The best face oils

The best face oils

Whether you are suffering from dehydrated skin, premature wrinkles or even oily skin, the right face oil can help you with a large range of skincare concerns and leave you with glowing, clear, rejuvenated skin. Although most people with oily skin are afraid to use face oils due to the fear of making their condition worse, this shouldn't happy if you choose the right oil for your skin type.

The right face oil can protect your skin from free radicals, prevent fine lines and treat your blemishes, but they all vary so that is why you need to choose the one that suits your skin type. When you choose an oil, you have to base your decision on a few conditions. Oils are packed with natural antioxidants and fatty acids, so they can keep your skin from aging prematurely.

Face oils have many benefits. While it takes a while to see the effects of moisturisers, when you use a face oil, you see instant results. They can also be used in many ways, such as a moisturiser, makeup touchups, as a makeup remover, a lip balm, frizz fighter and under eye cream.

Here are some of the best face oils in the market:

Votary Face oil is a rosy, light oil meant to be applied overnight. You only need to apply two drops and it is absorbed by the skin very quickly. You will feel your skin much more moisturised after only one application and there is no filmy residue on the skin at all. The blend of natural oils is perfect for dehydrated skin and is great for changing seasons and for protecting your skin from poor air quality that can leave your skin looking dull.

Another facial oil that is only suitable for the evening is the Blue Orchid face oil by Clarins. This product is so oily one drop will suffice to coat the skin, yet it is not too heavy so it gets absorbed fast. This is a great way to hydrate your skin quickly.

Seaberry Moisturising Face Oil by Fresh is also a night oil. Although it is thick, it spreads well so you might just need one or two drops for your whole face. This lightweight facial oil is rich in antioxidants. Packed with beneficial fatty acids and other repairing acids, this oil is particularly beneficial for dry skin. This is facil smells like lavender and it is quite fresh, the problem is that it takes too long to absorb.

If you enjoy the smell of roses on your skin, then Una Brennan's super facialist rose hydrate oil is the one for you. Although this oil is meant to be used overnight, you can also use it during the day under your foundation.

If you are looking for a facial oil that you can use night and day, opt for artemis hydroactive cellular face oil by Sunday Riley. Although it is thick, it does not feel heavy and its fruity and citrusy smell leaves your skin feeling fresh.

Packed with omegas and antioxidants, Pai's Rosehip BioRegenerate oil protects the skin from environmental stress and damage. The oil also leaves your skin moisturised and feeling fresh. This is a great oil to use before going to bed, but let absorb before you actually lie down to keep it from staining your pillowcase.

If you are looking for a face oil that suits combination skin types, opt for Turnaround Revitalizing Treatment Oil by Clinique. This is an all-rounder oil that is very nourishing for dry areas but not too heavy for the T-zone and other oily areas.

Packed with tea tree oil, clary sage oil, juniper berry oil and lavender oil, Riddle Botanicals' Relief serum is perfect to treat acne-prone skin. Although it is very moisturising, it doesn't leave your skin feeling greasy as it is lightweight. The serum smells so well that you will think you are at a spa.

Rich in vitamins A and E as well as omega fatty acids 6 and 0, Le Prunier Plum Beauty Oil is a beautifully silky oil that hydrates and soothes the skin without being too thick. As it is pure plum oil, the smells like plum syrup, strong and sweet.

What you need to know about Eczema

What you need to know about Eczema

Eczema symptoms vary from one sufferer to the other, but, in general, this skin condition manifests itself in the irritation of the outer layer of the skin.

What is Eczema?

The British Skin Foundation defines atopic eczema as “an inflammatory condition of the skin. Atopic is the term used to describe conditions such as eczema, asthma, seasonal rhinitis and hay fever, which often have a genetic basis. Eczema is the term used to describe changes in the upper layer of the skin that include redness, blistering, oozing, crusting, scaling, thickening and sometimes pigmentation (although not all of these changes will necessarily occur together).”

Dr Walayat Hussain, consultant dermatologist of Bupa Health Clinics, told Marie Claire UK, ‘Also referred to as “dermatitis”, eczema is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that can make your skin red, dry and itchy,' says Dr Hussain. ‘There are a number of different types, and the type you have determines which treatment options are best for you.'

If your skin gets easily irritated, itchy, you get rashes and it is so dry to the point that it cracks and bleeds, then it all points to eczema. The next step from here is to consult a medical specialist so they can confirm the diagnosis and prescribe the right treatment for your particular condition.

As atopic eczema affects the outer layer of the skin, it can appear anywhere on the body, from hands, arms, feet, legs, arms, torso, and even your face.

Types of eczema

Although atopic eczema is the most common one, there are as many types of eczemas as skin types and they all stem from different and they require their own customised treatment.

Seborrhoeic eczema is a kind a skin inflammation visible as yellowish, oily, scaly patches of skin that appear most commonly on the face and scalp but it can also affect other parts of the body.

