The Big Benefits of Using Organic Oils

Regularly using a facial oil can be beneficial for all skin types – even oily skin! A high-quality oil can lend skin a helping for moisture retention, enhanced softness and, believe it or not, oil production.

But with the popularity of facial oils rising, there’s more discussion surrounding organic certification. Traditionally, the discussion on organic oils centered around the food on your dinner plate; now it’s especially important to extend the conversation to skin care, since these sumptuous oils are going on your face. Some of your most delicate skin resides there!

Why should you use an organic oil over a non-organic one? Most importantly, what oils should you avoid for the best results? Read on to find out!

For an oil to be Certified Organic, the oil must be certified by a third party to be free of conventional pesticides and other byproducts. This implies that the farmers who grew the plants for the oil didn’t use pesticides or artificial agents.

Why should you opt for organic oil whenever possible? The overarching benefit is that organic is eco-conscious. Organic farming practices help restore soil vitality and prevent harmful chemicals from entering water supplies, like streams. The use of conventional pesticides can lead to decreasing wildlife diversity and populations, too.

Perhaps most importantly, research suggests that organic farming releases less greenhouse gases and is more energy-efficient than conventional farming.

The bottom line: using organic oil is better for our health and our earth.

But there’s a caveat! There are still non-organic oils that are clean; many producers grow plants without pesticides, but simply can’t afford organic certification. Some robust and pest-resistant plants (think olive trees) normally don’t even need help from pesticides, rendering certification unnecessary. But, being Certified Organic gives you a third-party guarantee that your oils don’t have any unnecessary chemicals or additives.

On that note, our Multi-Vitamin + Antioxidants Facial Oil is ripe with organic oils, including jojoba, rose hip, green tea, and sea buckthorn oil! If you’re looking for a multi-tasking oil, our organic Argan Oil is stellar for your face, body, and hair.

Essential oils generally need to be diluted with a carrier oil to avoid harsh side effects, but when you’re using a pure plant oil on your face, beware of diluted or ‘cut’ oils. Similar to grocery store oils, disreputable brands can mix an organic oil with cheaper, lower-quality ones. These lower-quality oils won’t have the same nutrient levels as organic ones – meaning your skin won’t reap the benefits.

To combat this, choose a brand that’s USDA Certified Organic or transparent about farming practices. Check the ingredient list to ensure that there are only organic oils (and no refined, low-quality ones). Make sure that the product isn’t diluted with filler ingredients, either. Aside from a natural preservative, your oil doesn’t need anything else to function!

While oils are great for promoting supple skin, certain kinds are better for your face or body.

Some heavier oils can be comedogenic if you have pores that clog easily – usually those higher in oleic acids (think avocado and marula oils). Oily or acne-prone skin types can opt to use these on the body instead. What these skin types can use are non-comedogenic oils with higher levels of linoleic acid; rosehip seed oil and grape seed oil are a few popular options.

Regardless of skin type, if your skin is sensitive, an organic oil for your face and body could be a safer bet. Since there are fewer harmful chemicals or potential byproducts, you’re less likely to have a reaction. Try organic jojoba oil first – it mimics your skin’s natural sebum structure and helps restore your moisture barrier.