer: This post will not include any mention of coconut oil. Relieved? We get it – as much as we love coconut oil, it's gotten a lot of play lately. That’s why we decided to share some of our favorite, under-the-radar, 100% natural face oils.
Why face oils? Once the enemy of skincare ingredients (hello, "oil-free"), oil is now experiencing a much-deserved redemption. This is because organic, natural oils are some of the most nutrient dense and antioxidant-rich elements on earth. They're also loaded in good fats and vitamins, both things which your skin absolutely loves -- and needs -- to function optimally.
But enough from us -- let's dive into the rundown!
Broccoli Seed Oil
- What it is: It is what it sounds like: Oil derived from broccoli! More specifically, broccoli seed oil is extracted from the tiny seeds of broccoli sprouts. (Crazy, right?)
- Why you should care: The health benefits of broccoli have long been heralded, but it's only recently that the oil derived from this go-to veggie has gained attention. It's been touted as the next big anti-aging oil, thanks to its super potent antioxidant activity. It's also filled with Vitamin A, aka natural retinol, which is lauded for its anti-aging properties. Furthermore, it's filled with essential fatty acids, which can act as potent moisturizing agents when applied topically. Lastly, it closely mimics chemical silicone such as dimethicone, making it a healthy and all-natural alternative.
- Where to find it: Marie Veronique Barrier Restore Serum
Rosehip Seed Oil
- What it is: Rosehip seed oil is an oil harvested from the seeds that grow on rose bushes, specifically the Rosa moschata variety. Fancy, huh?
- Why you should care: Light, delicate, and fast-absorbing, rosehip seed oil is kind of like the discreet, grand dame of face oils. When extracted using a cold-press process (which, incidentally, is something you should always look for when buying oils for both skincare and food), it contains crazy-high levels of antioxidants and essential fatty acids. It’s particularly high in Vitamin A and Vitamin C; the former contains super small molecules that are able to deeply penetrate and heal the skin. FYI, because it’s so fragile, you’ll need to take care to store this oil in a cool, dark place.
- Where to find it: Mountain Rose Herbs Rosehip Seed Oil
Sea Buckthorn Oil
- What it is: An oil extracted from the seeds and berries of the sea buckthorn plant, which is a hearty, mountain-indigenous shrub. (Yep, it’s not from the ocean!)
- Why you should care: This seriously potent oil has long been used in folk cultures to treat infections, heal wounds, and even help with digestion. It’s loaded in beta carotene, omega-3s, the rare omega-7, Vitamin C, and Vitamin E, all of which assist in doing things like fighting free radicals, accelerating collagen production, and protecting the skin. It’s so potent that using it neat can be a lot for your skin, which is why we recommend using it in a blended formula.
- Where to find it: Grown Alchemist Antioxidant Facial Oil
Evening Primrose Oil
- What it is: An oil derived from the seeds of the primrose flower, a wildflower native to eastern and central North America.
- Why you should care: Evening primrose oil is another lighter, easily absorbed oil that is loaded in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. It's also a purported hormone balancer and a fantastic anti-inflammatory agent, which makes it the perfect oil for addressing skin flare-ups around that time of the month. Like rosehip seed oil, this is very fragile oil and is best kept refrigerated.
- Where to find it: Mountain Rose Herbs Evening Primrose Oil