Contact eczema (also known as contact dermatitis) is manifested as redness, itching and burning that appear upon the skin getting in contact with an allergen such as an acid or cleaning agent. Unlike other allergies that manifest themselves after exposure, contact eczema is developed over time; your skin becomes sensitive to an allergen. This type of eczema usually manifested on your hands, so try to pay attention to what it is that is causing that reaction and avoid it at all costs. Also see your General Practitioner so he can refer you to a Dermatologist who will be perform an allergy test to determine what is affecting your skin.

Dishydrotic eczema (also known as pompholyx) shows as tiny, fluid-filled blisters on your hands and feet. These blisters are extremely itchy and they might burst during the healing process, becoming more sore.

Atopic eczema is often found in people who also suffer from asthma, hayfever and allergies. ‘This can be genetic and you may notice your skin gets irritated on the face, in front of the elbows and behind the knees,' Dr Hussain told Marie Claire. ‘It usually flares up if you have allergies and come into contact with soaps, detergents or other types of chemicals.

‘Although there is no cure for atopic eczema, your GP or dermatologist may prescribe you with a specific type of moisturiser known as an emollient. These work by restoring water and oils to your skin to soothe and hydrate it, as well as helping to repair the damaged skin.'

Treating atopic eczema

Although there is no permanent cure for atopic eczema, adequate treatment can help to relieve the symptoms and many cases improve over time. These treatments include self care techniques, such as reducing scratching and avoiding triggers emollients and moisturising treatments). You can also use topical corticosteroids to minimise swelling, redness and itching during flare-ups. Topical steroid creams, such as hydrocortisone, eumovate and betnovate, help with the itching, as they keep the cells from producing chemicals that flare up the skin as a reaction to the allergen.

Diet and eczema

What you eat can affect your skin condition since you might have an allergic reaction to it. “Although changes in your diet can't cure your eczema, in some case it may help alleviate the symptoms and minimise flare ups,” Dr Hussain told Marie Claire. This is because some types of eczema are rooted in allergic reactions, and allergy to food is the most common type of allergy.

Lactic and glycolic acid for the skin

Lactic and glycolic acid for the skin

While both glycolic acid and lactic acid are alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) used as chemical exfoliants and peels, they don't have the same effect on the skin. For instance, lactic acid better for sensitive complexions are it causes less irritation and is more mosturinstising to the skin than glycolic acid. As it is derived from milk, lactic acids are mild and the chance of an allergy is minor. Therefore, this kind of peel if the best for those who have never had a peel before.

When the concentration of the formula is more than 30%, a lactic acid peel becomes a chemical exfoliant that dissolves dead skin cells from the top layers of skin. They are mainly used for people with pigmentation conditions including melasma, lentigo or freckles. They can also reduce the acne scars. Meanwhile, glycolic acid exfoliates the surface layer of your skin by breaking down the bonds that hold dead skin cells together. It also dissolves sebum, which is the oil produced by your skin. With this dual effect, this acid can be used on both dry and oily skin types.

While salicylic acid penetrates deep into your pores, AHA sloughs off dead skin cells, so your skin will look more radiant and smooth. While AHA peels' strength from one to the other, Kate Somerville's Exfolikate Treatment sloughs all the dead skin cells from your face, for glowing skin. You do have to use it frequently to see long-lasting results. Peels are not a one time thing but it should a habit to do it regularly. This will help you recapture a youthful glow. You just need to watch out for irritation. Always test it first to make sure your skin is not too sensitive.

Lactic acid serum and cream

There are some serums and creams that are enriched with AHA formula, like Sunday Riley's Good Genes serum which you can use overnight and it will smooth out your skin. One of the most popular lactic acid serums is Kate Somerville Exfolikate Intensive treatment. This package is very strong, so after only one use you will see your face glowing and your skin, smoother.

Try Sunday Riley's Good Genes Treatment, an at-home mask made out of organic oatmeal and organic yoghurt. This combination with the acid and the oatmeal scrub leaves your skin feeling smooth.

Glycolic Acid toner

Derived from sugarcane, glycolic acid can remove dead skin cells, smooth skin texture and prevent wrinkles. That is why this natural exfoliator is a particularly ideal ingredient in facial toner. It can also help acneic skin, since the AHA has greater penetration capabilities and it keeps pores clear, preventing them from clogging.

Apply the toner after cleansing your face, and it will remove excess makeup, dirt and impurities, and will also balance the pH levels in the skin.

Although it might irritate your face at first, glycolic acid moisturises your skin as it increases your skin ability to bind water. If your skin is hydrated, the signs of ageing will be reduced, such as wrinkles and fine lines, as well as excessive dryness.

Drunk Elephant Glycolic Night Serum is worth a try, even though it is expensive. This product haAlpha-Hs a light gel-like texture and is formulated at pH3.8-4.0. Another product worth a try is Alpha-H Liquid Gold, which is the most popular liquid exfoliant on the market. Apart from glycolic acid, it contains licorice which is an excellent anti-inflammatory agent. Although it might tingle slightly when you apply it, that only means that it is working. You'll feel your skill soft after a few minutes.

