If there’s one product your beauty routine could stand to benefit from, it would be a face oil. It may seem like a crazy thing to do given that the heat and humidity on this island constantly leave your face hot and shiny, but trust us when we say you need one.
Long hours spent in an air-conditioned environment along with excessive perspiration – inevitable in this weather – can leave your skin dry and dehydrated, causing it to feel taut and exaggerating fine lines.
Not only do oils lock in moisture, keep your skin hydrated and minimise the appearance of lines, they also help balance oily skin and prevent breakouts. Plus, these elixirs are a good way to block out pollutants, so it’s best to have one handy when the haze comes around. As long as you avoid mineral oils, you’re in the clear.
The best way to use oil is to massage it on to freshly cleaned skin that is regularly exfoliated so the oil can be absorbed better. Be sure to start with less – you can always add more. We’ve rounded up six oils that are weightless and perfect for use in this hot, humid weather.
SK-II Facial Treatment Oil ($205 for 50ml)
A mix of Pitera and six nourishing oils, this bi-phase formula is intensely hydrating and nourishing. Blended in an ideal ratio that boosts the properties of the oils and Pitera, the combination helps minimise the appearance of lines, brightens tone, smooths texture and is ideal for skin that is stressed due to over-exposure to the sun, air-conditioned environments or pollution. Massage it in after your toner or essence while your skin is still damp and follow with your serum and moisturiser. And don’t forget to pack it in your carry-on for soft and hydrated skin while flying.
Shu Uemura Skin Perfector ($98 for 30 ml)
Synonymous with cleansing oils, Shu Uemura now launches its Skin Perfector oil that doubles up as a makeup primer. Used overnight, essential oils along with lemon, green mandarin and peppermint promise plumped skin with a smoother, refined texture while a few drops worked in after your moisturiser infuse a soft, luminious glow and ensure your foundation glides on easily without looking cakey.
Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream All Over Miracle Oil ($53)
Yup, you read right. The Elizabeth Arden cult favourite is now available in an oil formulation. The latest iteration of the Eight Hour Cream is potent blend of grapeseed, avocado, sunflower seed, olive and Tsubaki oils that promise to keep skin hydrated and luminious for up to 12 hours. You can use it on your hair as well, to add shine and smooth frizzy locks.
Palmer’s Multi-Effect Perfecting Facial Oil ($23.90)
Anti-ageing treatments can often dry out the skin, but not this one. A cocktail of nine anti-ageing oils keeps skin firm and bouncy while retinol, reservatol and Vitamin C tackle fine lines, dullness and free radicals. Additionally, this lightweight oil is free of parabens, phthalates, sulphates and harsh dyes.
Kiehl’s Daily Reviving Concentrate ($80 for 30ml)
Created specifically to help skin defend itself from free radicals caused due to damage from UV rays and pollution on a daily basis, as well as stress and ageing, this is a mix of essential and botanical oils that strengthen the skin’s natural protective barrier, boost hydration and prevent penetration of environmental aggressors. Just two to three drops after your serum and before your moisturiser will ensure healthy, glowing skin throughout the day.
