It's about time we had a skincare update. Winter's dry atmosphere, harsh winds, cold temperatures and central heating are the enemies of hydration, meaning skin is often left lacklustre and uncomfortable. Thank goodness, then, for face oils – think of them as a (very necessary) fortress, there to help protect your skin from the elements.
A face oil can benefit every skin type, even those which are oily and blemish-prone. It might feel counter-intuitive to add more oil but it could be that your skin is actually dehydrated and overcompensating for the lack of moisture; treating it to a much-needed drink can really help.
Apply a few drops of oil post-cleansing and after serum – if you use one – by warming in your hands and pressing into the skin. Use alone or follow up with a moisturiser for an extra hit of hydration. (As a time-saver, you could even mix a few drops of oil into your moisturiser and apply in one big, skin-plumping go.)
Click through to find out which oils we'll be slathering on as the temperature drops.
Like a green salad for your face, this oil contains broccoli, flax seed and daikon radish, which are bursting with with antioxidants and omegas – exactly what you need in this harsh winter weather.
Elemis Superfood Facial Oil, £45, available at Elemis
For the ultimate in indulgence try an UMA oil. They are 100% organic and natural, with all of the ingredients harvested on the family estate in India – oils don't get purer than this. Rose oil, one of the main ingredients, retains moisture and helps to reduce redness.
UMA Ultimate Brightening Face Oil, £115, available at Cult Beauty
Dry, sensitive skins rejoice, Caudalie has got you covered. Jojoba oils, rosemary and grape (to name a few) work to soothe irritated skin and restore that coveted glow.
Caudalie Vinosource Overnight Recovery Oil, £26, available at Look Fantastic
Formulated with a blend of antioxidants to help moisturise and protect the skin, this oil is a solid choice for anyone looking to up their skincare ante.
Clinique Smart Treatment Oil, £36, available at Clinique
Sunday Riley's newest release contains 1.5% salicylic acid – a blemish-busting BHA (beta hydroxy acid) to increase cell turnover and help prevent breakouts. Ingredients like milk thistle and cucumber seed oil work to keep skin nourished.
Sunday Riley U.F.O Ultra-Clarifying Face Oil, £68, available at Space NK
The three hero ingredients in this are black cumin, camellia and rosehip seed oil, which are cold-pressed to keep their potency. Your skin will be left feeling moisturised and looking brighter – essential at this time of year.
The Body Shop Oils Of Life Intensely Revitalising Facial Oil, £28, available at The Body Shop
Try this for a replenishing face treatment that's suitable for most skin types. It gives a much-needed moisture boost, minus any feeling of greasiness.
Aesop Fabulous Face Oil, £39, available at Aesop
This face oil hasn't earned its cult status for nothing. Made from 100% pure plant extracts, it's perfect for revitalising and restoring radiance to moisture-depleted skin.
Clarins Blue Orchid Face Treatment Oil, £33, available at Clarins
Rosehip oil is famous for its healing properties, making this a brilliant all-rounder for replenishing skin. The process of cold-pressing means the quality is kept intact.
The Ordinary 100% Organic Cold-Pressed Rosehip Seed Oil, £9, available at Victoria Health
The antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of lavender make this a gentle remedy for those battling breakouts. Founder Annie Tevelin credits lavender with helping to get rid of her cystic acne.
SkinOwl Lavender Beauty Drops, £24, available at Cult Beauty
Apply this in the evening before moisturiser and you'll wake up to soft, hydrated skin thanks to the plant oils. For a full body experience try their Superskin Body Oils, £35.
Liz Earle Superskin Concentrate For Night, £60, available at Liz Earle
Made up of no less than nine natural oils, this really works. Primrose, argan and jojoba oils, for example, help protect the skin's moisture barrier, which is crucial for keeping skin fully hydrated.
MALIN + GOETZ Recovery Treatment Oil, £62, available at MALIN + GOETZ
This multi-use product contains plant and essential oils to nourish the skin, while the scent will make you feel almost instantly calmer.
Darphin The Revitalizing Oil, £25, available at Darphin
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