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15 Best Face Oils to Moisturize And Replenish Your Skin Barrier
Want to take your skincare regime to the next level? Get your hands on the best face oils to revitalize your skin and provide long-lasting moisture.
It is understandable why some people are hesitant to invest in face oils for their skincare routine. They tend to paint a picture where their skin becomes too greasy and prone to breakouts. But, you would be surprised to know that if you choose the best face oil for your skin, you can in fact reduce pimples, whiteheads, and blackheads while gaining long-lasting moisture.
Face oils consist of concentrated essential oils, including tea tree, rosemary, or sweet almond which require a carrier product to bolster its properties. In some cases, they can also consist of a rejuvenating blend of essential oils and nourishing carrier oil used to soften and replenish your skin. The biggest mistake that people make when looking for a skin oil is that they forget to consider whether the infused ingredients are compatible with their skin type and concerns. Besides, beauty store shelves are infiltrated with a plethora of poor-quality products that make misleading claims. To help you get your hands on the right facial oil, we have curated a list of our top product picks below. Keep reading to find out!
Our Top Picks:
1. Palmer's Cocoa Butter Formula Skin Therapy Oil - Best Overall
2. Sunday Riley C.E.O. Glow Vitamin C + Turmeric Face Oil - Best Brightening Product
3. Cliganic Certified Organic Rosehip Oil - Best Essential Oil
4. RejuveNaturals SKIN RENEWING Certified Organic Vitamin E Oil - Best to Restore Lipid Barrier
5. ELEMIS Superfood Facial Oil - Best for Antioxidant Benefits
6. Minimalist 100% Squalane Face Oil - Best for Soft And Plump Skin
7. Plum Glow-Restore Face Oils Blend - Best Non-Comedogenic Oil
8. Honest Organic Beauty Facial Oil - Best for Dry Skin
9. Minimalist 100% Squalane Face Oil - Best for All Skin Types
10. Amaki Jasmine & Rose Nourishing Oil - Best-smelling Oil
15 Best Face Oils to Improve Your Skin’s Health And Lock-in Moisture
1. PALMER'S COCOA BUTTER FORMULA SKIN THERAPY OIL
Formulated with sweet almond oil, this hydrating facial oil by Palmer’s replenishes and protects the skin’s lipid barrier (1). With this product, you can retexturize your skin by reducing scaliness and roughness, and smoothing out its surface. Besides, unlike many oil-based products, this formula absorbs easily into your skin and doesn’t leave a greasy slick — so you can massage your face with it even before stepping out of the house.
Key Ingredients: Sweet almond oil, grape seed oil, and vitamin A, C, and E
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Diminishes fine lines
- Brightens your skin
- Soothing properties
- Rich in antioxidants
- A little goes a long way
Cons:
- Not for acne-prone skin
2. Sunday Riley C.E.O. Glow Vitamin C + Turmeric Face Oil
This face oil by Sunday Riley is perfect to invigorate the skin, especially for those whose skincare routines took a back seat due to their busy schedules. By employing a potent concentration of vitamin C, the product brightens your complexion and helps eliminate dark spots and other skin imperfections. Other botanical oils infused in it make the product really indulgent, and you’ll love how it feels on your skin. And of course, the fantastic emollient properties of this oil soften and beautify your skin.
Pros:
- Rich in antioxidants
- Anti-inflammatory
- Lightweight
- Restores the skin barrier
- Sustainably produced
- Heavenly scent
- Suitable for most skin types
Cons:
- Too many ingredients
You can use this concentrated rosehip oil by Cliganic with a carrier oil to provide your skin with a plethora of benefits. To begin with, the product has an indulgent herby and warm scent that indulges your senses on application. When you massage this product onto your skin regularly, you’ll notice that it becomes softer and more supple. It also dries out pimples and zits to give you clearer skin. Plus, rosehip oil is an effective ingredient that helps in boosting your skin’s elasticity, thereby diminishing the signs of aging on your face (2).
