When it comes to skincare, there’s a quiet powerhouse many overlook: Oils. From the luxurious arganoil to the humble bottle of baby oil sitting in your bathroom cabinet, oils offer a treasure trove of benefits. And whether your goal is soft, glowing skin or simply locking in moisture, incorporating oils into your routine might just be the glow-up you didn’t know you needed.
Why Oils Deserve a Spot on Your Vanity
First things first: oils aren’t just for dry skin. They serve as moisture sealants, protect the skin barrier, and leave behind a soft, supple finish that moisturizers alone sometimes can’t match. Baby oil, for example, is a lightweight mineral oil that acts as an occlusive, meaning it forms a protective barrier over your skin, preventing water loss and locking in hydration for hours.
Body oils also support the skin barrier, helping soothe irritation and calm inflammation. Whether your skin is dry, flaky, or just needs a little love after sun exposure or a cold snap, oils work overtime to replenish and repair.
But that’s not all—they also help boost skin’s elasticity. Regular use can improve the tone and texture of your skin, helping reduce the appearance of stretch marks, scars, and rough patches.
And let’s not forget the sensual, spa-like glow they leave behind. Many oils contain naturally nourishing ingredients like jojoba, almond, or marula, packed with vitamins and antioxidants that enhance skin health while giving you that lit-from-within radiance.
More Than Moisture: The Many Uses of Oil in Skincare
Oils are incredibly flexible and can be tailored to suit your routine. Use a few drops as the final step in your nighttime regimen to lock in moisture. Add oil to your moisturizer for a dewy finish, or press it gently onto your cheekbones after makeup to create a natural highlight.
As a makeup remover, oils effortlessly break down foundation, sunscreen, and even waterproof mascara without stripping your skin’s natural oils. For shaving, oils can replace cream for a smooth, glide-friendly experience that helps reduce irritation.
Massage oils into your cuticles, elbows, or heels to soften dry, rough areas. Or use them to soothe inflamed or sun-exposed skinnatural oils like calendula or chamomile offer powerful anti-inflammatory properties.
The Oil Rules You Should Know
Using oils correctly can make all the difference. As a general rule, oils should be the final step in your skincare routine, applied after serums and moisturizers to seal everything in. Less is more—a few drops are usually enough, especially if you have oily or acne-prone skin. For first-time users or those with sensitive skin, it’s best to patch test, particularly if the oil is fragranced. And while baby oil works beautifully on the body, it’s wise to choose non-comedogenic options like jojoba or rosehip oil for facial use to avoid clogged pores.
Best Oils for Each Skin Type
For those with dry skin, rich, nourishing oils are essential. Avocado oil is deeply hydrating and loaded with vitamins A, D, and E, making it ideal for rough, thirsty skin. Sweet almond oil, though lightweight, delivers a powerful moisture boost and helps soften flakiness. Argan oil is another favorite, known for restoring elasticity while replenishing moisture with its high vitamin E content. Marula oil, loved for its luxurious texture, deeply hydrates and calms dry, irritated skin.
If you have oily or acne-prone skin, you’ll want to avoid heavy, pore-clogging oils and instead reach for balancing options. Jojoba oil is a go-to, as it closely mimics your skin’s natural sebum and helps regulate oil production. Rosehip seed oil is light and rich in linoleic acid, which acne-prone skin often lacks. It also helps fade scars and hyperpigmentation. Hemp seed oil is another excellent choice—it’s non-comedogenic, anti-inflammatory, and contains a perfect balance of omega fatty acids. For a lightweight, antioxidant-rich option, grapeseed oil delivers hydration without a greasy finish.
Those with combination skin need oils that can hydrate dry areas while not overwhelming oilier zones. Squalane is a top performer—ultra-light, non-greasy, and suitable for all areas of the face. Camellia oil nourishes the skin with antioxidants and absorbs easily, leaving no residue. Rosehip oil is also beneficial here, offering hydration, brightening benefits, and balance for uneven skin textures.
For sensitive skin, calming and gentle oils are essential. Calendula oil is a soothing remedy for redness and inflammation, making it ideal for eczema or rosacea-prone complexions. Chamomile oil has naturally anti-inflammatory properties and provides a soft, comforting effect on irritated skin. Marula oil, known for its rich antioxidant profile, is also incredibly gentle and ideal for reactive skin. Borage seed oil, rich in gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), helps heal and strengthen the skin’s natural barrier.
If you’re navigating the world of mature or aging skin, look for oils that offer both moisture and restorative benefits. Argan oil is a staple for improving elasticity and softening fine lines. Pomegranate seed oil promotes cell regeneration and is packed with antioxidants that target signs of aging. Sea buckthorn oil, rich in vitamins C and E, helps boost collagen and brighten the complexion. Rosehip oil remains a favorite for fading age spots and improving overall tone and texture.
