15 Best Natural Face Oils

It can be hard to find the best face oil with how many there are on the market. I am breaking it down to my top 15 picks that will bring you so many skincare benefits when used on a consistent basis!

I am bringing you a round-up of the best natural face oils. While I think way more people are aware of the benefits of using a facial oil in their skin care routine, I know there are still plenty that are afraid to add an oil in and are then missing out on the many benefits there are. I have tested and used countless oils over the years and I am bringing you the very best facial oils so you can find the one that will work best for you!

*Affiliate Disclosure: I do have affiliate links in this blog post. If you purchase something from my link, I will receive a small commission from the sale. This comes at no cost to you but is paid by the company. I do not take becoming an affiliate with any company lightly. If I am, it’s because I believe in the company and their product.

*Suzi (Gurl Gone Green) is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com.

Le Prunier Plum Beauty Oil

Best Natural Face Oil

There are so many natural face oils on the market that I love. However, if I had to pick the face oil that I think is the best and would work well for the most people, I would pick Le Prunier’s Plum Beauty Oil. It works great for all skin types and is made from just one ingredient – plum oil! And to step it up another notch their plum oil is even organic. You really can’t get more clean and natural as far as ingredients go! Check out my full review below.

Are oils actually good for your face?

Simply put, yes! A natural face oil is absolutely good for your face. Whether it be from the use of even the most gentle of cleansers or just exposure to environmental elements, you will want to replenish the oil that is naturally in your skin. 

A facial oil is EXACTLY what it sounds like. It is an oil based skincare product that is designed to be used on your face.

You want an oil to have a blend of essential fatty acids (EFA’s) or omegas. Our bodies don’t produce EFA’s on their own so we need to supplement them internally and externally. Oils also can contain a mix of essential oils that help to balance the skin and provide therapeutic properties. Oils work perfectly with our skin’s cutaneous and get to the center of the epidermis.

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Face oils can come with a variety of benefits for your skin!

Benefits of Using A Facial Oil

There are many benefits that can be achieved when using a facial oil, it really just depends on what oil you choose, what other active ingredients are in the products and if you are consistent in using it. This study looked at the potential benefits of topically applying a variety of plant oils. They were able to conclude that these oils could do the following:

  • Strengthen the skin barrier
  • Antioxidant Properties
  • Anti-Inflammatory Properties
  • Anti-Microbial Properties
  • Promotion of Wound Healing

Personally I have noted a variety of changes to my skin with consistent use of a face oil. Like I said, different oil products will have different results for your skin. So depending on where you are looking for improvements in your skin that may guide which type of oil you want to use.

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The are so many amazing natural face oils – it wasn’t hard to come up with my top 15!

Here is a closer look at some of the best oils used in skincare products.

Squalane Oil

A more stable version of squalene oil, which is found naturally in our body but we produce less of it as we age. When applied topically squalane has been shown to be critical in reducing damage caused by free radicals. This damage includes things like fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots to name a few.

Jojoba Oil

This oil is a liquid that comes from the jojoba plant. Historically it has been known to have been used to treat a wide variety of ailments (anything from skin issues, to improvements in liver function or even improved immune function)and studies show it to be an antioxidant, anti-acne and antipsoriasis, anti-inflammatory and antifungal. This makes it a great oil to be used in skincare products.

Rosehip Oil (also called Rosehip Seed Oil)

This oil comes from the fruit of the wild rose bush. It has high levels of fatty acids and antioxidants making it protective against inflammation and oxidative stress.

Chia Seed Oil

Coming from the chia seed, chia oil is heralded for its fast absorbing ability, but also for its antioxidants, minerals, and omega’s. It has even been found to have the highest level of antioxidants ever measured by the Nutritional Science Research Institute – talk about a treat for your skin!

Marula Oil

Coming from the marula fruit that is found in Africa, marula oil has been used for centuries as a way to protect hair and skin against the harsh sun and environment. Beyond being packed full of antioxidants and fatty acids, this oil has been shown to inhibit the enzymes that break down elastin – a major anti-aging benefit!

Blue Tansy Oil

This is definitely the prettiest and most distinct looking oil – coming in a beautiful blue color along with a slightly sweet scent. But beyond that, it is packed with the antioxidant Chamazulene. While this is what is responsible for the blue color, it is also what helps it to calm inflamed and irritated skin along with fighting free radical damage.

Meadowfoam Seed Oil

This oil is packed full of Vitamin E and fatty acids (specifically eicosenoic), meaning not only will it help fight off free radical damage but also has the potential to reduce UV induced skin damage. This study confirmed the antioxidant and anti-aging properties and this study confirmed there are two compounds in this oil that will protect your skin against UV damage.