Key Ingredients: Organic and undiluted rosehip oil
Pros:
- Cruelty-free
- Climate-pledge friendly
- Rich in antioxidants
- Diminishes wrinkles
- A little goes a long way
- Alleviates effects of photoaging
Cons:
- Greasy residue
4. Bio-Oil Skincare Oil
While Bio-Oil’s skincare oil is well-known for preventing stretch marks on the body, it is also a good alternative for moisturizing and resurfacing the face. It helps to restore skin damage brought on by scars and stretch marks. The product is plush with rejuvenating botanical extracts that soothe skin inflammation while replenishing its protective barrier. However, it is not a good choice for scent-sensitive people as the product has a strong fragrance.
Key Ingredients: Purcellin oil, rosemary oil, calendula oil, lavender oil, and vitamins A and E
Pros:
- Emollient
- Makes skin soft
- Non-comedogenic
- Repairs acne scars
- Non-greasy formula
- Prevents trans-epidermal water loss
Cons:
- Provides limited benefits unlike the claims
5. RejuveNaturals SKIN RENEWING VITAMIN E OIL
This certified organic face oil by RejuveNaturals provides your skin with the goodness of vitamin E. Leveraging the power of antioxidants, the formula fights free radical damage and keeps collagen intact in your skin (3). The product also contains sunflower, avocado, and other botanical oils that work marvelously as occlusives to nourish the skin's lipid barrier and prevent trans-epidermal water loss. You can even use this face oil to moisturize your nails or restore elasticity in other areas with wrinkles and fine lines.
Key Ingredients: Sunflower oil, avocado oil, tocopherol, and other botanical oils
Pros:
- Cruelty-free
- Free of allergens
- Non-sticky
- Diffuses stretch marks
- Climate-pledge friendly
- Great emollient for neck skin
Cons:
- Not pure vitamin E oil
6. plum glow-restore face oils Blend
Made with grapeseed oil, this cosmetic blend by Plum shields your skin from UV damage by absorbing its impact and strengthening the skin’s barrier (4). In doing so, the product also stimulates natural collagen production in the skin and slows signs of aging such as wrinkles. The product also contains sea buckthorn oil, which nourishes the epidermal layer and restores your skin’s health. For best results, massage a few drops of this facial oil on your skin regularly and follow up with a water-based moisturizer.
Key Ingredients: Grapeseed oil, and sea buckthorn oil
Pros:
- Vegan
- Reduces inflammation
- Works for all skin types
- Doesn’t feel greasy
- Non-comedogenic
- Plush with antioxidants
Cons:
- Leaky container
- Overpowering scent
7. Leven Rose 100% Pure & Organic JOJOBA OIL
One can use this pure and organic jojoba oil by Leven Rose directly or as a carrier product for your essential oil on their skin. The best part – this face oil doesn’t trigger comedones such as whiteheads and blackheads. Additionally, it regulates excess oil production in your skin, and has an excellent emollient ingredient that softens your skin’s texture. It also helps increase skin’s elasticity when you massage it regularly.
Key Ingredients: Organic jojoba oil
Pros:
- Rich in vitamin E
- Resurfaces dry skin
- Cost-effective
- Low risk of allergies
- Replenishes lipid barrier
- Smoothes chapped skin areas
Cons:
- Leaves an oily sheen
8. ELEMIS Superfood FACIAL OIL
As the name suggests, this facial oil by Elemis is a powerhouse of nutrients to pamper your skin and improve its overall health. The product is formulated with the moisturizing properties of pumpkin seed and black seed oil that provide your skin with essential fatty acids and smoothen its texture. Besides, it contains extracts of the stinging nettle plant that fortify your skin with antioxidants and keep free radicals at bay. With regular use, this nourishing oil will make your skin plump and beautiful.
Key Ingredients: Organic pumpkin seed oil, black seed oil, and nettle extracts
Pros:
- Lightweight formula
- Absorbs easily
- Non-greasy
- Minimizes dullness
- Great for nighttime skincare
- A little goes a long way
Cons:
- Overpowering scent
9. HONEST ORGANIC BEAUTY FACIAL OIL
This rich skin oil by Honest Beauty is free from parabens, mineral oil, and other many other filler ingredients that are harsh on your skin and provide no benefits to it. Instead, it is made with rejuvenating, naturally-derived oils that deeply nourish your skin and improve its appearance. Made with rich oils extracted from olives, jojoba, and avocado, the product reduces dryness and resurfaces chapped and weather-beaten areas on the skin.
