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.
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.
Related Content: Best Body Oils
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.
Related Content: Best Hyaluronic Acid Serums
Most Popular Oils Used for Skincare
Here is a closer look at some of the best oils used in skincare products.
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.
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.
This oil comes from the seed of the prickly pear. It has been shown to have antioxidant and antibacterial properties.
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.
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.
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.
Related Content: Best Face Moisturizers (For Your Skin Type)
15 Best Natural Facial Oils
Le Prunier Plum Oil
Best for: All skin types, but especially sensitive, congested and dry skin
A multi-purpose oil – with just ONE ingredient – that is meant to help balance the skin as well as restore and refresh it.
Review
This oil really takes the cake when it comes to a face oil for many reasons. First, I love how it only has one ingredient. Just one! This keeps things so clean and pure. They step it up a notch and the plum oil is organic too! It is a rich feeling oil and moisturizes the skin so well. There is no greasy residue and it is so lightweight. It also absorbs nicely into the skin. It packs a punch as far as effective facial oils when it comes to working at minimizing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. They have before and after photos on their website that really speak to the effectiveness of the product. It smells like a poppy seed muffin- need I say more?! I really can’t stop using this- SO good.
Cost
$72
Related Content: Le Prunier Review
Maya Chia The Straight A Serum
Best for: Mature skin and acne-prone skin types
Using chia seed and buriti oil that will moisturize and nourish the skin plus added actives like Encapsulated Retinol, Bakuchiol, Moth Bean extract combined with Vitamin C and Vitamin A – gives you an extremely effective face oil!
Review
This is a very active facial oil. I love that it not only moisturizes with chia oil and buriti but also delivers some serious benefits when it comes to helping target mature skin. Since it not only contains retinol, but also Vitamins C & E, it really works well to not only target fine lines and wrinkles but also brighten skin overall. After using this for 2 months I noticed my hyperpigmentation faded and my skin looked visibly brighter and smoother. It was a completely new youthful look overall. If you’re looking for an oil that delivers on the aging gracefully front, this is it!
Cost
$125
Maya Chia The Super Couple Astaxanthin + Chia Face Oil
Best for: All skin types
This oil combines the omega fatty acids, antioxidants & minerals of chia oil with astaxanthin. Astaxanthin is an extremely powerful antioxidant that combats things like fine lines and dull skin.
Review
This was the first face oil I used years and years ago that I really fell hard for! I remember using it consistently for just 2 weeks and was amazed at the difference I already saw in my skin. My skin was more even and there was this one hyperpigmentation spot that I already could see was less noticeable. I had a glow to my skin and it was more smooth. I love how this oil melts right into your skin and doesn’t leave behind an oily residue at all. Just plump, balanced skin. I love the slight pinkish hue to the oil. I call it my first love when it comes to a facial oil because it’s what started my love of facial oils!
Cost
$86
Maya Super Naked Plum + Chia Face Oil
Best for: Sensitive skin, dry skin.
This product is a combination of 3 ingredients: Organic Chia oil, Organic Virgin Plum oil and Astaxanthin. Making this a simple yet powerful product!
Review
This is Maya Chia’s newest product. It really is another star product in their skincare lineup. You might be thinking what’s the difference. Allow me to explain. The Maya Chia Plum + Chia oil only contains 3 ingredients as opposed to their other facial oils. It also doesn’t have any essential oils in it either. They paired their star ingredient chia oil with plum oil and then infused super antioxidant astaxanthin to it to help combat free radicals. Astaxanthin is 65x stronger than Vitamin C. This oil absorbs quickly and is lightweight. It feels so nourishing on the skin and doesn’t feel heavy. I love how simple the ingredients are, yet powerful. As you read earlier, plum and chia oil alone are both star skin ingredients used to help fight signs of aging and help to add a brightness to the skin. My skin felt so supple and hydrated after using.
Cost
$70
Related Content: Maya Chia Review
BYBI Bakuchiol Booster
Best for: All skin types, especially mature skin.
