Best Face Oils: Dermatologist-Approved Picks

There’s something undeniably luxurious about a good face oil. Just a few drops can leave skin softer, more radiant, and perfectly nourished. Whether your goal is to smooth fine lines, calm irritation, or simply boost your glow, the right facial oil can make a visible difference—without feeling heavy or greasy.

What Are Face Oils and Why Should You Use Them?

Face oils are skincare formulas made with plant-derived oils rich in antioxidants, fatty acids, and vitamins. Ingredients like jojoba, argan, marula, and rosehip nourish deeply, helping the skin stay hydrated, smooth, and protected. Unlike heavier creams, they absorb easily, strengthening the moisture barrier, reducing inflammation, and leaving behind a healthy, radiant glow.

Dermatologists often recommend them for people struggling with dryness, dullness, or premature aging, but they can also benefit oily and sensitive skin when chosen correctly.

How Do Face Oils Work on Skin?

The science behind face oils lies in their lipid-rich structure, which mimics the skin’s natural sebum. This allows them to:

• Reinforce the skin barrier → protecting against pollutants, UV rays, and free radicals.
• Deeply hydrate → locking in moisture without evaporating quickly like water-based creams.
• Soothe and calm → anti-inflammatory compounds reduce redness and irritation.
• Target aging concerns → antioxidants stimulate collagen, plump skin, and soften wrinkles.

An article published in the International Journal of Molecular Science by Tzu-Kai Lin, Lily Zhong and Juan Luis Santiago explored the anti-inflammatory and skin barrier properties and benefits of some plant oils.

Quick Picks: Top Face Oils for Every Skin Concern

• Best overall: WOWMD Gua Sha Face Oil
• Best for Dry Skin: WOWMD Nourishing Jojoba Face Oil
• Best for Anti-Aging: Beverly Hills MD Brighten + Tighten Restorative Facial Oil
• Best Natural Oil for Face: Le Prunier Plum Beauty Oil
• Best for Glowing Skin: Herbivore Phoenix Cell Regenerating Facial Oil
• Best Value: Burt’s Bees Facial Oil
• Best Nighttime Oil: Kiehl’s Midnight Recovery Concentrate
• Best Luxury: Drunk Elephant Virgin Marula Luxury Facial Oi
• Best for Sensitive Skin: The Ordinary 100% Organic Cold-Pressed Rose Hip Seed Oil
• Best Moisturizing: La Mer The Renewal Oil

How Did We Evaluate Face Oils?

Our team of experts, including leading board certified dermatologists, assessed the market to determine the best facial oil formulas. Our selection process included:

• Dermatologist recommendations & peer-reviewed studies.
• Ingredient quality (antioxidants, fatty acids, non-comedogenic rating).
• Brand reputation & safety (FDA-registered facilities, third-party tested).
• User feedback across different skin types.
• Value for price compared with alternatives.
• Return policies & guarantees for customer trust.

Guide to the Best Face Oils – Find Your Perfect Match

WOWMD

Gua Sha Face Oil

Price: $63.75

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Enhance your skincare routine with WOWMD Gua Sha Face Oil — a luxurious blend of botanical oils carefully formulated to support hydration, skin radiance, and elasticity.* Infused with Rosehip, Vitamin E, and powerful oils like Pomegranate Seed and Camellia, this deeply nourishing face oil promotes natural skin rejuvenation, helping minimize fine lines and promote a smooth, glowing complexion.

Pros

1. Promotes skin elasticity and a youthful appearance*
2. Hydrates and revitalizes for a glowing complexion*
3. Helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles*

Cons

1. Require consistent use for best results

Key Ingredients:

Pomegranate, Baobab, and Camellia oils, Rosehip and Vitamin E, essential fatty acids and antioxidants

Key Facts

Skin Type: All skin types | Size: 1 fl oz (30 ml) | Serving Size: 2–3 drops | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Container Type: Glass dropper bottle | Brand: WOWMD

WOWMD

Nourishing Jojoba Face Oil

Price: $75.65

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Treat your skin to the pure, soothing power of WOWMD Nourishing Jojoba Face Oil — a lightweight, non-comedogenic formula designed to deeply hydrate, calm, and restore balance to your complexion*. Crafted with Jojoba seed oil, Squalane, and Magnolia Bark extract, this luxurious face oil mirrors your skin’s natural oils, providing essential moisture without clogging pores*. Enriched with Bisabolol and a blend of plant-based extracts, it nurtures your skin, reducing redness and promoting a radiant, even tone*.

