Top Natural Oils for Your Skin Type

If your skin is looking a bit dull, try swapping your usual moisturizers for a plant-based oil. According to dermatologist Dr. Neal Schultz, “These oils mimic your skin’s sebum and help lubricate, protect, and hold in moisture.” Beyond their hydrating abilities, each of the standout oils in our list also targets specific skincare concerns. Read on to find your match.

Argan

This Moroccan all-star just might be the MVP of the oil world. It’s a lightweight hydrator that softens face, body, and even hair. Rich in natural vitamin E, argan also works to lighten acne scars and other forms of discoloration.

Best Bets: Kahina™ Giving Beauty Argan Oil, Olìe Biologique Huile Moderne

Coconut

Caribbean women swear by coconut oil to ward off sun-parched skin, and we love using it on chapped lips and dry hands. Look for cold-pressed virgin oils, which have higher levels of skin-beneficial nutrients than the heat-refined variety. Tip: ingesting coconut oil helps heal skin from the inside out—try using food-grade versions in salads and baked goods.              

Best Bets: VMV Hypoallergenics Grandma Minnie’s Oil’s Well Nurturing Do-It-Oil

Jojoba

Sourced from the seeds of a shrub native to the Sonoran Desert, this heavy-duty oil can be used year-round to prevent moisture loss and soothe red, irritated skin. It’s especially great for dry and mature complexions, since these two skin types tend to have underactive sebum glands.

Best Bets: TAY Safflower Seed Night Cream with Jojoba, Jouer Body Butter

Marula

This newcomer to the oil world is trending in a big way. High in essential fatty acids, it’s been used by Kenyan women for centuries to keep their skin protected against dehydration. Plus, it deflects free radicals and helps reverse the signs of sun damage.

Best Bets: Marula – The Leakey Collection™ Omega Rich Pure Marula Oil

Pomegranate

This super fruit’s oil has sky-high levels of antioxidants, which help to fade fine lines and wrinkles while brightening overall skin tone. Plus, it won’t clog your pores, so it’s ideal for blemish-prone types.

Best Bets: Pangea Organics Balancing Oil

—By Mai Wang