Best Oils for Dry Skin
Jul 03, 2023 By Madison Evans

Do you suffer from dry, irritated skin? If so, you're not alone. Millions of people worldwide experience uncomfortable and often painful dryness thanks to changes in weather, lifestyle, and dietary choices.

The good news is there are a few simple ways to help alleviate this nagging problem— without breaking your budget! One way to keep your skin hydrated is with oil, which has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for anything from acne to stretch marks.

In this blog post, we'll explore some of the best oils for dry skin care that can help bring softness and relief once again.

Marula Oil

Marula oil is highly beneficial for dry skin, offering nourishing properties in a lightweight formulation. Derived from the fruits of the marula tree, this oil is rich in essential fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins E and C.

It deeply moisturizes and hydrates the skin, reducing dryness and restoring its natural glow. Marula oil also helps improve skin elasticity and minimizes the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Its non-greasy texture absorbs quickly, leaving the skin feeling soft, supple, and rejuvenated.

Sunflower Oil

Sunflower oil is a nourishing and versatile oil that offers exceptional benefits for dry skin. Rich in essential fatty acids, particularly linoleic acid, it helps to restore and maintain the skin's natural barrier function, preventing moisture loss.

Sunflower oil is also packed with vitamins A, D, and E, which provide antioxidant protection and promote healthy cell regeneration. Its lightweight texture allows for quick absorption without leaving a greasy residue.

This oil soothes dry, flaky skin, providing deep hydration and leaving it soft, supple, and revitalized. With its numerous benefits, sunflower oil is a top choice for those seeking effective relief for dry skin.

Olive Oil

Olive oil is a highly beneficial option for dry skin. Its rich composition of essential fatty acids and antioxidants helps nourish and hydrate the skin, restoring its natural moisture balance. Olive oil's emollient properties create a protective barrier on the skin, preventing moisture loss and leaving it smooth and supple.

Additionally, it possesses anti-inflammatory properties that can alleviate dryness and soothe irritated skin. Regular use of olive oil can promote healthier-looking skin and provide relief from dryness and discomfort.

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is a popular choice for dry skin due to its exceptional moisturizing properties. Packed with fatty acids, it creates a protective barrier, preventing moisture loss and keeping the skin hydrated. The oil's nourishing nature helps alleviate dryness, flakiness, and itching.

Additionally, coconut oil possesses antimicrobial properties, promoting a healthy skin environment. Its versatility allows use on the face, body, and even hair, making it an excellent all-around solution for combating dry skin and achieving a smooth, supple complexion.

Argan Oil

Because of its outstanding moisturising qualities, argan oil is a nourishing elixir that is a superb solution for dry skin. This golden oil, which is extracted from the argan tree's kernels, is high in vital fatty acids, vitamin E, and antioxidants.

It deeply hydrates and restores the skin's natural barrier, promoting a smooth and supple complexion. With its non-greasy texture, argan oil absorbs quickly, leaving the skin rejuvenated and protected. Its regenerative qualities also help soothe irritation and reduce the appearance of fine lines, making it a beloved choice for dry skin care.

Soybean Oil

Soybean oil is a highly beneficial for dry skin due to its rich composition of essential fatty acids and vitamin E. With its nourishing properties, soybean oil helps to moisturize and soften the skin, making it an excellent choice for combating dryness.

It also contains antioxidants that protect the skin from environmental damage and promote a youthful appearance. Additionally, soybean oil's lightweight and non-greasy texture allows easy absorption, leaving the skin feeling hydrated and revitalized.

Avocado Oil

Avocado oil is an excellent choice for dry skin due to its nourishing and hydrating properties. Packed with vitamins A, D, and E and essential fatty acids, it helps replenish moisture and promote skin elasticity.

The oil's rich texture creates a protective barrier, preventing moisture loss and soothing dryness. Additionally, avocado oil contains antioxidants that combat free radicals and promote a healthy complexion.

Its gentle nature makes it suitable for sensitive skin, making avocado oil a top-notch option for combating dryness and achieving a radiant, supple skin texture.

Borage Oil

Borage oil is an excellent choice for dry skin due to its rich gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) composition. GLA is an omega-6 fatty acid that helps improve skin hydration and reduce inflammation.

Borage oil possesses potent moisturizing properties, promoting a healthy and supple complexion. Its high antioxidant content also aids in protecting the skin from environmental damage. When applied topically, borage oil can soothe dryness, itchiness, and redness, making it an ideal natural remedy for individuals with dry skin concerns.

Oat Oil

Oat oil is a highly beneficial for dry skin due to its rich moisturizing properties. This oil contains vitamins, antioxidants, and essential fatty acids that nourish and hydrate the skin.

It helps to replenish the skin's natural moisture barrier, soothe irritation, and reduce inflammation. Oat oil also has a lightweight texture, making it easily absorbed by the skin without leaving a greasy residue. Its emollient nature makes it an excellent choice for combating dryness and promoting a soft, supple complexion.

How to Choose An Oil

Here are some factors to consider when selecting an oil for dry skin:

  • Non-comedogenic oils: Look for non-comedogenic oils, meaning they won't clog your pores. This is important to prevent breakouts and maintain clear skin.
  • Moisturizing properties: Highly moisturizing oils replenish the skin's natural moisture barrier. These oils should be able to penetrate the skin and provide long-lasting hydration.
  • Rich in essential fatty acids: Essential fatty acids like omega-3 and omega-6 are beneficial for dry skin. They help strengthen the skin's barrier function and retain moisture. Look for oils rich in these fatty acids, such as rosehip seed or evening primrose.
  • Antioxidant content: Dry skin is often more prone to damage from free radicals. Oils rich in antioxidants, such as vitamin E or argan oil, can help protect the skin from oxidative stress and improve health.
  • Soothing and anti-inflammatory properties: Dry skin can often be sensitive and prone to irritation. Choosing oils with soothing and anti-inflammatory properties can help calm and nourish the skin. Examples include jojoba oil or chamomile oil.
  • Personal preference: Finally, consider your preference regarding oil texture, scent, and how it feels on your skin. This will ensure that you enjoy using the oil and are more likely to consistently incorporate it into your skincare routine.

How to Use Oils

  • Apply the oil immediately after washing your face or showering while your skin is still moist. This helps to lock in moisture and enhance absorption.
  • Only a thin layer of oil is needed to cover your face or body. Applying too much can leave your skin feeling greasy.
  • Gently massage the oil into your skin using upward circular motions. Focus on areas that need extra hydration or have specific concerns.
  • Give the oil time to soak into your skin before getting dressed. This helps prevent clothes staining and allows the oil to work effectively.
  • You can create your custom oil blend by mixing different oils. This allows you to combine their benefits and tailor the blend to your skincare needs. However, stop using the mixture if you experience any irritation or discomfort.

FAQs

Which oil is good for dry skin at night?

Argan oil is a great choice for dry skin at night. Its deeply nourishing properties help to restore the skin's natural barrier and promote hydration while you sleep.

Which oil is best for sensitive, dry skin?

Avocado oil is an excellent choice for sensitive, dry skin. It contains potent moisturizing and anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe irritation and reduce redness.

Can oils be used on the face?

Yes, oils can be used on the face. However, non-comedogenic oils are important, meaning they won't clog your pores.

Conclusion

Dry skin can cause discomfort, embarrassment, and physical distress. Fortunately, there are safe, natural remedies for this condition. Natural oils such as marula, sunflower olive, coconut, argan, soybean, avocado, borage, and oat are all beneficial for relieving dry skin. When looking for the right oil for your specific needs, you must consider where the oil is sourced from and its properties in terms of ingredients and usage.