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The Best Face Oils Experts Love for Glowing Skin

Dryness is no match for these luxe hydrators.

Headshot of Harper's Bazaar StaffBy Harper's Bazaar Staff
best face oils 2023
Anna Efetova//Getty Images

Even the best face oils can have a bad rep when it comes to keeping your skin hydrated and supple. Contray to what some may believe, face oils typically don't clog your pores, cause breakouts, or feel overly greasy on skin. Instead, these routine favorites make it a breeze to help it seal in moisture while leaving your face extra dewy and bright. And if you're naturally oily, pressing a few drops of the essential into your skin won't cause your skin to overproduce it.

Shop the Best Face Oils

  • Squalane + Vitamin C Rose Oil

    Best Vitamin C Oil

    Biossance Squalane + Vitamin C Rose Oil

    $72 at Sephora
    Read more
  • C.E.O Glow Vitamin C + Turmeric Face Oil

    Best Brightening Face Oil

    Sunday Riley C.E.O Glow Vitamin C + Turmeric Face Oil

    Read more
  • Virgin Marula Luxury Face Oil

    Best for Sensitive Skin

    Drunk Elephant Virgin Marula Luxury Face Oil

    Read more
  • Crème Ancienne Face Oil Elixir

    Pro Pick

    Fresh Crème Ancienne Face Oil Elixir

    Read more
  • Algae + Moringa Universal Face Oil

    Best for Combination Skin

    Mara Algae + Moringa Universal Face Oil

    Read more

Plus, the best face oils are also extremely versatile: In cooler months, they layer perfectly under a heavier cream, and in seasons like spring and summer, an oil is a great option for lightweight hydration. Ahead, find our favorite oil picks for all skin types, along with expert advice from celebrity facialist, Candace Marino.

Related: The 25 Best Face Serums of All-Time


Best Vitamin C Oil

Biossance Squalane + Vitamin C Rose Oil

Squalane + Vitamin C Rose Oil
Best Vitamin C Oil

Biossance Squalane + Vitamin C Rose Oil

$72 at Sephora
Credit: Sephora
Pros
  • Lightweight
  • Brightening
Cons

    A blend of sugarcane-derived squalane and oil-soluble vitamin C make this oil a one-two punch of brightening, moisturizing goodness for nearly all skin types.

    One satisfied customer writes:

    "I use this lightweight oil in the daytime. It leaves my skin feeling hydrated and looking radiant. Perfect combination for healthy looking skin!" —jen101

    Size1.01 oz/ 30 mL
    Skin TypeNormal, Dry, Combination, and Oily
    IngredientsAdvanced Vitamin C (THD Ascorbate), Sugarcane-Derived Squalane, Chios Crystal Oil
    Best Brightening Face Oil

    Sunday Riley C.E.O Glow Vitamin C + Turmeric Face Oil

    C.E.O Glow Vitamin C + Turmeric Face Oil
    Best Brightening Face Oil

    Sunday Riley C.E.O Glow Vitamin C + Turmeric Face Oil

    Credit: Sephora
    Pros
    • Moisturizes and brightens
    Cons

      Why use both an oil and a vitamin C serum when you can combine the two? That's the genius of Sunday Riley's C.E.O Glow, which also includes turmeric to help brighten and soothe.

      One satisfied customer writes:

      "I have been using this product for a month as I had some dark spots and have truly been impressed! The product has been amazing. I was nervous about it being an oil, but it's not heavy at all, absorbs nicely and leaves my skin so smooth. In the month of usage, my spots have faded tremendously, my skin is more radiant and have happily ordered my second bottled to continue use." —sweetki91

      Size0.5 oz/ 15 mL
      Skin TypeNormal, Dry, and Combination
      IngredientsTHD Ascorbate (Vitamin C), Turmeric, Ginger Root Extract and Bisabolol
      Best for Sensitive Skin

      Drunk Elephant Virgin Marula Luxury Face Oil

      Virgin Marula Luxury Face Oil
      Best for Sensitive Skin

      Drunk Elephant Virgin Marula Luxury Face Oil

      Credit: Sephora

      Marula seed oil is packed with antioxidants like vitamin E, omega-6, and nine fatty acids—so this is like a daily multivitamin for your face. Great for sensitive skin, we love to wear this oil alone or add a few drops into our moisturizer.

