All About the Oils
So you, like me, might be wondering what’s the skinny is on all of these oils. Everyone seems to be all about the coconut, and I do not blame them, but what about our old friend olive, new friend almond, and everyone’s bestie avocado?! Which of these are the best, why, and how do I choose? Well, I’m about to dive into what’s what and who should be using which for their skincare needs. I know, not really going to get too into the cooking portion, but I will touch on it.
NOTE! Not all oils are made the same, be sure to do your research on brands that are pure and not adding unnecessary ingredients. So let's get to it…
Olive Oil: The OG of Oils
Olive oil is our old trusty pal, which is where most of us all began. I personally still enjoy cooking with it, and it remains very beneficial for our skin. It doesn’t typically irritate or trigger allergies in the skin. Contains vitamins such as A, D, E, and K, which as we probably know are all very good for the skin. These vitamins repair, protect, hydrate, moisturize, clean and support healthy skin. It also contains strong antibacterial properties, just as coconut oil does, but even a tad higher. Though it is said coconut oil may work as a better carrier of moisture when added with other ingredients, penetrating a bit deeper into the skin. Olive oil can be a tad heavy for some, so those out there with oily or acneic skin you may not want to choose this one as your moisturizer or face mask additive. In general, when too much oil is left on the skin, it does have the potential to clog pores trapping in bacteria, thus having the reverse effect you’re probably seeking. I would say that a little goes a long way, and too much of anything is never a good thing. So, just use as needed, a dab will usually do ya! It still remains a great way to remove dirt, clean skin of makeup (especially stubborn), after sun care, moisturizer, and can treat some bacterial skin infections.
Coconut Oil: My Multi-Tasking, Mouth-Cleansing BFF
Coconut oil came into my life several years ago, and let’s just say she’s been in rotation ever since. I use it to remove makeup, moisturize my body, and yes… to pull.
Oil pulling is an Ayurvedic practice that’s been around for thousands of years. The idea is simple: you swish oil (I use unrefined, cold-pressed virgin coconut oil) around in your mouth for about 10–20 minutes to “pull” out toxins, freshen your breath, and support gum and dental health. I try to do this daily, though let’s be honest, if I slept just a tad too long and running behind, that’s not happening… But on the mornings I make time for it- my mouth feels cleaner, my teeth brighter, and it genuinely feels like I’m doing a mini detox before my coffee.
Having had dental issues since I was little (my mom still blames it on me refusing fluoride and Flintstones vitamins, oops), oil pulling feels like my way of making peace with my smile. It’s gentle, natural, and soothing- like self-care for your teeth.
Coconut oil is also a superstar for skincare. It’s rich in vitamins E and K, has antibacterial and antifungal properties, and works beautifully as a base for masks and makeup removing. Just be mindful if your skin tends to clog easily — use a small amount or mix it with lighter oils like almond or jojoba.
Almond Oil: The Sweet Softener
Almond oil is the quiet overachiever. It’s loaded with vitamin E, zinc, potassium, and proteins, making it a great option for dry, sensitive, or mature skin. It helps improve skin tone, calms inflammation, and brings that luminous, hydrated look without feeling greasy. It’s also a go-to for under-eye care and gentle makeup removal. In Ayurveda, almond oil is considered sattvic — meaning it brings clarity and balance to both mind and body — which makes sense, because it’s one of the most soothing oils out there.
Avocado Oil: The Deep Nourisher
Avocado oil is like a warm hug for your skin. It’s packed with omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants that repair and deeply moisturize dry, damaged skin. I love using it as a nighttime treatment — especially in the colder months when my skin is staging a protest against the dry air.
🔥 Setting the Mood: Fall & Winter Rituals
As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, this is the perfect time to slow down and make your skincare feel like a ritual — not a routine. Before applying your mask or moisturizer, set the scene:
Light a candle or some incense.
Put on a soft playlist (I love acoustic or ambient for this).
Warm your chosen oil between your palms — feel it come alive.
Take three deep breaths in through your nose, out through your mouth, and imagine releasing the day.
Let this be a small ceremony for yourself — a moment of grounding in the midst of busy holiday energy. There’s something about tending to your skin when the world outside is cold and still; it feels like tending to your inner flame.
✨ Ritual Recipe #1: Coconut Glow Cleansing Mask
A little Rooted Radiance kitchen magic for your skin:
Ingredients:
1 tsp unrefined coconut oil
1 tsp honey (raw if possible)
½ tsp turmeric or matcha (for glow + antioxidant boost)
Optional: a few drops of lavender or rose essential oil
To use:
Warm the coconut oil between your hands, mix in the honey and powder of choice until it becomes a paste. Smooth onto clean skin, take three deep breaths (bonus points if you do this while oil pulling), and let it sit for 10–15 minutes. Rinse with warm water and pat dry.
Your skin will feel soft, nourished, and blissfully dewy — like it just came back from a cozy retreat, even if you’re just in fuzzy socks and a robe.
💫 Ritual Recipe #2: Warm Vanilla Almond Body Oil
This one is pure luxury for cold-weather skin — and ridiculously easy to make. Use it post-shower or as part of your evening wind-down ritual.
Ingredients:
½ cup sweet almond oil (or jojoba if you prefer a drier finish)
1 tbsp coconut oil (melted)
1 tsp vitamin E oil (optional, for extra nourishment)
1 tsp pure vanilla extract or 2 drops vanilla essential oil
Optional: 3 drops sweet orange or sandalwood essential oil for a mood-lifting scent
To use:
Mix ingredients in a small glass bottle and warm between your palms before applying. Massage into damp skin after your shower — start from your feet and move upward in slow, circular motions to stimulate circulation.
If you want to make it feel extra special, wrap yourself in a robe afterward, sip a cup of tea, and just let your skin drink it all in. The warmth, the scent, and the texture will instantly shift you into that slow, grounded energy your body craves this time of year.
Bottom line: Oils aren’t just skincare — they’re seasonal medicine for the body and soul. Whether you’re swishing, slathering, or soaking them in, they remind us to slow down, listen to our bodies, and glow from the inside out. 🍁✨