Key Ingredients: Olive oil, jojoba oil, lavender oil, and other botanical extracts
Pros:
- Cruelty-free
- Reduces scaliness
- Pleasant smell
- Certified organic ingredients
- A little goes a long way
Cons:
- Not for oily or acne-prone skin
10. the tribe concepts 24K KUMKUMADI THAILAM
If you are an enthusiast of all things ayurvedic, then this kumkumadi oil by The Tribe Concepts is the perfect skincare investment for you. The skin oil is formulated with invigorating herbs such as saffron, Haridra, and manjistha, which are anecdotally proven to detoxify the skin and give a radiant complexion. Besides, the oil blend includes sandalwood extracts, which have been used in India for centuries to improve skin quality and health.
Key Ingredients: Saffron, Haridra, manjistha, and sandalwood
Pros:
- Brightening benefits
- Very moisturizing
- Revitalizing formula
- Cruelty-free
- Sustainably sourced
- Suits all skin types
Cons:
- Not for scent-sensitive people
11. Minimalist 100% Squalane FACE OIL
Squalene is one of the best humectants to mollycoddle your skin and provide a plethora of skincare benefits. The product targets skin problems such as dryness while making the skin so soft, plump, and hydrated that you cannot stop touching it. Plus, the product is very gentle and doesn’t cause any skin irritations. While people of all age groups can reap the benefits of this incredible product, it is great for anti-aging as it boosts elasticity and strengthens your skin.
Key Ingredients: Squalene sourced from olive oil
Pros:
- Non-comedogenic
- Restores skin suppleness
- Hypoallergenic
- Suits all skin types
- Doubles up as an occlusive
- Prevents skin dehydration
Cons:
- Feels quite sticky
12. BELLA VITA ORGANIC KUMKUMADI FACE OIL
This kumkumadi face oil by Bella Vita indulges your senses with its invigorating aroma which makes you look forward to your skincare routine. The formula penetrates deep into your skin’s layers and provides nourishment from the inside out. When used regularly under moisturizers, the oil makes your skin soft and plump, while also providing a radiant complexion. Besides, it is cruelty-free and naturally formulated.
Key Ingredients: Saffron, sandalwood, turmeric, and rose extracts
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Rejuvenating formula
- Rich in antioxidants
- Stimulates blood circulation
- Soothes inflammation
- Minimizes dullness
Cons:
- Not good for acne-prone skin
13. AMAKI Jasmine & Rose Nourishing Oil
You can trust this nourishing facial oil by Amaki to soothe inflammation and revitalize your skin with its bountiful properties. Infused with argan oil, the product works its way to restore your skin barrier while increasing softness and elasticity. In addition, geranium oil shields your skin against sun damage and slows down several signs of aging. Also, you don’t have to worry about this face oil clogging your pores as it is lightweight and non-comedogenic.
Key Ingredients: Argan oil, geranium oil, jasmine, and rose essence
Pros:
- Soothes inflammation
- Pleasant floral fragrance
- Alleviates sunburns
- Provides aromatherapy benefits
- Offers hair care benefits
Cons:
- Greasy
- Takes time to absorb
14. AZURE 24K GOLD & ROSE HIP OIL
Infused with the goodness of gold squalene, this facial oil by Azure gives a golden radiance to your skin and improves its health. The product not only moisturizes your skin but also makes it firmer to counter the visible effects of aging. It is lightly scented, which indulges your senses and makes the skincare routine enjoyable without causing irritation to people with sensitive skin. Plus, the oil absorbs easily into the skin, so you can apply a few drops before leaving the house.
Key Ingredients: Rosehip oil, gold squalene, vitamin E, and other botanical oils
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Cruelty-free
- Hypoallergenic
- Sustainably-sourced
- A little goes a long way
Cons:
- Leaves an oily sheen
15. PEARLESSENCE ARGAN + VITAMIN E NOURISHING FACIAL OIL
With this facial oil, you can massage and replenish your skin to enhance its appearance. The lightweight formula is infused with argan oil and vitamin E that help restore your skin’s lipid barrier and smoothen its texture. It boosts moisture on your skin and prevents trans-epidermal water loss so your skin doesn’t get dehydrated. This facial oil is incredible for people with dry skin.
