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Facial oil is a skincare must-have because it helps strengthen the skin, soothe inflammation, reduce signs of aging, and improve the skin's elasticity. It's especially for those with dry skin, as it can prevent moisture loss and leave your skin feeling soft to the touch. However, there are many different facial oils available online, so how do you know which one works for your specific dry skin type the most?
To help you with your search, we've narrowed down the 10 best facial oil products for dry skin. The Ordinary's Rosehip Oil is one of our favorites, as it gives your dull, dry skin a nice glow, and it's stored in a dark glass bottle to maintain its freshness. We also created a buying guide (reviewed by a dermatologist) to provide you with some useful tips that will help make your decision process much easier!
Dr. Levy is a board certified dermatologist practicing in NYC and Westport, Connecticut. She has expertise in treating inflammatory skin conditions like acne, rosacea, eczema, and psoriasis. She has an interest in skincare and takes a personalized approach to all of her patients.
mybest US' editing team consists of experienced members who have backgrounds in writing, editing, translation, and more. We are dedicated to researching what makes a product or service the best to users in the US in order to create top-quality articles. From skincare, to kitchen appliances, and to DIY supplies, our mission is to find the best ones for you.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
Table of Contents
Not all facial oil products suit everyone. Besides knowing your skin type and issue, there's more that you need to look at for your safety and the best results. Below are some useful tips to know before making a decision.
There are many different plant-based oils, and not all of them work for all dry skin types. Continue reading this section to know which oils work for your skin condition the most!
If you have extremely dry skin, look for oils that can deeply moisturize your skin such as almond oil, coconut oil, jojoba oil, maracuja oil, argan oil, and sunflower oil. They deliver powerful moisturization to the skin to correct skin dryness and dullness and leave your skin feeling smooth and plump.
They are also rich in antioxidants such as vitamin C and vitamin E to enhance the skin's protective barrier. Those oils can also reduce inflammation!
If you are acne- or rosacea-prone as well as extremely dry, avoid coconut oil- or olive oil-based products. These can trigger acne flares or perioral dermatitis, a rosacea-like rash around the nose and mouth.
They also can trigger an overgrowth of the yeast that causes seborrheic dermatitis, or facial dandruff. If you notice an increase in blackheads or whiteheads with using these oils, switch to a non-comedogenic product.
If you have dry, rough, and sagging skin, you should choose an oil that is packed with antioxidants and fatty acids to help improve the skin's elasticity and slow down the aging process. Rosehip seed oil is a great option, as it contains a high amount of vitamin A and can help combat dark spots, wrinkles, and lines.
Argan oil is rich in omega fatty acids. It can also increase collagen production to plump your skin and minimize the appearance of lines and wrinkles. Marula oil can also blur the look of fine lines and make your skin look more youthful.
If you suffer from hyperpigmentation due to aging, consider pomegranate oil. It's rich in flavonoids and punicic acid and can help minimize scars, increase skin hydration, and even out the skin tone. Some other anti-aging oils that are frequently found in facial oils include jojoba seed oil, evening primrose oil, and sweet almond oil.
For aging skin, look for oils with vitamin C or fatty acids. Vitamin C can help with fine lines and wrinkles and hyperpigmentation. Oils with vitamin C can be used in the morning to help with photoprotection as well. Fatty acids provide hydration to the skin can help with a skin-plumping appearance.
For those with irritated or sensitive skin, search for oils with strong anti-inflammatory properties like patchouli oil, lavender oil, and eucalyptus oil as they can help calm your skin. Jojoba oil can also reduce inflammation and promotes healing of the skin.
Since sensitive skin is easily irritated, we suggest conducting a patch test before applying the facial oil to your face. You should also choose a formula that's free from potential irritants like fragrances.
If your dry skin is prone to acne breakouts, you should look for non-comedogenic oils as they won't clog your pores and are less likely to cause acne. Squalane, jojoba, sweet almond oil, grapeseed oil, and rosehip seed oil are some non-comedogenic options for acne-prone skin.
Specifically, squalane oil is usually extracted from olives. It mimics the skin's natural oil and can be absorbed easily into the skin without leaving any greasy residue or blocking your pores. This nourishing oil can give your skin the needed hydration, reduce lines and wrinkles, and soften the skin's texture.
Rosehip seed oil is also great for acne-prone skin. It's packed with fatty acids and antioxidants and can promote cell regeneration. It also has strong healing and anti-inflammatory properties to regulate oil production, prevent acne, and reduce acne scars.
