Shower oil has made its way into our bathrooms in the same manner as shower gels. Considered to be natural and trendy, it is ideal for softening and hydrating the skin. Discover everything you need to know about it.
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Shower Oil: What You Need to Know.
Summary
- What is shower oil?
- What are the benefits of shower oil?
- How to choose your shower oil?
- How to use shower oil?
- The contraindications to the use of a shower oil
Published December 9, 2021,
updated on August 8, 2024,
by
Stéphanie, PhD, Doctorate in Life and Health Sciences
—
5 min read
What is shower oil?
Theshower oil is a care product for daily body hygiene composed of a cleansing base containing surfactants, moisturizing agents (aloe vera, glycerin, etc...) and vegetable oils (avocado, coconut, argan, sweet almond, etc...).
Used as a substitute for shower gel, it effectively cleanses the skin without causing harm. Indeed, unlike a traditional cleansing product, the shower oil deeply nourishes the skin. Unlike a standard oil, it is light and less greasy. In addition to nourishing the skin, it leaves a protective film to ensure its well-being and natural suppleness.
Although it is suitable for all skin types, shower oil is particularly recommended for dry, uncomfortable, and atopic skin.
What are the benefits of shower oil?
Firstly, thebath oil allows for cleansing the body without causing harm. Contrary to what its name might suggest, it cleanses just as effectively as a shower gel. Already used in makeup removal products, the oil is able to latch onto all impurities that have embedded themselves in the epidermis to subsequently remove them.
Compared to other cleansing treatments, bath oil possesses a superior moisturizing capacity. Indeed, it deeply nourishes the epidermis due to the fatty substances it contains. It also leaves a protective veil on the skin, keeping it soft and nourished throughout the day. It thus protects the skin against the drying effects of limestone, cold or weather conditions, as well as against various other external aggressions (sun, pollution, pool chlorine, excessive perspiration, etc...).
The shower oil will also provide the skin with the necessary lipids for the reconstruction of the skin barrier, and thus reduce feelings of tightness and potential itching, and alleviate irritations. It thus provides a great sense of comfort to the skin.
How to choose your shower oil?
The foundation for choosing your shower oil is to check the list of ingredients. In addition to the scent and packaging, we also advise you to select your oil based on its composition.
Quick note : A shower oil is not composed of 100% oil but also includes a cleansing base (surfactants), thus allowing one to wash under the same conditions as with a traditional shower gel.
Avoid shower oils containing mineral oils. These are derived from the petrochemical industry. They do not nourish the skin and can clog pores, due to their film-forming and occlusive function. To identify them, you will find them under the I.N.C.I. names "Mineral Oil" or "Paraffinium Liquidium". Instead, opt for shower oils containing vegetable oils (coconut, avocado, sweet almond, etc...).
For safety measures, prioritize bath oils without parabens, without synthetic fragrances, without sulfates, without phenoxyethanol, etc... substances suspected to be allergenic, irritating and even endocrine disruptors for some. Consider, for example, a cleansing oil containing gentle and plant-based surfactants (coco-betaine, coco-glucoside, etc...).
How to use shower oil?
The cleansing oil is used in the shower or bath, in the same way as a shower gel. Place a dollop of the product in the palm of your hand and apply it evenly over your entire pre-moistened body, focusing on the driest areas, to fully benefit from its cleansing properties.
However, refrain from using it on the face or on intimate areas, and instead opt for a suitable product.
Upon contact with water, it emulsifies to create a light foam. To ensure better oil penetration and dislodge dirt, perform gentle massages. You can then rinse thoroughly with warm water. Pat your skin dry with a clean, soft towel. After showering, we recommend you to apply a body moisturizer as a supplement to guarantee optimal results.
The contraindications to the use of a shower oil.
There is no contraindication to the use of a shower oil. It is tolerated by all skin types. However, avoid using the cleansing oil to shave in the shower. Indeed, it could accumulate on the razor. Instead, opt for a shaving foam which is more practical, thus avoiding cuts and irritation.
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