Pros

1. Deeply hydrates and nourishes without clogging pores*
2. Reduces redness and irritation for a calm, balanced complexion*
3. Promotes skin recovery after environmental stressors*

Cons

1. Needs ongoing use for optimal effectiveness

Key Ingredients:

Magnolia Bark Extract and Bisabolol, Jojoba Seed Oil and Squalane

Key Facts

Skin Type: Sensitive, dry, and combination | Size: 1 fl oz (30 ml) | Serving Size: A few drops | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Container Type: Glass dropper bottle | Brand: WOWMD

Beverly Hills MD

Brighten + Tighten Restorative Facial Oil

Price: $44.00

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This fast-absorbing lipid solution provides a noticeable, temporary ‘tightened’ appearance and a brighter, youthful radiance.

Pros

1. Provides temporary tightening effect for sagging skin
2. Diminishes dark spots for a brighter look
3. Smooths fine lines and wrinkles by plumping skin appearance

Cons

1. Results are temporary and require continuous use
2. Contains silicones, which may not suit all users

Key Ingredients:

L22, Neodermyl, BV-OSC (advanced Vitamin C), Water/Aqua/Eau, Dimethicone, Cyclohexasiloxane, Isononyl Isononanoate, Glycerin, Caprylic/Capric Triglycerides

Key Facts

Skin Type: Mature, dull, and aging skin | Size: 1 fl oz (30 ml) | Serving Size: Few drops | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Container Type: Pump bottle | Brand: Beverly Hills MD

Le Prunier

Plum Beauty Oil

Price: $72

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Le Prunier Plum Beauty Oil is crafted from cold-pressed plum oil, a powerhouse rich in antioxidants, omega fatty acids, and vitamins. This simple yet potent formula helps lock in hydration, support elasticity, and soften the look of fine lines and wrinkles while protecting the skin against environmental stressors.

Pros

1. Lightweight and fast-absorbing
2. Hydrates and nourishes skin
3. Protects against free radical damage

Cons

1. May not provide enough hydration for very dry skin

Key Ingredients:

Cold-pressed Plum Oil (polyphenols, omega fatty acids, vitamins A & E)

Key Facts

Skin Type: All skin types | Size: 1 fl oz (30 ml) | Serving Size: Few drops | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Container Type: Bottle | Brand: Le Prunier

Herbivore

Phoenix Cell Regenerating Facial Oil

Price: $58

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Herbivore Phoenix Cell Regenerating Facial Oil is a luxurious blend of CoQ10, rosehip, and botanical oils designed to deeply replenish moisture and restore vitality. Perfect for dry or tired skin, it smooths texture, boosts radiance, and leaves skin soft without a greasy finish.

Pros

1. Revitalizes dry, tired skin
2. Improves skin texture and tone
3. Vegan, plant-based, and cruelty-free

Cons

1. May feel too rich for oily or acne-prone skin

Key Ingredients:

Rosehip Oil, CoQ10, Vitamin E, Antioxidants

Key Facts

Skin Type: All skin types (best for dry) | Size: 1.7 fl oz (50 ml) | Serving Size: 4–6 drops | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Container Type: Bottle | Brand: Herbivore

Burt’s Bees

Facial Oil

Price: $39.95

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Burt’s Bees Facial Oil combines rosehip, jojoba, and evening primrose oils to deliver deep hydration and nourishment. Affordable and natural, this lightweight oil helps smooth fine lines, reduce dullness, and leave skin glowing without harsh ingredients.

