Best Oils For Your Body

Winter isn't just time for holiday parties, skiing trips, and playing in the snow—it's time to change up your skin care routine too! The colder months can leave your skin feeling dry, scaly, and papery, thanks to indoor heating, hotter showers, freezing wind, and colder temperatures. But did you know that moisturizer isn’t the only way to soothe your skin? Oils can hydrate your skin and keep it soft and supple, and we're not just talking about the types you put onto your body. Making sure the right oils are in your diet won't just help your cholesterol, it will keep your skin healthy too. We spoke with celebrity nutritionist Haylie Pomroy (J.Lo is one of her clients!) to find out which oils you should be using in your diet and on your body.

Slathering an oil onto your body is best done right after showering when your skin is still damp, as it will absorb better into your skin. "Coconut and sesame oils are great for the skin," says Haylie. "You can include them in your diet, but applying them straight onto your body is great too. You can also look for oil-based moisturizers that contain oils such as emu, rose hip, and olive." Using the right oils in your cooking will also keep your hair shiny and your skin hydrated and healthy. "I like a high-quality olive or grape seed oil," says Haylie. "Grape seed oil is great because it can tolerate high heat, keeps veggies light and crisp, and is also wonderful for searing fish and meat. If a recipe calls for butter, replace it with a high-quality olive oil. The omega-3s in better olive oils, such as extra virgin, can help to decrease inflammation in the body."

And what should you stay away from? "Steer clear of canola, corn, and safflower oils," says Haylie. "These don't have any health benefits, can be fattening, and aren't good for your heart." In addition to including more oil in your diet and your skin care routine, it's also important to up your water intake. Try drinking hot water with lemon to cleanse your body and keep yourself hydrated.