Squalane is one of my favorite ingredients to look for in an oil for all skin types but especially for acne-prone skin. Squalane provides great hydration to the skin and can help repair the skin barrier, so it's beneficial to those with eczema or dry skin.
It doesn't clog the pores and won't contribute to significant acne flares. Squalane oils are great for anyone with acne-prone skin looking for a hydrating oil that provides a dewy look.
Many facial oils contain oils only, but there are also products formulated with extra ingredients like fruit extracts, botanical extracts, and antioxidants. Some common fruit extracts found in facial oils include acai, grapefruit, and orange. They are usually rich in vitamins A, E, and C to even out the skin tone and give your skin a nice glow.
Botanical extracts like chamomile and rosemary leaf exhibit anti-inflammatory activity to soothe the skin. Meanwhile, antioxidants such as vitamin A and vitamin C help rejuvenate your skin and make blemishes like lines and wrinkles less visible.
If you suffer from hyperpigmentation, look for oils with vitamin C or arbutin to help lighten dark spots on the skin. Oils with added vitamin A can have an anti-aging benefit. Make sure you use a daily SPF with these oils for maximum antiaging benefit!
Dark glass bottles are the best packaging for facial oils. Heat and air can damage the quality of oils, so dark glass bottles can help products last longer by blocking out the sun's heat and UV rays.
Even if your facial oil is packed in a dark glass bottle, be sure to keep the product away from direct sunlight and high room temperatures. You should store them at room temperature or keep them in the refrigerator once opened.
Pros:
Cons:
This rosehip seed oil contains a high level of vitamin E, omega-3, and omega-6 fatty acids to nourish and strengthen the skin. This oil can also help reduce signs of aging like wrinkles and fine lines, giving you a youthful complexion. Another plus point is that this facial oil is free from potential irritants like fragrance or sulfates.
A few buyers don't like the scent, while some comment that this rosehip seed oil causes acne breakouts. Nonetheless, the majority agree that it's moisturizing and makes the dry areas on their faces smooth, plump, and soft. Many further say that the oil evens out their skin tone and gives their skin a nice glow.
Pros:
Clarins' facial oil features hazelnut oil, which is rich in vitamin E and omega-9 fatty acids. It helps to seal in moisture, soften the skin, and reduce aging signs. The addition of botanical extracts such as rosewood, patchouli, and blue orchid further helps improve your complexion and minimize the appearance of wrinkles.
One drawback of this facial oil for some reviewers is the strong patchouli scent. Nevertheless, the majority confirm that it moisturizes and softens their dry skin effectively without causing acne breakouts. After using, many find their skin looks much more radiant.
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Cons:
This cold-pressed marula oil contains a high amount of omegas 6 and 9 fatty acids and antioxidants to enhance the skin's protective barrier, soften the skin, and prevent premature aging. What's more, it's free of fragrance, silicone, and essential oils and is suitable for those with dry and sensitive skin.
Some buyers warn that this facial oil might cause acne breakouts. On the other hand, many others support the claim that this oil effectively moisturizes their skin and smooths wrinkles and fine lines. They also praise the lightweight consistency that doesn't make their skin feel greasy.
Pros:
This argan oil is great for those with aging skin. It's packed with vitamin E and essential fatty acids to improve the skin's hydration and elasticity, soothe inflammation, as well as prevent acne. This oil can also be applied to your hair, body, or hands.
Although some reviewers complain about the strong scent, most confirm that this oil makes their face smooth and can reduce fine lines. Many with dry, acne-prone, and sensitive skin further mention that this argan oil does a great job in controlling their acne breakouts without causing any irritation.
Pros:
Cons:
Elemis' facial oil contains a blend of nine oils that are rich in antioxidants and nutrients. Specifically, broccoli seed oil is rich in vitamin C to brighten your skin's complexion. Meanwhile, flaxseed oil contains a high amount of omega-3 fatty acids to soften the skin and even out the skin tone.
The main complaint about this facial oil is the greasy consistency. Still, the majority agree that their skin feels moisturized, glowy, and smooth after use. They further mention that this oil is great for winter use. Another bonus point for buyers is the light, pleasant scent.
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This facial oil features maqui, which is packed with antioxidants to neutralize free radical damage and rejuvenate your skin. It's also formulated with prickly pear to promote skin cell turnover and reduce inflammation. What's more, acai extract contains a high amount of fatty acids to smoothen your complexion.
There are reports that this facial oil leads to acne breakouts. On another note, many reviewers mention this oil effectively improves their skin texture and tone. They also see a major improvement in fine lines and wrinkles. It's also mentioned that this oil absorbs easily into the skin.
