Tried & Tested: 7 Miracle Facial Oils That Have Transformed My Skin

Ancient Egyptians used to swear by magical oils extracted from fruits and flowers. For Japanese women, oil cleansers are an essential part of their rituals, and even our Indian skincare tradition recommends using specific oil blends for different parts of the body, including the scalp. Then why did we not add them to our face care routine sooner?

My biggest concern was that my face was already oily and prone to acne to handle another added layer of oil. Mixed with this discomfort, my entire childhood was spent using thick, heavy textures of coconut and almond oils for my hair and body during winters. Honestly, that sticky experience didn’t really help make a case for them. But when everyone on Instagram, from influencers, my favourite skincare brands to even dermatologists raved about it, I finally got myself to give facial oils a shot

Cut to the present, and I’ve been addicted to facial oils for the last one and a half years. I’ve used various oils to target different concerns (after quite a bit of trial and error) and I’ve found the perfect oils that suit me. My skin has improved its innate texture, is completely in control of oil production, my hormonal acne has reduced, and my skin has never been so soft and hydrated during the winter months. Below, I’ve listed the various oils I’ve tried, how I’ve added them to my routine and how they have helped my skin over time.

We’re here to tell you that the right facial oil can be absolutely life-changing, and we’re not even being dramatic! Whether they’re concocted from a base of Marula, Coconut or Rosehip, their restorative and hydrating powers supersede sundry skin creams and lotions. The best part? They suit all skin types—even oily and acne-prone skin. The idea may seem insane right? It isn’t. The right composition and ingredients can combat greasiness and also help stabilise and regulate your skin’s sebum production (i.e. your natural skin oil). For best results, look for oils with a smaller molecular size, like Argan, Marula or Jojoba oils because they sink into skin quickly without clogging pores.

What exactly are facial oils?

Face oils are brimming with antioxidants and offer a world of skincare payoffs. The emollients create a film on the surface of the skin and protect the topmost layer of the epidermis rather than sinking in deep like creams do. Along with providing the skin surface with deep hydration, they create a protective barrier against environmental stressors and improve the texture and quality of skin.

Benefits Of Facial Oil

Face oils have officially jumped out of the skincare secret and into the top-shelf must-haves, and for good reason. The best-rated face oil doesn't just feel luxurious—it delivers a powerhouse of benefits your skin will thank you for.

Hydration is a top priority, of course: oil is great for locking in moisture and keeping your skin plump and radiant. And as it turns out, dry skin is not the only skin type they work miracles for, there is the best facial oil for oily skin, too, that can balance excess sebum and calm breakouts.

But it doesn't stop there. Facial oils are filled to the brim with antioxidants, essential fatty acids, and vitamins. So they help fight signs of ageing, lighten dark spots, and give your complexion that lit-from-within glow. Bonus points for choosing a top-rated facial oil infused with natural botanicals like rosehip or squalane.

And let's talk about versatility! Mix a few drops into your moisturiser, dab it over makeup for a dewy finish, or use it as a soothing treatment after a long day.

With all these benefits of face oil, it's no wonder beauty enthusiasts everywhere are obsessed. The right oil can transform your skin—so go ahead and let your face soak in the luxury now.

Things To Consider While Buying Facial Oil

So, you want to jump on the facial oil train-but wait, which facial oil is best for you? With options galore, finding the best-rated face oil is a mix of science and a dash of skincare magic. Don't worry; we've got you covered with the essentials to keep your skin radiant and selfie-ready.

1. Know Your Skin Type

Oily skin? You’re not excluded from the face oil fan club! The best facial oil for oily skin should be one that's lightweight, non-comedogenic (fancy for "won’t clog pores"), and high in ingredients like jojoba or grapeseed oil. For dry skin, go richer with options like argan or marula oil. Combination skin? A mid-weight oil-like rosehip might just be your soulmate.

2. Check the Ingredients

A top-rated facial oil can cut through the jargon. The best oils are enriched with antioxidants, vitamins, and essential fatty acids. Avoid synthetic fragrances, heavy fillers, and mineral oil, which can be a total buzzkill for your skin's glow game.

3. Purpose and Benefits

Wondering what is face oil good for? Think hydration, nourishment, and a luminous finish. The different oils target different concerns like tea tree for acne, squalane for hydration, and tamanu for calming redness. Pick one that aligns with your skin goals.

4. Absorption Matters

Nobody wants to look greasy. Opt for lightweight oils that do not leave the skin sticky. Moreover, the best facial oils can be either very light but subtle to breathable or, depending on your needs and the drier types, sometimes quite rich.