      One satisfied customer writes:

      "I love this face oil. Lightly scented, gentle on the skin. Gives you a natural glow!" —Pamani

      Size0.5 oz/ 15 mL
      Skin TypeNormal, Dry, Combination, and Oily
      IngredientsMarula seed oil
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      Pro Pick

      Fresh Crème Ancienne Face Oil Elixir

      Crème Ancienne Face Oil Elixir
      Pro Pick

      Fresh Crème Ancienne Face Oil Elixir

      Credit: Fresh
      Pros
      • Handmade
      • Nutrient-rich
      Cons

        This luxe oil from Fresh—which is handmade in a literal monastery—is a favorite of Marino's, "for its ability to quickly penetrate and deeply nourish the skin without feeling greasy or heavy," she notes. "It's packed with antioxidants and omega rich fatty acids to both protect and repair the skin."

        One satisfied customer writes:

        "This is one of my favorite products I’ve ever used. I use alongside the rest of the line and have seen such an incredible difference in my skin. Really amazing product." —Aer4

        Size1 fl. oz.
        Skin TypeDry skin, mature skin
        IngredientsMeadowfoam seed oil, black currant seed oil, commiphora extract, seabuckthorn oil
        Best for Combination Skin

        Mara Algae + Moringa Universal Face Oil

        Algae + Moringa Universal Face Oil
        Best for Combination Skin

        Mara Algae + Moringa Universal Face Oil

        Credit: Credo
        Pros
        • Works for most skin types
        • Nutrient-rich
        Cons

          Get an instant glow with this best-seller, packed with vitamin-rich moringa and baobab oils, as well as the brand's proprietary algae for antioxidant benefits.

          One satisfied customer writes:

          "I’m chronically congested but since using this oil, my pores have opened up, the texture of my face is completely changed, and I’m hydrated all day. I love it!" —Jaclyn

          Size1.18 fl. oz.
          Skin Typedry, mature, sensitive, blemish-prone, combination and normal
          Ingredientsalgae, moringa, baobab, and kalahari melon
          Best Overnight Oil

          Kiehl's Since 1851 Midnight Recovery Concentrate

          Midnight Recovery Concentrate
          Best Overnight Oil

          Kiehl's Since 1851 Midnight Recovery Concentrate

          Credit: Kiehl's Since 1851
          Pros
          • Calming scent
          Cons

            This fan-favorite oil uses squalane, evening primrose, and lavender to not only lull you to sleep—but to restore your skin overnight. The next morning your skin looks totally refreshed.

            One satisfied customer writes:

            "I can’t live without this Kiehl’s face oil! I apply every night and my skin is beautiful the next morning. It reduces redness a lot and is moisturizing." —gabiec377

            Size1 fl. oz.
            Skin TypeNormal, Dry, Combination, and Oily
            IngredientsLavender Essential Oil, Squalane, Evening Primrose Oil
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            Best Multitasking Face Oil

            Farmacy Beauty Honey Grail Ultra-Hydrating Face Oil

            Honey Grail Ultra-Hydrating Face Oil
            Best Multitasking Face Oil

            Farmacy Beauty Honey Grail Ultra-Hydrating Face Oil

            Credit: Farmacy

            The blend of honey, sea buckthorn, and five flower oils help restore lost moisture and soften fine lines and wrinkles. Plus, we love that you can also run it through your hair.

            One satisfied customer writes:

            "I was gifted a bottle of this well over a year ago. I knew after a month I wouldn't be able to live without it! This one bottle lasted me over a year, so it's definitely an investment for soft, plump, radiant skin!" —Ashlee T.

