Summer is the season of sunshine, beach days, and outdoor adventures. But it’s also a time when our skin can suffer from dehydration, exposure to UV rays, and heat-induced irritation. As we embrace the warmth, it’s crucial to give our skin the care it deserves. Natural oils are a fantastic way to restore hydration and keep your skin looking and feeling its best. In this article, Dr. Geetika Mittal Gupta, founder Isaac Luxe and Dr.G – The Skincare Specialist—explore four natural oils that can rejuvenate your skin during the summer months and explain their unique benefits.
1. Jojoba Oil
Jojoba oil is a popular natural oil in skincare due to its lightweight texture and similarity to the skin’s natural sebum. This characteristic makes it suitable for all skin types, even those with oily or acne-prone skin. Jojoba oil hydrates without leaving a greasy residue, allowing your skin to breathe while providing long-lasting moisture. During the summer, when sweat and sunscreen can clog pores, jojoba oil helps maintain a healthy balance. It can also soothe sunburn and reduce redness, making it an ideal post-sun treatment.
2. Palm Oil
Palm oil, derived from the fruit of the palm tree, is a versatile ingredient in skincare that offers rich hydration. Its high content of fatty acids, including palmitic acid and oleic acid, makes it an excellent emollient, providing deep moisture and helping to create a protective barrier on the skin. This barrier helps to retain moisture and keep your skin soft and supple, even in hot, dry conditions.
Palm oil also contains vitamin E, a potent antioxidant that helps combat free radicals caused by UV exposure. This antioxidant property makes palm oil a great addition to summer skincare, helping to protect the skin from environmental stressors and promoting a healthy complexion. When selecting products containing palm oil, opt for those with RSPO (Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil) and MSPO (Malaysian Sustainable Palm Oil) certification to ensure you’re choosing sustainably sourced ingredients.
3. Argan Oil
Argan oil, often referred to as “liquid gold,” is derived from the nuts of the argan tree, native to Morocco. Rich in essential fatty acids and antioxidants, argan oil deeply moisturises the skin while providing anti-ageing benefits. It can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, which can be exacerbated by sun exposure.
Argan oil is lightweight and absorbs quickly, making it perfect for summer skincare routines. Its anti-inflammatory properties can also calm irritated skin, providing relief after a long day in the sun.
4. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is a favourite among skincare enthusiasts for its hydrating and antimicrobial properties. It is rich in lauric acid, which can help combat bacteria and fungi, reducing the risk of skin infections. This is especially beneficial in the summer, when increased sweating can lead to breakouts or other skin irritations.
Coconut oil’s deep moisturising effect makes it an excellent choice for treating dry or flaky skin. It can be used as an all-over body moisturiser, leaving your skin smooth and nourished. However, those with acne-prone skin should use coconut oil with caution, as it can be comedogenic for moisturising.
As you embrace summer’s warmth and sunshine, remember that your skin needs extra care to stay hydrated and healthy. Natural oils like palm oil, jojoba oil, argan oil, and coconut oil can play a significant role in maintaining your skin’s moisture and protecting it from environmental stressors. When selecting products with palm oil, prioritise sustainability by looking for RSPO certification. By incorporating these oils into your skincare routine, you’ll be ready to enjoy a radiant summer glow.
