The line between having a glow and looking greasy is sometimes very fine. I prefer a healthy glow to a matte finish. So, pressing a drop or two of the Nichole Avonie Rejuvenating Face Elixir into my skin before makeup application and using it as another step in my skincare routine are no-brainers. While this is second nature for me, I recognize that many people are oil phobic or may not fully understand how skin can benefit from oils. Let's talk a little about face oils in general and the Nichole Avonie Glow Rejuvenating Elixir in particular.
How Do Oils Work on the Skin?
From a skincare product perspective, we often focus on the epidermis and, more precisely, the stratum corneum, the outermost layer of the skin. Oils are emollients; they create a smooth surface on the skin by filling and flatting the spaces between skin cells so the skin can have a somewhat smooth appearance. Some heavier oils (like castor oil and avocado) also act as occlusives -- forming a protective barrier on the skin surface. The emollience and occlusivity of oils help prevent transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and improve moisture retention. The properties in each oil determine how that oil works on your skin, beyond the superficial or surface "oily" glow and barrier protection.
Our Skin's Natural Oils
The skin is the largest organ of the body, with a primary function of protecting the body. Our skin naturally produces sebum. Sebum is a group of various components — triglycerides, fatty acid wax esters, squalene, cholesterol esters, cholesterol, and more. Sebum acts as a lubricant against friction and helps us be waterproof.
Research shows that most oils only work on the surface level of the skin. However, oils have antioxidant, antiviral, and antimicrobial properties, promote wound healing, reduce inflammation, and more. The chemical composition of the face oil determines the effect it will have on your skin. Like the oils naturally found in our skin, plant oils contain triglycerides, fatty acids, tocopherols, squalene, and more. Face oils generally consist of a mix of carrier oils (fixed oils), sometimes mixed with essential oils and other fat-soluble ingredients such as squalane and Vitamin E.
What Should You Look for in Face Oils?
The most important factor when shopping for face oils is to look for cold-pressed plant oils. They have more nutritional properties. You may also want to check out the oils comedogenic rating. Comedogenic rating basically tells you the likelihood of a substance in its pure form clogging your pores. (This is most helpful if you know the concentration of the ingredient in the product.) Another factor to consider is the chemical composition of the oil. For example, if you have oily acne-prone skin, you may want to start with lighter oils high in linoleic acid. According to some research, if you have skin prone to dermatitis and dryness, you may wish to avoid Olive Oil.
What's in the Nichole Avonie Rejuvenating Face Elixir?
The Rejuvenating Face Elixir is a mix of nine fixed cold-pressed plant oils with less than 1% essential oil. It is lightweight, made to lock in hydration, calm, smooth, and soothe the skin. At the same time, free-radical fighting antioxidants help to balance and protect the skin. It is well tolerated by most skin types.
Cannabis Sativa (Hemp) Oil: is easily absorbed into the skin to restore skin health and improve its texture and appearance. It is antioxidant-rich, regenerative, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory.
Vitis Vinifera (Grapeseed) Oil - Grapeseed oil absorbs quickly into the skin to deliver intense moisture without irritating skin. It doesn't leave an oily residue or clog pores. It has antioxidant, astringent, and antibacterial properties.
Carthamus tinctorius (Safflower) Oil - is rich in linoleic acid and well suited for oily acne-prone skin. It is also a good source of Vitamin E, an antioxidant that protects the skin from free radicals.
Cucurbita pepo L(Pumpkin Seed) Oil - is rich in Vitamins A, B, D & E, minerals, and proteins. It s rich in omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids.
Nigella Sativa (Black Cumin) Oil - is a highly nourishing oil with high amounts of vitamins A, B, and C. It also contains potassium, copper, zinc, and selenium. Research shows it has a positive effect on reducing inflammation that causes psoriasis and eczema.
Argania Spinosa (Argan) Oil- is rich in vitamin E, essential fatty acids, carotenes, and antioxidants. It has soothing and anti-inflammatory properties and is reputed to help with skin elasticity.
Punica granatum (Pomegranate) Oil - is a nourishing anti-inflammatory and antioxidant oil. It is pretty lightweight and provides an excellent skin feel. It is also reputed to help cell regeneration.
Rubus Idaeus (Raspberry) Oil - Is high in Essential Fatty Acids and antioxidants. It provides some sun protection, though not enough for you to skin the sunscreen.
Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Oil - is high in essential fatty acids. It helps to calm inflammation and soothe skin.
Essential Oils Blend: For many people, the scent is vital in their skincare products. I added some essential oils to offer a unique aroma to the Elixir without being overpowering or irritating. The total percentage of essential oils is less than 1%. The blend includes Pelargonium Graveolens (Geranium) Oil, Origanum Majorana (Marjoram) Oil, Curcuma Longa (Tumeric) Oil, Citrus Bergamia (Bergamot) Oil and Boswellia Carterii (Frankincense) Oil. While a low percentage, I still highly recommend patch testing all products before use.
Net Net
Anyone can use a face oil. The Nichole Avonie Rejuvenating Face Elixir can be used by those with oily acne-prone skin, combination skin, normal skin, and moderately dry skin. It's a balanced formula with oils containing essential fatty acids, Vitamins, minerals, proteins, and more. It helps to nourish, soothe, and protect the skin from free radical damage.
Nichole Avonie Rejuvenating Face Elixir Usage Tips:
-
Mix a drop or two of Face Elixir into your favorite moisturizer and apply after cleansing, toning, and using your serum.
-
Warm a couple of the Rejuvenating Face Elixir in your hands and press into your skin after cleansing, toning, and applying serum and moisturizer. This routine is excellent for dry skin or for any skin type that wants a moisture boost.
-
Cleanse and pat dry face, apply water-based serum, warm a couple of drops of Rejuvenating Face Elixir in your palms, and gently press into your skin. This routine may be excellent for those with oilier skin types.
Always apply oils to damp skin.
Some Research:
Cinnamomum camphora Leaves Alleviate Allergic Skin Inflammatory Responses In Vitro and In Vivo
Anti-Inflammatory and Skin Barrier Repair Effects of Topical Application of Some Plant Oils
Characteristics of raspberry (Rubus idaeus L.) seed oil
A review on the therapeutic potential of Nigella sativa: A miracle herb
Lipid uptake and skin occlusion following topical application of oils on adult and infant skin