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Cons:
If you're looking for a facial oil that doesn't leave behind a greasy residue, consider this squalane oil! Squalane is found naturally in the skin's sebum and can be absorbed quickly. It helps reinforce the skin's protective barrier and prevent moisture loss. It also has powerful anti-aging properties to protect your skin against environmental stressors.
A few reviewers got rashes after using this facial oil. So if you have sensitive skin, do a patch test beforehand. Meanwhile, many people are impressed with this facial oil because it helps to balance skin, reduce signs of aging like wrinkles and lines, and heal acne. They find it super moisturizing and fast-absorbing as well.
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Cons:
This jojoba oil is rich in fatty acids and antioxidants such as vitamin E. It can help soften your skin, alleviate inflammation and redness caused by drying, reduce hyperpigmentation as well as dark spots. What's more, this facial oil is free from potential irritants like fragrances and is suitable for sensitive skin.
Some buyers say that the oil has a strange, unpleasant scent, while some think the texture is watery. Nonetheless, a lot of people like this facial oil as it effectively tightens pores, diminishes acne scars, and reduces discoloration. Many others further share that it's moisturizing and makes their skin look plump and bright.
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Cons:
Sunday Riley's facial oil features a combination of vitamin C and golden turmeric extract, all of which have strong antioxidant properties. Specifically, vitamin C helps brighten the skin, increase its firmness, and fights wrinkles. Golden turmeric evens out the skin tones and reduces inflammation. There are also ginger root extract and bisabolol to improve your complexion.
According to a few buyers, this oil takes a long time to absorb into the skin. Another concern for buyers is the overwhelming scent. However, many reviewers say this facial oil is a must-have product for fading dark spots, wrinkles, and fine lines. They also confirm that it keeps their dry skin hydrated and gives it a nice glow.
Pros:
Cons:
This facial oil uses many nourishing oils, including seaberry oil, cranberry seed oil, and camellia seed oil to enhance the skin's elasticity and neutralize free radical damage. The formula also contains rosemary leaf extract, which has anti-inflammatory properties to soothe the skin.
Although a couple of buyers are disappointed that this facial oil leaves their skin feeling greasy, many others praise its moisturizing properties. They further mention that it makes their skin look glowy and smooth without triggering any allergic reactions.
Here's a tried-and-true facial oil that Dr. Levy recommends to patients of all skin types. And, it's only one ingredient!
Dr. Levy says, "ClarityRX 100% squalane oil is a wonderful addition for all skin types, including those with eczema, rosacea, and acne.
It provides hydration and gives the skin a glowing appearance, making it a great addition to all skincare regimens. It has no scent and can be used on top of a topical retinol or retinoid to add extra hydration to the skin."
Still have some questions about facial oils for your dry skin? Dr. Levy has the answers - at least, to some of the most commonly asked questions on the Internet!
Dr. Levy says, "Dry skin is caused by increased water loss through the skin. The skin has a barrier that is akin to brick and mortar. Water can be lost through the barrier if it's damaged.
Some people have a genetic tendency to dry skin because of missing or impaired parts of the barrier. The loss of humidity also leads to increased transepidermal water loss (TEWL) through the skin. As water is lost through the skin, the skin becomes dry and dehydrated."
Dr. Levy says, "Dry skin is not the same as eczema, but having dry skin or a tendency towards dry skin makes you more prone to develop eczema. Eczema is when the skin becomes red, inflamed, and itchy and can result from having dry skin.
It's possible to have dry skin without developing eczema. Keeping the skin hydrated and moist can certainly prevent eczema flares and keep eczema controlled."
Dr. Levy says, "It really depends on what kind of facial oil you're using and what the ingredients are. Oils with vitamin C should be applied in the morning to give the maximum photoprotective benefit. Those with anti-aging products can be used at night. Those that provide hydration, like ones with squalene or hyaluronic acid, can be applied twice a day.
In any case, a good rule of thumb is to apply the oil to a face that is clean or freshly cleansed. I recommend applying prescription skin medications like acne medication, melasma medication, or antiaging medication first, then the skin oil.
For daytime use, you can put a facial SPF right over the oil. You can also add a cream-based or lotion moisturizer over the oil if it's not hydrating enough, like in the winter or if your skin is extra-dry."
Using facial oil is not enough to protect your dry skin from the elements. Check out the following products to know what else you need for your skincare routine!
If you still haven't found a suitable facial oil after reading our list of favorites, give Amazon's best-sellers list a look!
This expert reviewed the contents of the buying guide for accuracy and provided factual corrections when necessary. They did not participate in the product selection process, nor are they affiliated with any of our choices unless explicitly stated so.
The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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