Prickly Pear Oil

This oil comes from the seed of the prickly pear. It has been shown to have antioxidant and antibacterial properties.

Apricot Oil

This oil has been shown to have anti-aging, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties

Plum Oil

A lightweight oil that is full of skin loving vitamins and fatty acids and has a very slight sweet smell to it. Even better, its full of antioxidants that help fight free radical damage. It’s also rich in Vitamins A and E which will support healing and hydration.

Pomegranate Seed Oil

Full of fatty acids as well as a high concentration of polyphenolic compounds, the pomegranate seed oil is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Baobab Oil

Coming from the baobab tree in Africa, this oil has been known to be used for many purposes inlcuding food, medicinal or skincare. As far as skincare benefits, the anti inflammatory fatty acids presents may help with irritation, redness and even acne. All this while improving the skin’s barrier and helping to lock in hydration.

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15 Best Natural Facial Oils

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Natural Facial Oils FAQ’s

Aren’t oils bad for oily or acne-prone skin?

Many people with oily skin think they should avoid oils- when really the opposite is true. Using the right oil will help bring balance to the skin and won’t clog pores like other moisturizers that contain emulsifiers, waxes, etc.

Do face oils cause acne?

It really depends on the oil type when wondering if face oils cause acne.  Oils can fall into two categories, comedogenic and non-comedogenic.  Comedogenic ingredients are ingredients that can clog pores, cause blackheads and ultimately worsen acne, perioral dermatitis or trigger it.  I would avoid these oils if you have acne. 


However, there are oils that are non-comedogenic or are closer to being non-comedogenic and are a better option for acne skin.  Some of my favorite non-comedogenic oils are squalane, rosehip oil, prickly pear seed oil, pomegranate oil and meadowfoam seed oil. The best way to see if you react to oils with acne skin is to patch test an area first.

How can I incorporate face oils into my skincare routine?

The order I recommend for applying skincare products is as follows:
-Cleanser
-Toner
-Serum
-Lotion/Cream
-Eye Serum
-Oil

The best part, just a few drops of your oil are enough to cover the entire face.

Not everyone will need or want to use all of these products, but this is the order to apply the products for best results.

Can I use face oils if I have sensitive skin?

Yes, you can. In fact, some face oils are known for their soothing properties. However, always patch test a new product to ensure it doesn’t irritate your skin.

Do facial oils actually moisturize the skin?

Face oils add no hydration to the skin, however they do add nourishment and help to retain the moisture that is already present by sealing in the moisture.  Similar to plastic wrap for the skin.

Do I need a moisturizer if I use a face oil?

Ultimately it depends on your skin type if you want to use a moisturizer and a face oil. My skin is dry, so I really like using a face moisturizer first to moisturize my skin and a face oil as the last step in my skincare routine to help seal in the moisture. I especially like to do this in the winter. But, if you have a more oily skin type, for example, you may find no need for it.

How do you apply face oils?

The best way to apply a face oil is to take just a couple drops and, using your fingers, press the oil into your skin. You won’t want to rub an oil in like you would other products. The pressing is what allows your skin to really absorb the product.  You want to apply an oil after a moisturizer if you’re using one since it helps to seal the moisture in.

    What’s your favorite natural face oil?

    If you liked this post, check out these past posts:

    Cheers, Suzi

    Suzi

    Suzi is a wife, and mama who is passionate about sharing her natural lifestyle with those around her. She created Gurl Gone Green to show how our everyday decisions, from what we use on our face, home and the food we eat affect us more than we know. She loves holding space where people can weed through the marketing clutter to find truth, and ultimately make the best decision for their families.

    6 Comments

    1. Amanda

      Hey Suzi! Great post! One question on the order of application. I understood oils were always last bc of their high molecular weight. I’ve always heard face creams, eye creams, then oils last. What are your thoughts? Thanks!

      Reply
      • Suzi

        Hi Amanda,

        Yes, you can definitely do that order and I recommend it for dry skin. However, if you don’t need the additional moisture It’s fine to apply after. I’ll address this in the post as I know others had questions on this. Thanks for your feedback!

        Reply
    2. lauren

      I’m surprised to see you recommend moisturizer/lotion last (after oil) as everything I’ve read online suggests the opposite — that oil should be last!?

      Reply
      • Suzi

        Hi Lauren,

        You can apply a facial moisturizer after cleansing and before an oil if you need additional moisture to your skin. Depends on how dry your skin is.

        Reply
    3. VINEVIDA

      This article beautifully captures the essence of these natural face oils, which work harmoniously with our skin to bring out its natural radiance. It easier for readers to find the perfect fit for their skincare routine.

      Reply
      • Suzi

        Glad you liked it!

        Reply

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