With just 2 ingredients (squalane and bakuchiol) you can’t go wrong with this oil. This oil aims to improve your skin’s texture while stimulating collagen production – while remaining budget friendly!
Review
This was seriously a find last year! You can find this oil at Target and for only $10 – talk about a steal. It’s so pure and simple too. With just two all star ingredients, squalane and bakuchiol in it. Don’t let the small ingredient list fool you. After using this for several weeks I could notice my skin had a glow to it and brightness. It felt so nourished too. Even my V.A.(virtual assistant) agreed she was impressed with the overall effectiveness. I love the minimal ingredients, price and overall brightness my skin showed.
Cost
$10
Related Content: BYBI Review
Primally Pure Plumping Serum
Best for: Dry, mature skin.
By combining pomegranate seed oil and castor oil with green coffee oil and astaxanthin, this facial oil moisturizes, stimulates collagen synthesis while improving elasticity and skin tone.
Review
This oil is so decadent and rich feeling. It really delivers intense nourishment to the skin. My skin feels so good in the morning after applying it at night. I love that it not only moisturizes but also gives my skin some actives to help fight signs of aging. My skin feels plumped up just like the name suggests. I love that all the ingredients are organic and it’s more of a mid-range price point compared to other clean facial oil brands.
Cost
$52
Beuti Sleep Elixir
Best for: All skin types
This product combines 14 plant oils to nourish the skin with omega fatty acids, vitamins and minerals.
Review
I discovered this oil years ago and fell hard for it and then when I found out The Duchess of Cambridge was a huge fan as well I knew I had discovered something great! I love how this oil has so many omegas in it- my skin instantly feels boosted and plump when using it. I feel like it does it all from targeting signs of aging, to relieving congested skin. It seeps into my skin so well and doesn’t feel greasy. I love how refreshed I look in the morning after using!
Cost
$70
Indie Lee Squalane Facial Oil
Best for: Sensitive skin, dry skin, angry skin
A moisturizing facial oil with just a single ingredient – squalane oil derived from olives – this oil will leave your skin soft and nourished
Review
I really, really love squalane oil! I always have a bottle of this in my skincare arsenal. One, it moisturizes my skin so well without it feeling oily, but soaks into the skin perfectly. I also love it because it is a truly pure facial oil with just one ingredient, squalane. Squalane has been known to help moisturize the skin, and calm it, plus it’s even been shown to help with signs of aging. Its ability to penetrate the skin so well is one thing that really sets it apart. My skin even later in the day feels so moisturized. Great to have if you are experiencing extra dry or sensitive skin or even skin inflammation as it just contains one ingredient.
Cost
$36
True Botanicals Pure Radiance Oil (Renew, Clear or Calm)
Best for: Dry skin/ mature skin skin, congested/oily skin, or inflamed/red/rosacea skin.
True Botanicals brings 3 different facial oils that will help combat any skin issues you are wanting to address.
Review
This oil has really stood the test of time. I started using it 7 years ago and knew it was special the first time I tried it. I love how this oil revives my skin. Whenever my skin feels dull I know this oil will perk it right up. Not only does it contain ceramides but also fatty acids and antioxidants. They have three options depending on your skin type. I love the Renew for my dry skin. But if you have oily, congested skin you may love the Clear or if you have inflamed, red or rosacea you may love the Calm. I apply this morning and night and it’s like a big gulp of nutrition, and brightness for my skin.
Cost
$110
Related Content: Top 10 True Botanicals Products
Goldfaden MD Radiance Repair
Best for: Dry, mature skin
This product combines multiple oils (sunflower seed oil, meadowfoam seed oil, baobab oil, linseed seed oil and raspberry seed oil) to moisturize and minimize signs of aging.