            Size1 fl. oz.
            Skin TypeAll skin types, including oily skin
            IngredientsBuckwheat Honey, Sea Buckthorn Oil, 5-Flower Oil Blend
            Best for All Skin Types

            Peach & Lily Pure Beam Luxe Oil

            Pure Beam Luxe Oil
            Best for All Skin Types

            Peach & Lily Pure Beam Luxe Oil

            Credit: Ulta
            Pros
            • Non-comedogenic
            Cons

              With squalane, sea buckthorn oil, jojoba seed oil, and more skin-loving ingredients, this face oil is a universal winner that won't clog pores.

              One satisfied customer writes:

              "This is a light oil and it works really well on my combination/oily skin. At first I was really afraid to add oil to my T-zone but it turns out it only moisturizes and not cause more oil production (who knew). So far my skin is even more hydrated and even looking. I wish I had started using this sooner, the results have been amazing! Normally I get dry spots on my skin been since starting the k-beauty routine and adding this oil, dry flakes are non-existent!" —Holly

              Size1 fl. oz.
              IngredientsSqualane, sea buckthorn oil, jojoba seed oil
              Skin TypeCombination, dry, and oily skin
              Cult Favorite

              Vintner's Daughter Active Botanical Serum

              Active Botanical Serum
              Cult Favorite

              Vintner's Daughter Active Botanical Serum

              Credit: Bluemercury
              Pros
              • Anti-aging
              Cons

                Don’t be confused by the name; Vintner’s Daughter Active Botanical Serum is the only face oil you’ll ever need. Boasting 22 nutrient-rich botanicals and cold-pressed botanical and essential oils, it’s the ultimate restorative blend. Use it last in your skin care routine to seal in moisture and ensure a serious glow.

                One satisfied customer writes:

                "This serum combined with the essence is life-changing. My skin is on the dryer, sensitive side and this is so soothing, my skin drinks it up. This is a new staple in my skincare routine!" —cwil217

                Size30ml/ 1.0fl.oz
                Skin TypeSuitable for all skin and daily AM and PM use
                Ingredients60+ skin-beautifying vitamins, minerals, phytonutrients, antioxidants, phytoceramides, aminos, and omega fatty acids
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                Best Affordable Face Oil

                The Ordinary 100% Organic Cold Pressed Rose Hip Seed Oil

                100% Organic Cold Pressed Rose Hip Seed Oil
                Best Affordable Face Oil

                The Ordinary 100% Organic Cold Pressed Rose Hip Seed Oil

                Credit: Ulta
                Pros
                • Only contains one ingredient
                • Great for layering
                Cons

                  Fans of The Ordinary's 100% Organic Cold Pressed Rose Hip Seed Oil say it helps keep skin healthy without causing any irritation or breakouts.

                  One satisfied customer writes:

                  "I've been using this in my night time routine and it has made me wake up with the most hydrated and glowy skin! Love this product. I have sensitive skin and it does wonders." —Liz

                  Size1.0 oz
                  Skin TypeDry, Mature
                  IngredientsRosa Canina Seed Oil
                  Best for Mature Skin

                  Sisley Paris Black Rose Precious Face Oil

                  Black Rose Precious Face Oil
                  Best for Mature Skin

                  Sisley Paris Black Rose Precious Face Oil

                  Credit: Sisley Paris
                  Pros
                  • Anti Aging
                  • Luxe ingredients
                  Cons

                    Bulgarian rose, camelina, plum, and avocado oils give skin an instant glow. Press a few drops into your skin after applying a serum or moisturizer.

                    One satisfied customer writes:

                    "I use this product day and night under my moisturizers, it absorbs beautifully and smells divine. It has improved the texture of my skin, I absolutely love it." —Loretta P.

                    Size25 mL
                    Skin TypeDry or Mature Skin
                    IngredientsPlum Oil & Camelina Oil
                    Luxe Formula

                    Augustinus Bader The Face Oil

                    The Face Oil
                    Luxe Formula

                    Augustinus Bader The Face Oil

                    Credit: Augustinus Bader
                    Pros
                    • Anti-aging
                    • Nutrient-rich
                    Cons

                      Over 30 years in the making, this face oil from Augustinus Bader absorbs quickly, so you can apply SPF and makeup within minutes. The blend of luxurious natural oils are packed with amino acids and potent vitamins to keep skin looking healthy and radiant.

