Everything You've Ever Wanted to Know About Face Oils, Answered
What They Are: Oils are oils. This seems like it should be a no-brainer. But oils are also emollients, which means that unlike creams or ointments, which sink deep into skin for intensive, long-lasting hydration, oils tend to hang out near the surface. Essentially, their moisturizing power just isn't up to snuff. But while you don't get quite as much moisture, it's not like they're not doing anything useful. "Oils do add barrier protection, silkiness, and superficial hydration," says cosmetic dermatologist Paul Jarrod Frank, M.D. They may sink into skin just enough to nourish the topmost layer—but that's still not a whole lot compared with true hydrating heavyweights like hyaluronic acid, which literally binds water to skin cells.A good way...