This is the year of Cleopatra - says The Wall Street Journal this week. She is the subject of an acclaimed new biography and Angelina Jolie is soon to step into her gladiator sandals and scanty tunic. We've all heard that the legendary beauty bathed in milk to keep her skin soft (the benefits of lactic acid), however her other skin secret—massaging her face in olive oil—has proven equally effective. So is 'oil is the new face cream'? Should you really toss your moisturiser in favour of deeply hydrating nectars? According to Francesca Fusco, assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York, "People shy away from using oils on the face, assuming they are greasy and pore-clogging, but this is not the case with essential oils, which are a worthy aromatic alternative to standard moisturizing creams." I completely agree: natural face oils are not the culprit behind skincare problems; it's a combination of dirt, dead skin cells, build up, bacteria and hormones.
When using face oils, massage works to help in cell rejuvenation and strengthen that illusive, fast-disappearing key to youth and firmness: collagen. Oil saturates the skin, replenishing lost moisture and creating a barrier that locks hydration in and the cold winter wind out. Face oils are great for dry skin, don’t clog pores and can even help rebalance sebum production on oil and combination skin.
If you don't want to use plain olive oil and rely upon scientifically formulated toxin-free products, look no further than these six high-performing oils.
Rodin Olio Lusso (£90): A refined luxury and effective blend of 11 oils, including evening primrose to increase circulation and rose hip for its potent dose of vitamin C.
Nude Replenishing Oil (£44): Rich in omegas 3, 6, 7 and 9, it's 100% natural and 100% active and works thanks to the antioxidant power of raspberries and cranberries.
Trilogy Rosehip Oil (£28): Truly exceptional abd clinically shown to minimise the appearance of wrinkles (up to 23%), increase skin smoothness (up to 21%) and improve skin moisture (up to 44%).
Pinks Boutique Antiageing Serum (£33): A recent addition to our collection, this oil scientifically proven to reduce the signs of aging and sun damage with super-charged rosehip.
Antipodes Joyous Night Replenish Serum (£36.99): Restores natural collagen and delivers natural radiance. With Himalayan goji delivers up to 19 amino acids to replenish protein at a cellular level.
Ananne Nectar Cutis Sensitive Skin (£128): Our favourite for sensitive skin. Its advanced formula firms, calms and provides extra protection to sensitive skin and supports deep skin regeneration.
These natural / organic face oils are available at naturisimo.