Facial oils are a great addition to your skincare routine. Aside from sunscreens, facial oils add an extra layer of protection to the skin to prevent dullness and dryness. They also help moisturize, nourish, and hydrate your skin to give you a more radiant glow. They also maintain a healthy balance for the skin to reduce wrinkles, fine lines, dark spots, and breakouts.
Plus, they have antibacterial and healing properties that are beneficial for your skin. Since there are plenty of choices available, you must choose the right facial oil that suits your skin type. With the help of our buying guide, check out the factors that you need to consider before purchasing one—with comments and tips from board-certified dermatologist Dr. Katrina Erika Habaluyas Luz!
Quick List - Top Facial Oils
Good Molecules
Made to Moisturize Dry Skin and Reduce the Appearance of Wrinkles
Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz is the face behind Ask Your Derma. She is a board-certified dermatologist in Metro Manila. She is also an educator and digital creator on all things skin, hair, and nails. She is a Diplomate of the Philippine Dermatological Society and offers online video consultations. You can also catch her on her Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube channel.
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
Table of Contents
Maybe you’re wondering if there is any difference between facial oils and serums because they look quite similar, especially in terms of texture. But these two really have a huge difference when it comes to taking care of the delicate skin on your face.
Serums are made to specifically target skin concerns like wrinkles, fine lines, dryness, acne, redness, and more. Hence, they can deeply penetrate the layers of the skin to supply them with powerful ingredients and give the best results.
Plus, face serums are lightweight and more concentrated compared to facial oils and are typically water-based and oil-based. Aside from treating your skin problems, there also some serums that contain hyaluronic acid, which moisturizes and hydrates your skin, ideal for those who have dry and mature skin.
In truth, there are no standardized definitions as to what constitutes a serum. In fact, it's more marketing than anything else. In general, serums are "defined" as products that target specific skin concerns since they typically contain a higher concentration of active ingredients.
On the other hand, facial oils serve as a supplement to your face which are designed to nourish, hydrate, and moisturize your skin and help you achieve a healthy, glowing look. They are made with essential oils extracted from plants which supply your skin with the necessary nutrients.
They also provide extra protection for your skin from the changing weather and strengthen your skin barriers. This skin care product also contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that give a baby-like softness and smoothness to your skin.
Plant oils have been found to possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and even anti-microbial properties at a relatively affordable price, making them a good add-on.
These oils have been found to provide therapeutic benefits. Still, it is important to remember that different kinds of oils possess unique characteristics, which are important when considering what to use topically. The method by which the plant oils are extracted significantly affects the efficacy (aka preservation of beneficial lipids) and their irritancy potential.
Choosing the right facial oil for you may be daunting. However, we have made it easier for you by listing down considerations below for you to make an informed choice.
It is a must to know your skin type because the facial oil you’re going to purchase must be suitable for your skin to avoid allergic reactions. There are different oils available like sweet almond oil, Crambe abyssinica, tea tree oil, sunflower oil, avocado oil, sesame oil, camellia oil, safflower oil, papaya oil, and many more! These oils will be discussed in the sections below.
Jojoba oil is considered a skin-friendly oil that is safe to use for most people. It contains anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe and calm your skin, thereby giving you a comfortable feeling when used.
There is no doubt that this is truly an amazing oil that is rich in antioxidants and antibacterial properties. It is also non-comedogenic, controls sebum production, and is full of skin-essential nutrients, which make it suitable for all skin types.
Did you know that jojoba oil is actually a very common ingredient incorporated into moisturizers and sunscreens? It acts as an emollient, not to mention enhances the absorption of other ingredients within a formulation into the skin. Thus, it is no wonder that jojoba oil as a facial oil has its benefits.
Multiple studies have shown that it possesses anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, skin barrier repair, and wound healing properties. The interesting thing about it is it's very similar to sebum (aka the natural oils in your skin and hair), thus, making it a great option to add to your skincare routine.
If you’re struggling with having dry skin because of the changes happening in the weather, you can go with these three powerful oils. Coconut oil contains a high amount of saturated fats that can soothe dry skin. When applied, it leaves a soothing yet non-greasy feeling on your skin.
Argan oil has been called a miracle oil for the skin since it is rich in oleic and linoleic acids as well as vitamin E. These essential nutrients help moisturize dry and dehydrated skin so that you can get smooth, supple, soft, and radiant skin. It is also rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties to prevent fine lines, wrinkles, flaking, and itching.