5. Seek Reviews and Ratings

Look for the best face oil by consulting reviews, expert picks, and tried-and-true faves. Feedback is your BFF when narrowing down choices.

9 Best Face Oils

1. Vaadi Herbals Suramya Beautifying Elixir With Saffron Gold Leaves

Whipped into the goodness of Sweet Almond Oil, Kashmiri Saffron and Gold ‘bhasma’ turn your regular skincare routine into a luxe experience. This 100% pure essential oil will hydrate and repair your skin, all the while diminishing blemishes and fine lines for healthier, younger-looking skin.

2. Nykaa Naturals Skin Potion Anti Acne Skincare Face Oil

Once I was convinced that facial oils work, I looked to my favourite brand that I knew would be safe to use on my face. I picked the Nykaa Naturals Anti Acne Face Oil and tried it with my morning skincare ritual. I used the oil before I applied my sunscreen and my skin’s texture instantly changed within a week. My acne visibly reduced, even when I expected hormonal breakouts during my cycle.

3. Plum Grape Seed & Sea Buckthorn Glow-Restore Face Oils Blend

My first winter switch last year was shifting to this bottle of warm goodness. Grapeseed oil is known to moisturise dull and dehydrated skin while sea buckthorn oil heals frostbites, sunburns, and damaged skin. I’ve added this oil to my evening skincare routine specifically during winter. Also, I used it after cleaning my face at night and slept with the oil on like a sleeping mask. I woke up to healthy, hydrated, and healed skin.

4. Kama Ayurveda Jwalini Retexturising Skin Treatment Oil

Formulated with natural herbs, Coconut milk and Sesame oil to leave you with a smooth, refined and radiant complexion. The herbal ingredients, including Costus and Cardamom, when used in tandem, enhance skin texture and reduce skin irritation.

5. Lotus Organics+ Bakuchiol Plant Retinol Miracle Facial Oil

I didn’t know there was a natural way of combating early signs of ageing until I heard about bakuchiol. My mother was using bakuchiol oil (a different brand) and urged me to buy one. It is a plant-based substitute for retinol that reduces fine lines and pigmentation and helps your skin look firm and plump. The Lotus Organics Bakuchiol oil smells sweet and is gentle to my skin. I often replace it with my night cream for its anti-ageing benefits.

6. The Body Shop Tea Tree Oil

The powerful antibacterial properties of this miracle oil soothe skin, treat acne and unclog pores, all in one go! With powerful skin purifying properties, this purest and most potent concentration of Tea Tree Oil targets blemishes, removes impurities and mattifies your skin.

7. Kiehl's Daily Reviving Concentrate

This light, non-greasy combination of Sunflower, Ginger root and Tamanu Oils unclogs skin and leaves it moisturised. It also provides antioxidant protection from morning to night. All you need are 3-4 drops.

8. Juicy Chemistry Cold Pressed Rosehip Oil

Rosehip oil is a miracle worker for acne-prone skin. It’s replete with fatty acids and antioxidants that soothe irritation, fade acne scars, balance out oil production, and keep your skin happy overall.

9. St.Botanica Retinol 2.5% + Vitamin E & Hyaluronic Acid Professional Facial Serum

If you’re in your 30s or older, it's best to start using a retinol-infused formula like this one. A blend of 17 active ingredients, this gentle vegan formula minimises the appearance of wrinkles, improves uneven skin tone and restores firmness and radiance to the skin. It also repairs sun damage, pigmentation and uneven skin texture.

Conclusion

Finding the best-rated face oil is like finding your skincare soulmate, it takes a little research but is so worth it. Whether you’re balancing oily skin or chasing that dewy glow, the right oil can transform your routine and your complexion. Packed with nourishing goodness, it’s your secret to radiant, happy skin.

FAQs On Dry Skincare Routine

1. What is face oil, and why should I use it?

   Face oil is a skincare product made from natural or synthetic oils to hydrate, nourish, and protect the skin. It’s great for locking in moisture and adding a radiant glow!

2. Which facial oil is best for oily skin?

   Lightweight, non-comedogenic oils like jojoba, tea tree, or grapeseed are ideal for oily skin as they balance sebum without clogging pores.

3. Can face oil cause breakouts?

   Not if you choose the right one! Always opt for non-comedogenic options and patch tests to ensure compatibility with your skin.

4. What are the benefits of face oil?

   Face oils hydrate, nourish, and protect the skin barrier while delivering antioxidants and essential fatty acids for a healthy, glowing complexion.

5. How do I choose the best-rated face oil for my skin type?

   Identify your skin type, look for oils tailored to your concerns, and check reviews or expert recommendations for top-rated options.