Known generally as the skin barrier, the stratum corneum protects our skin and body from the external environment, germs and harmful toxins. It is constantly exposed to environmental stressors that can threaten the overall health of our skin, leading to inflammation, irritation and breakouts.

Living in a tropical country, we're blessed with high humidity. Nevertheless, there are times we wonder how we can keep our skin hydrated and plump. But hey, have you ever heard of facial oils?

 

 

 

 

 

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What are facial oils?
The underrated facial oils are beneficial skincare superstars that feel luxurious to the touch. It can provide favorable results for radiant, glowing skin.

Generally, oily skin does not look pleasing. However, Dr. Corey L. Hartman, founder of Skin Wellness Dermatology in Alabama, advises that face oils are perfectly safe since they are oil-based formulas designed to be used on the skin. It can offer many advantages for those seeking alternative methods of moisturizing their faces.

Facial oils are plant-based emollients that contain nutrients and fatty substances called lipids which soften dry, rough, flakey skin. As it provides deeper hydration beyond a simple moisturizer, these oils can help by forming a protective seal over the skin, supporting the stratum corneum. Its potent benefits can penetrate deep into the skin and reduce the opportunity for transepidermal water loss.

Facial oils not only moisturize the skin but also help to soothe irritation. It also has antioxidant effects, which depending on the active ingredients, may help to control bacteria and calm inflammation.

 

 

 

 

 

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Best local facial oils
Some believe that facial oil can lead to acne and breakouts. However, these conditions can be avoided. Anyone with acne-prone skin should exercise caution and buy facial oils that are non-comedogenic.

In contrast, normal skin can take almost everything, including comedogenic mineral oils, almond oil, cocoa butter, coconut oil, avocado oil, flaxseed oil, soybean oil and palm oil.

If you want to try facial oils that are locally made in Indonesia, you can check out these five:

• For extra hydration, try Klei & Clay: Rosanium Face Oil, formerly known as Soothe Face Oil (Rp 129,000, available on kleiandclay.com, Tokopedia, and Shopee)
• To soothe dry and inflamed skin, try Bio Beauty Lab: Luxurious Facial Oil Serum (start from Rp 195,000, available on officialbiobeautylab.com, Sociolla, and Shopee)
• To enhance skin tone, try Purivera Botanicals: Fermented Red Serum Oil (Rp 135,000, available on JD.ID, Tokopedia, and Shopee)
• To ward off acne, try Haple: Grapeseed Oil (Rp 49,000, available on haple.co.id, Tokopedia, Shopee, and Sociolla)
• To boost rejuvenation, try Utama Spice: Rosehip Oil (Rp 190,300, available on utamaspicebali.com, Shopee, and Tokopedia)

 

 

 

 

 

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