If you are looking for a mast that sloughs away dead skin cells, then you need to buy Ren Glycolactic Radiance Renewal Mask. Then there is of course a product by Kate Somerville. This is Kate Somerville Exfolikate Cleanse which is a fruity concoction that contains pumpkin, papaya and pineapple.

Salicylic Acid

Salicylic acid is a great way to combat acne. "Salicylic acid has the ability to exfoliate, neutralize the bacteria that causes breakouts, and reduce overall inflammation" Jamé Heskett, MD, founder of The Wellpath in New York City told InStyle. It works in many forms, you can use it in your face wash, your spot treatment, or mixed into your concealer for both healing and coverage. Her favourite is Miracle Skin Transformer Acne Control Tinted Treatment Lotion. You can find it in five beautiful shades.

Meghan Markle - favourite beauty products

Meghan Markle - favourite beauty products

Meghan Markle might be all over the news headlines these days ever since she got engaged to Prince Harry, but long before that the American actress had already to captivate hearts and souls with her brains, talent, and most astonishing beauty. We have all admired her performance in the USA legal drama Suits, where Meghan plays Rachel Zane, a fascinating woman that is not only beautiful and sexy but also boasts wit and intelligence. Although not everyone has been graced by genres the way Meghan has, she has kindly shared some of her favourite beauty products, you can also look like a princess-to-be.

Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution Lipstick in Very Victoria

This is Meghan's favourite lipstick. Inspired by Victoria Beckham, the lipstick was devised by British beauty guru Charlotte Tilbury. After wearing this lipstick for the royal engagement photocall, this matte, dusty rose-tinted nue became increasingly popular. This lipstick is the perfect balance of a pink tone and brown nude, while the matte finish gives it a modern touch.

Fresh Sugar Advanced Therapy Lip Treatment with SPF 15

She told Beauty Banter that the Fresh Sugar Advanced Therapy Lip Treatment with SPF 15 is one of the products she can't live without. “I have searched high and low and tried every kind of lip balm but this is the very best. Soft, kissable, buttery lips. I swear by it.”

Laura Mercier Illuminating Foundation Primer

Even with the pressure of marrying into royalty and her strenuous work, Meghan Markle manages to keep her skin radiant and glowing. She was that illuminating tone about her that defines her. Despite working hard, she always looks fresh and here is how she manages that look.

“I don't wear foundation unless I'm filming so this is what I put on every day after moisturiser to give my skin a dewy glow. It's not sparkly, it's try to its name… ‘Illuminating,'” Meghan Markle told Beauty Banter. You can find the primer in two shades, either bronze to get a tanning look or a pinkish pearlescent.

Laura Mercier's Radiance Foundation Primer is a lightweight creamy gel that reduces the look of imperfections and freshens up the makeup.

Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk Foundations

Meghan Markle has confessed she is a fan of this luminous, silky fluid foundation, and she has one specific foundation rule she is loyal to. “Every time I'd do her make-up, she'd say ‘Can we just make sure my freckles are peeking through? I don't want a ton of foundation,'” her former MUA Lydia Sellers told Refinery 29.

Actually, Meghan has commented on how magazines always airbrush out her freckles and whiten her skin tone. She has commented that she'd rather they didn't because “a face without freckles is a night without stars.”

Fitted with micro fil technology, this oil-free foundation captures the glow of perfect looking skin. Its lightweight and smooth texture softly smoothes out the face tones all day and it gives the skin a healthy glow. Celebrities such as Kim Kardashian, Cate Blanchett and Rashida Jones have admitted they wear this foundation.

Nivea Skin Firming Hydration Body Lotion

This cream is proven to tighten and soften the surface of skin and you can see the results in only two weeks. Hydra IQ technology hydrates the skin for more than 24 hours.

Meghan Markle told Beauty Banter: “I use this religiously. It's honestly my favourite lotion on the market, it's so affordable, and makes my skin look and feel amazing. I would buy a case of this at a time if I could find it.”

Hair product

“There are two lines I use religiously,” she told Beauty Banter. “Kerastase (masquintense & the oleo relax line) and Wella, which has a hair oil that I am obsessed with. It smells like vacation and makes your hair slippery and touchable. I love this stuff! It also doubles as a pretty amazing body oil post bath.”

Beauty Secret

Meghan Markle also shared her beauty secret with Beauty Banter. “Drink lots of water, as we all know. But I also learned to add the smallest touch of shimmer to the inner corner of the eye after they're lined. I use Chanel Cassis Eyeliner on my upper lash line and water line, and the touch of shimmer powder adds a brightness and sparkle. Even if I have no makeup on, I am likely to apply concealer and a bit of shimmer in the corners of my eye,” she said.