                      One satisfied customer writes:

                      "I don’t normally believe the skin care hype, but this product lives up to all the accolades." —Ann M.

                      Size1 fl. oz.
                      Skin TypeSuitable for all skin types
                      Ingredients TFC8, Babassu Oil, Argan Oil, Hazelnut Oil
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                      Best for Dry Skin

                      Kora Organics Noni Glow Face Oil

                      Noni Glow Face Oil
                      Best for Dry Skin

                      Kora Organics Noni Glow Face Oil

                      Credit: Kora Organics
                      Pros
                      • Nutrient-rich
                      • Plumping
                      Cons

                        This popular face oil pick gets points for feeling lightweight while bringing dry, flaky skin back to life. That's thanks to the organic noni extract, rosehip oil, pomegranate oil, and sea buckthorn oil.

                        One satisfied customer writes:

                        "The most luxurious face oil I've ever used. I usually keep it simple and use sweet almond oil but once I tried this I was obsessed. Just a few drops and my skin looks and feels so good." —Carolyn S.

                        Size0.34 oz/ 10 mL
                        Skin TypeDry, Combination, and Oily
                        IngredientsNoni Fruit, Rosehip Oil, Sea Buckthorn
                        Best Antioxidant Face Oil

                        Youth To The People Superberry Hydrate + Glow Dream Oil

                        Superberry Hydrate + Glow Dream Oil
                        Best Antioxidant Face Oil

                        Youth To The People Superberry Hydrate + Glow Dream Oil

                        Credit: Youth to the People
                        Pros
                        • Anti-aging
                        Cons

                          This face oil is all about the antioxidants. Maqui (the most antioxidant-rich fruit in the world), acai, prickly pear, and goji berry help support skin-healing.

                          One satisfied customer writes:

                          "I add a few drops of this into my moisturizer. A little bit goes a long way. And has never caused me any breakouts. I absolutely love this stuff." —keli

                          Size1 oz/ 30 mL
                          Skin TypeNormal, Dry, Combination, and Oily
                          IngredientsMaqui, Prickly Pear, Açai

                          What kinds of oils are best for the face?

                          faq line break
                          .

                          According to Marino, a few low-comedogenic ingredients to look for include jojoba oil, marula oil, squalane, rosehip seed oil, sea buckthorn oil, black currant seed oil, and olive oil.

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                          Which oils are best for anti-aging?

                          best face oils 2023

                          "Antioxidant-rich oils are going to be the best for anti-aging because they fight off the free radical damage that breaks down the skin, causing wrinkles, pigmentation and other aging concerns," Marino notes.

                          Will using a face oil cause clogged pores?

                          best face oils 2023

                          Using one of the best facial oils—primarily those that are non-comedogenic—should not clog pores, but Marino advises regular skin exfoliation prior to application.

                          "It’s important to remember that exfoliation plays a key role in the skin's overall health and appearance," she says. If the skin is not properly exfoliated, congestion is likely to build up within the pore when you add hydrating or moisturizing ingredients like oils. The dead cells and the oil will stick together forming a glue-like substance, creating a layer which will actually prevent moisture retention, and may lead to breakouts."

                          Meet the Experts

                          best face oils 2023
                          • Candace Marino is a celebrity facialist based in Beverly Hills, California.
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                          Why trust Harper's BAZAAR?

                          best face oils 2023

                          For more than 150 years, Harper’s BAZAAR has been the preeminent fashion and beauty resource for women at every age. We cover what’s new and what’s next in beauty by working with the world’s leading authorities in dermatology, plastic surgery, cosmetics, skincare, haircare, and fragrance. Every story we publish has been thoroughly researched and vetted by our team of beauty editors and industry experts.

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