Pros

1. Budget-friendly and 100% natural origin
2. Hydrates and smooths fine lines
3. Lightweight and absorbs easily

Cons

1. Small bottle size (0.5 fl oz)
2. May require reapplication for very dry skin

Key Ingredients:

Rosehip Seed Extract, Jojoba Oil, Evening Primrose Oil

Key Facts

Skin Type: All skin types (especially dry/aging) | Size: 0.5 fl oz (15 ml) | Serving Size: 2–3 drops | Cruelty-Free: Yes (Leaping Bunny Certified) | Container Type: Bottle | Brand: Burt’s Bees

Kiehl’s

Midnight Recovery Concentrate

Price: $34.00 (0.5 fl oz / 15 ml)

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Kiehl’s Midnight Recovery Concentrate is a restorative nighttime oil designed to refresh tired, stressed skin. Infused with lavender essential oil, evening primrose oil, and other botanicals, it helps replenish moisture, improve elasticity, and reduce visible signs of aging while you sleep.

Pros

1. Restores skin overnight for a refreshed look
2. Targets fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots
3. Lightweight, fast-absorbing texture

Cons

1. Contains fragrance (not ideal for very sensitive skin)
2. Premium price for a small size

Key Ingredients:

Lavender Essential Oil, Evening Primrose Oil, Jojoba Oil, Botanical Blend

Key Facts

Skin Type: All skin types | Size: 0.5 fl oz (15 ml) | Serving Size: Few drops | Cruelty-Free: No (Kiehl’s is not 100% cruelty-free) | Container Type: Bottle with dropper | Brand: Kiehl’s

Drunk Elephant

Virgin Marula Luxury Facial Oil

Price: $42.00 (0.5 fl oz / 15 ml)

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Drunk Elephant Virgin Marula Luxury Facial Oil is made with 100% pure, cold-pressed marula oil to deeply hydrate, smooth texture, and boost skin radiance. Known for its antioxidant and omega-rich profile, this lightweight oil absorbs quickly and helps soften fine lines and improve elasticity.

Pros

1. Pure, single-ingredient formula for sensitive skin
2. Hydrates and improves elasticity
3. Free from essential oils, silicones, and fragrance

Cons

1. Higher price for a small bottle
2. May feel too rich for oily or acne-prone skin

Key Ingredients:

Marula Oil, Vitamin E (Tocopherol), Glycerin, Antioxidants

Key Facts

Skin Type: All skin types (including sensitive) | Size: 0.5 fl oz (15 ml) | Serving Size: 2–3 drops | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Container Type: Bottle with dropper | Brand: Drunk Elephant

The Ordinary

100% Organic Cold-Pressed Rose Hip Seed Oil

Price: $10.90 (1 fl oz / 30 ml)

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This 100% organic, cold-pressed rosehip seed oil is a simple yet powerful formula that hydrates, nourishes, and supports skin elasticity. Known for its ability to brighten uneven tone and reduce signs of aging, it’s especially beneficial for dry, sensitive, and mature skin.

Pros

1. Affordable and high quality
2. Hydrates and supports skin elasticity
3. Great for uneven tone and mature skin

Cons

1. Has a natural earthy scent some may not like
2. Can feel a little heavy on oily skin

Key Ingredients:

Rosehip Seed Oil (rich in essential fatty acids, Vitamin A, and antioxidants)

Key Facts

Skin Type: Normal, Dry, Combination, Oily | Size: 1 fl oz (30 ml) | Serving Size: Few drops | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Container Type: Bottle with dropper | Brand: The Ordinary

La Mer

The Renewal Oil

Price: $124.28 (0.5 fl oz / 15 ml)

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A luxurious dual-phase oil infused with La Mer’s signature Miracle Broth™ and nutrient-rich sea-sourced oils. It helps hydrate, smooth fine lines, and restore skin’s youthful glow while leaving it soft, plump, and radiant.