Key Ingredients: Argan oil, and vitamin E
Pros:
- Cruelty-free
- Paraben-free
- Locks in moisture
- Perfect serum for winters
- Reverses the signs of aging
Cons:
- Greasy residue
Now that you’ve seen our product recommendations for the best face oils, let us go through the following buying guide and steps to use to shop wisely and make the best of the product.
How to Choose the Best Face Oil?
Here are a few points to consider before investing in a face oil for your skin needs:
Skin Type: It can be tricky to choose face oils for skincare as one wrong decision can worsen your skin condition. Hence, the first thing you must consider before making a purchase is your skin type. People with oily, combination, and normal skin types should choose lightweight oils such as argan oil, sunflower oil, jojoba oil, apricot seed oil, etc. as they can be applied as a thin film on your skin. However, people with dry skin types can go for oils with richer botanical extracts, including olive oil, avocado oil, etc. for intense nourishment.
Concentration: While some facial oils consist of a single, and undiluted botanical extract such as essential rosemary oil, other products consist of formulated blends. To understand what to prioritize before making a purchase, understand which ingredients are likely to cause an allergy and which ones are not. People with sensitive skin should steer clear of undiluted essential oils as they have overpowering fragrances and can be quite harsh on your skin. Also, blends with too many ingredients, no matter how natural or organic they may be, are likely to cause side effects or skin irritation.
Non-greasy And Non-comedogenic Formula: Compared to other skin moisturizers, oils are most likely to leave a greasy residue after application. So, while some oiliness would be still expected from them, try looking for a product that absorbs more easily into your skin. Also, read labels to ensure that the product doesn’t clog your pores or trigger whiteheads, blackheads, or acne.
How to Use the Best Face Oils?
Step 1: Start by cleansing your face with a gentle face wash. Follow up with a toner to prep your face and give it an even tone.
Step 2: Take 2-3 drops (or as directed in the instruction manual) of your favorite facial oil and apply it directly on your face.
Step 3: If you’re using an undiluted essential oil, then add 2-3 drops of it in a carrier oil such as coconut, jojoba, argan, etc.
Step 4: Massage the product onto your face and neck in upward, circular motions.
Step 5: Follow up with a lightweight water-based moisturizer.
Talking about the right time of the day to use face oil, our contributor Erin Zadoorian, Founder at Riti, says, “Most tend to agree that nighttime is the best time to use face oil. It can nourish your skin overnight without being affected by your external environment, like the daily germs, wind, rain, etc. that you may encounter during the day. Be sure to wash your pillow cases regularly if you apply it every night.”
The above-mentioned products are some of the best face oils that suit different skin needs. Note that even naturally-derived ingredients can cause allergies or irritation, so know and understand how your skin reacts to them before buying the product. Ensure you refer to our buying guide before making a purchase so you make the right decision for your skin concerns. Happy shopping!
Why Trust Pinkvilla?
Anoushka, the author of this article, says that face oils are a great way to nourish and protect the skin. They create a barrier that locks in moisture, allowing the skin to stay hydrated and luminous. With the help of her co-worker, she put these face oils to the test and was blown away by Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula Skin Therapy Oil. It eliminated any rough or dry patches, making the surface feel smooth and hydrated. Apart from that, it quickly gets absorbed into the skin and doesn’t leave her feeling greasy.
Our product experts study the specifications of every product we suggest and try them out to bring what’s proven to be worthy of your money, time, and energy. We also have subject matter experts from various fields like Fashion, Skincare, Haircare, Home Decor, and Health & Fitness onboard to make sure our suggestions are credible and trustworthy. You can trust Pinkvilla to be your faithful shopping guide for all the right reasons!
Contributor: Erin Zadoorian, Founder at Riti
Sources
1. An updated review on the efficacy and benefits of sweet almond, evening primrose, and jojoba oils in skin care applications
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/ics.12758
2. The effectiveness of a standardized rose hip powder, containing seeds and shells of Rosa canina, on cell longevity, skin wrinkles, moisture, and elasticity
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4655903/
3. Vitamin E in dermatology
https://journals.lww.com/idoj/Fulltext/2016/07040/Vitamin_E_in_dermatology.18.aspx
4. Evaluation of the Phytochemistry–Therapeutic Activity Relationship for Grape Seeds Oil