Review
I discovered this little beauty last year and I was definitely in LOVE after using it the first time. So much so I’m now almost on my third bottle! It gives my skin a cushion like effect after using. My skin feels moisturized the entire day. I typically don’t even need another layer of lotion/cream after which is saying a lot for my dry skin. My skin feels plumped and I have a dewy glow. I have never used a product like this. It diffuses my fine lines and is perfect before makeup. I’m warning you, you may become addicted!
Cost
$95
Use Code GGG20 for 20% off your entire order (minimum purchase of $50). One use per customer and can’t be combined with other offers.
Related Content: Goldfaden MD Vital Boost Moisturizer Review
Laurel Sun Serum
Best for: All skin types
This has 27 active ingredients that target sun damage, fine lines and wrinkles, as well as overall skin rejuvenation. Plus, it helps to protect the skin from future skin damage too.
Review
Talk about a loaded oil. It melts right into your skin and smells like sandalwood and rosehip. I’ve used this for several months at a time and saw a great difference in brightening of dark spots from sun exposure. They were less pigmented and I found it really helped with redness in my skin too. This is completely plant based and organic!
Cost
$96
Henne Illumine Face Oil
Best for: All skin types
With ingredients like elderberry oil, cloudberry oil, baobab oil, bearberry extract this face oil will work to brighten, moisturize and revitalize your skin.
Review
This was a new product I was introduced to last year. It feels so luxe on the skin. The fatty acids really stand out in the formula and give my skin the plumped dewy finish I love. The consistency is rich but when applying it melts right into the skin and doesn’t feel greasy. Truly a skin treat!
Cost
$111
Live Botanical First Light Brightening Oil
Best for: Acne prone, mature and sensitive skin types
This is an oil that promotes collagen production as well as addresses concerns like scarring, fine lines and discoloration.
Review
Oh I love this oil! The founder Carolyn is so thoughtful in her creations. This is so budget friendly coming in at $68- which for what it does is a steal. It is full of actives that really transform your skin and brighten it just like the name suggests. I use it at night and in the morning. The formula is great at sinking right into your skin. Every morning I loved what a bright and glowing complexion I had. But beyond that I would use it in the morning and felt like it just made my whole face look brighter! It’s a winner all around!
Cost
$68
Use Code GURLGONEGREEN to save 20% off your order.
Herbivore Lapis Facial Oil
Best for: Oily, blemish prone skin, or combination skin as well as skin that needs to be balanced
Combining blue tansy, jojoba oil, squalane and jasmine sambac oil this product helps reduce the appearance of acne and improve skin tone while also keeping moisture in the skin.
Review
This oil contains two of my favorite skincare ingredients- squalane oil and blue tansy. These two together make a great team. I love the soothing properties of blue tansy and smell. My skin felt out of balance over a year ago from just using too many products. My skin barrier was compromised and squalane and blue tansy were two ingredients that my skin could tolerate. They really brought life back to my skin and balance. This moisturizes well, but it’s not greasy, especially for oily skin types. Can’t recommend enough if you’re wanting a non-comedogenic oil that won’t clog pores but is also soothing.
Cost
$72
One Love Organics Botanical C Facial Serum
Best for: All skin types but especially dry skin, dull skin
This product combines multiple oils with 2 source of Vitamin C to moisturize skin and promote a more even skin tone.
Review
This is such a rich decadent oil. I love how nourishing it is on the skin and weighty, really does such a good job of adding moisture to the skin. But it doesn’t just stop there it also contains Vitamin C too. I love using this at night for helping with brightening my skin. It also works in the morning too. I like using it more in the winter when my skin needs a little extra moisturizing. I find in the summer it’s too much since there is more humidity in the air.
Cost
$75
Natural Facial Oils FAQ’s
Can you use face oils on oily 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 squalene, 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.
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.
When in my skincare routine should I apply a face oil?
The order I recommend for applying skincare products is as follows:
- Cleanser
- Toner
- Serum
- Lotion/Cream
- Eye Serum
- Oil
Not everyone will need or want to use all of these products, but this is the order to apply the products for best results.
What’s your favorite natural face oil?
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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!
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!
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!?
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.