Pros

1. Deeply hydrating and nourishing
2. Improves elasticity and fine lines
3. A little goes a long way

Cons

1. Very expensive
2. May feel too rich for oily or acne-prone skin

Key Ingredients:

Miracle Broth™, Meadowfoam Oil, Jojoba Oil, Sunflower Seed Oil, Cranberry Oil, Eucalyptus Oil, Algae Extract

Key Facts

Skin Type: Normal, Dry, Combination | Size: 0.5 fl oz (15 ml) | Serving Size: 3–5 drops | Cruelty-Free: No | Container Type: Bottle | Brand: La Mer

What to Look for in a Face Oil

With so many facial oils available, choosing the right one depends on your skin type, concerns, and formula preferences. Here are the key things to keep in mind:

Ingredients That Work

Look for oils packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and essential fatty acids, as these deliver the most noticeable benefits:

• Rosehip Oil + Vitamin E → Rich in fatty acids, they help fade scars, brighten skin, and fight free radical damage. (Source)
• Pomegranate Seed + Camellia Oil → Known for their anti-aging and hydrating properties, these oils smooth fine lines and support elasticity. (Source)
• Jojoba Seed Oil + Squalane → Lightweight, non-comedogenic hydrators that mimic skin’s natural sebum, making them perfect for oily or acne-prone skin. (Source)
• Magnolia Bark Extract + Vitamin C → Calm irritation while boosting radiance and evening out skin tone. (Source)
• Argan Oil → A classic multitasker, it hydrates deeply, reduces inflammation, and improves overall skin texture. (Source)

Texture & Skin Type

• Light oils (like jojoba, squalane, rosehip) → great for oily or acne-prone skin.
• Richer oils (like argan, pomegranate seed, camellia) → ideal for dry or mature skin.
  Choose the texture you’ll actually enjoy applying—comfort matters as much as effectiveness.

Fragrance

If you have sensitive skin, stick to fragrance-free options or oils with minimal natural scent. Some essential oils and extracts can be irritating, even if they’re naturally derived.

Packaging & Applicator

Opt for dark glass bottles to protect delicate oils from light exposure, and droppers or push-button applicators for easy, hygienic dosing.

Choosing the Right Face Oil for Your Skin Type

Not every oil suits every complexion. Here’s a dermatologist-approved guide:

• Dry skin → Look for argan oil, marula oil, plum oil (deep hydration + barrier repair).
• Oily/Acne-prone skin → Choose lightweight, non-comedogenic options like rosehip oil or jojoba oil.
• Sensitive skin → Gentle oils such as plum, squalane, or jojoba reduce irritation.
• Mature skin → Antioxidant-packed oils like marula, rosehip, and vitamin C oils target wrinkles and elasticity.
• Combination skin → Use balancing oils like grapeseed or jojoba that hydrate without clogging pores.

Always check if the product is labeled non-comedogenic and patch test before full use.

Common Myths About Face Oils

Many skincare users hesitate to try oils because of misconceptions. Let’s clear them up:

• Myth 1: Oils cause breakouts.
  Reality: Non-comedogenic oils like jojoba or rosehip won’t clog pores and can actually balance oil production.
• Myth 2: Oils replace moisturizers.
  Reality: Oils lock in hydration but don’t provide water content, so they work best when layered over a moisturizer.
• Myth 3: Oily skin types should avoid oils.
  Reality: The right lightweight oils regulate sebum and can reduce excess shine.
• Myth 4: All oils are greasy.
  Reality: Many modern facial oils absorb quickly without leaving residue.

Face Oils vs Serums vs Moisturizers

• Face Oils → Seal in hydration, strengthen skin barrier, protect against oxidative stress.
• Serums → Deliver targeted active ingredients (like Vitamin C, Retinol, Hyaluronic Acid) into deeper skin layers.
• Moisturizers → Provide both water + oil balance to keep skin plump and hydrated.

The best routine: Serum → Moisturizer → Face Oil (to seal everything in).

How to Apply Face Oils Correctly

To maximize results:

• Cleanse & tone your face.
• Apply serum and moisturizer first.
• Use 2–3 drops of oil, warming it between your palms before gently pressing into the skin.
• For anti-aging benefits, combine with gua sha or facial massage to boost circulation.
• Use morning + evening, or just at night if you have oily skin.

For better results, combine your facial oil application with face massage techniques to promote circulation and relaxation. Don’t overuse → more oil ≠ more hydration. Stick to the recommended drops.

FAQs