Breaking Down Facial Oil


The term ‘facial oil’ has become a trendy new feature on shelves and beauty bars everywhere, but what exactly is it? We are breaking down the ins and outs of facial oil, the benefits of facial oil, and how to use it. No matter what type of skin you have, you too can benefit from the incredible magic of facial oil.


What is Facial Oil?

Oils used for beauty have been around since the days of Cleopatra (more on the history of oils here), but along the way, they got a bad reputation, starting with mineral oil.  As science has progressed and we’ve begun to discover new ways to use these classic ingredients, our skin is once again glowing like a Queen. As the name implies, it is oil specifically refined to be used on the face. But for such a simplistic idea, it packs a punch that can fight all sorts of battles at once. Facial Oils are multi-taskers; they can do everything from sealing in moisture, to restoring the skin’s barrier, regulating sebum production to providing vital nutrients to the skin. 


Fun Fact: 3 Graces has named its facial oil “Facial BALM” because of what it can do for the skin: Boost and repair skins barrier, Antioxidants to combat free radicals, Lessons the look of fine lines and wrinkles, and Moisturizes and minimizes the effect of inflammation. This BALM truly does it all!


Because of the way our skin naturally produces oils and lipids, facial oils work naturally with your skin to prevent water loss, keeping your skin hydrated. This is especially important for mature or dull skin because facial oils contain ingredients like antioxidants that pass through the skin quickly, preventing water loss while keeping the skin plump. Antioxidants also boost collagen production and strengthen skin elasticity. As a bonus, it provides a protective layer from the daily elements. This is especially important during the colder months when the air is dryer and our skin needs that extra dose of moisture. Facial Oil will seal in a serum, smooth lines and sooth skin.


How to use Facial Oil

You may be asking yourself, can I use Oil if my face is (fill in the blank)? Facial Oils are safe for all skin types; the key to successfully integrating it into your beauty ritual is knowing what yours is. For example, blemish prone skin (i.e. acne, breakouts) should skip comedogenic oils such as coconut, soybean, palm, and flaxseed oil. These oils are heavier and rich which could lead to clogged pores. Try lighter, anti-inflammatory oils that will self-regulate such as hazelnut, jojoba, and perilla. Always choose natural, plant-based oils like Organic Squalane (defined here) and Organic Moringa Seed Oil instead of synthetic or mineral oils. 


Like most beauty ingredients, not all are created equal. For better quality facial oils, look for certified organic, raw, cold-and fresh-pressed and unrefined ingredients. An easy way to tell is to look for a rich hue, and a fresh or earthy fragrance. 


Because facial oil has so many benefits, it can also be used a variety of different ways. 

  • Add a few drops to your moisturizer. This is a great way to start introducing oil into your beauty ritual.
  • Use after a serum. This will seal in all the benefits of your serum while providing a protective barrier.
  • Apply before makeup. This pre-foundation magic helps makeup brushes glide across the skin for a seamless application.

What is the Difference Between Facial Oil and Facial Serum?

Here at 3 Graces Beauty we are known for the dynamic duo of the Restoring Facial Balm (our Facial Oil) and Revitalizing Facial Serum. While similar in nature, each has a specific purpose for your skin. 


Restoring Facial Balm: Moisture and Skin Barrier focused. The Moringa See Oil and Sea Lavender extract are:

  • Deeply nourishing
  • Seals in moisture, skin stays hydrated throughout the day and keeps makeup looking fresh 
  • It strengthens the skins natural barrier to not only keep the good stuff in but also the bad stuff out. 
  • Powerful antioxidant ingredients in the oils work to prevent and repair damage from free radicals.

Revitalizing Facial Serum: High concentrates of active ingredients to address skins tone and texture:

  • Hyperpigmentation
  • Fine lines
  • Loss of firmness and texture. 
  • Contains plant-powered, anti-aging icons like Kakadu Plum, Caviar Lime and Marine extracts.

Facial oil can be applied both in the morning and evening, depending on your skin type. In the morning, apply it as the last step pre-makeup. In the evening, use it at the end of your nighttime beauty ritual. Simply apply a small amount onto cleansed skin, avoiding the eye area. Then smooth over face and neck with your hands, gently pressing the facial oil into the skin.