I tested three face oils at all price points – budget option has sophisticated formula
I HAVE greasy, spot-prone skin, so the last thing you’d expect me to use in my routine is a face oil.
But there’s a special type created especially for people like me, and it is perfect for keeping dry winter skin at bay.
This week, I put three non-comedogenic oil to the test..
Budget
Byoma Hydrating Recovery Oil, £14 for 30ml, spacenk.com: Without a doubt, Byoma is one of the best affordable skincare brands in the game right now.
Their formulas are sophisticated, the packaging clever, and they take their role of educating consumers seriously – so when they say this oil is suitable for those with acne, I trust them.
The texture was thicker than I expected, so two drops were more than enough for my whole face.
It’s definitely hydrating, but I felt like it sat on my skin all day, and no matter how long I applied before bed, it ends up sinking into my pillow, so I don’t reach for it often.
It’s probably better suited to those with very dry skin.
Mid-range
Kiehl’s Midnight Recovery Concentrate, £20 for 15ml, Boots: I can’t count on both hands the number of friends that use this religiously, it’s one of the products I’m asked about (and for!) most – and with good reason.
In contrast to the Byoma oil, the texture was almost like water – which takes some getting used to and careful application.
It also sinks in very quickly – so if you have dry skin, you will want to use a rich moisturiser underneath, but for those like me with oily skin it will be enough as is.
I noticed my skin was far less red after just a week’s use.
There’s only one thing I don’t like, and that’s the smell!
Luxury
Summer Fridays Heavenly Sixteen All-In-One Face Oil, £55 for 30ml, spacenk.com: When I was trying these oils, I had sympathy for Goldilocks.
Too oily, not oily enough – and this one, just like Baby Bear’s porridge, is just right.
It doesn’t sink in very quickly, but also doesn’t feel heavy or cloying on my skin, which is great for long-lasting hydration.
The scent is minimal, so it doesn’t irritate my skin or sting my eyes, and the impressive mix of 16 oils – none of which block pores – means it targets pretty much every skin problem you can think of.
It’s a great all-rounder, and my current favourite.
Pick of the week
Make-up Cooling Water Jelly Tints, £22, sephora.co.uk: I’ve got great news for anyone who found themselves obsessed with Milk Make-up Cooling Water Jelly Tints over the summer.
The brand has just launched two new shades, and they are much more subtle than the original offering – Fresh, a baby pink shade, and Fizz, a sheer peach hue.
The new shades are more wearable, so get in quick!
Shop now at sephora.co.uk.