Another facial oil that is perfect for dry skin is marula oil which is rich with omega fatty acids that provide essential nourishment for the skin. It is great for reducing redness and soothing irritated skin while giving you a healthy glow. This oil feels light on the skin and does not feel greasy, making it great for everyday use.
For dry skin, facial oils can be a good add-on. Yes, add-on! Definitely don't skip the moisturizer, though, as facial oils are not a substitute for them. Some options for dry skin include coconut oil which studies have shown is great for skin barrier repair, not to mention possesses anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-bacterial, and even wound healing properties.
Argan oil contains a high level of both oleic acid and linoleic acid, making it a great source of polyunsaturated fatty acids. It also possesses antioxidant properties since it is rich in polyphenols and tocopherols.
To avoid having clogged pores, it's best to choose non-comedogenic oils such as grapeseed, peppermint, and squalane. Since oily skin has visible and open pores that overproduce sebum, powerful, non-comedogenic oils such as grapeseed, peppermint, and squalane help control oil production on your face as well as your body.
Grapeseed oil contains a high amount of vitamin E and phenolic antioxidants, which are known as resveratrol. This powerful antioxidant helps reduce fine lines and hyperpigmentation on your face. It also tightens your pores that leave your skin mattified for a more radiant glow.
On the other hand, peppermint oil helps regulate your skin’s production of oil and also helps avoid clogging your pores. This oil can also give you a soothing and cooling effect so that you can feel fresh every time you use it. Lastly, squalane oil is a natural emollient that helps moisturize the skin without clogging your pores.
Squalane is a stable hydrogenated version of squalene (a moisturizing factor naturally found in our skin). The great thing about squalane is that it is moisturizing yet doesn't oxidize or clog pores. It's generally good for all skin types, particularly for dry, aging, or acne-prone skin.
Tea tree oil has anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce acne breakouts. Not only does it fight off acne-causing bacteria, but it also reduces breakouts and lessens the risk of scarring. Plus, it minimizes the appearance of dark spots and acne marks for a blemish-free and brighter face.
Aside from tea tree oil, you can also go for rosehip, which is a volatile oil that contains vitamins, antioxidants, and omega-3, and 6 essential fatty acids that can treat acne-prone skin. It is also rich in vitamin C and lycopene that rejuvenates and regenerates your skin and boosts collagen production for skin repair, helping you achieve glowing and radiant skin.
The idea of applying oil on acne-prone skin may seem bizarre for some, but did you know that people with acne-prone skin generally have a lower percentage of linoleic acid (an essential fatty acid) in their sebum and a higher percentage of oleic acid (vs. normal skin types)? This lower percentage of linoleic acid increases pro-inflammatory components in the skin, leading to increased sebum and clogged pores.
Thus, in theory, adding an oil rich in linoleic acid may correct this imbalance. Good options include rosehip, safflower, grape seed, primrose, hemp, and soybean oil. Another good consideration includes tea tree oil—best for inflamed skin, given its anti-inflammatory effects. Studies have even shown it possesses anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties making it a good option for acne-prone skin. However, more studies are still needed on this one (as opposed to good ol' benzoyl peroxide) for acne.
When you have sensitive skin, you should always look for skincare products that are specially made for you to avoid allergic reactions, itching, and redness. Castor oil is one of the best options you can choose for your sensitive skin. It has a low comedogenic count that helps reduce swelling and puffiness in your face.
This oil doesn’t also clog your pores which lessens the risk of having blackheads. It also contains triglycerides that keep your skin moisturized and hydrated. Aside from castor oil, you can also choose moringa oil for your sensitive skin. It contains a high amount of omega fatty acids and antioxidants, which makes it rich in moisturizing properties.
Moringa oil has been found to have beneficial effects on the skin. A study by Sirivan Athikomkulchai et al. showed that moringa oil indeed possessed antioxidant activity, enhanced the skin hydration level, and even reduced skin erythema. Definitely, more studies are still needed but it seems to be a promising ingredient.
Some of the best antioxidants you can find are vitamin E or tocopherol or tocopheryl acetate, and vitamin A or retinyl palmitate that helps treat sun damage and aging. Also, mineral-rich oils which contain zinc and selenium provide a faster healing process to damaged skin and extra protection from the harmful UV rays.
However, there are also some ingredients that you should avoid when choosing facial oil. Steer clear from facial oils, which contain preservatives since they can cause allergic reactions and damage your skin. One of the ingredients that you should avoid is phthalates, a commonly used fragrance ingredient since they can disrupt the endocrine system.
Disclaimer: These products are recommendations made by our team at mybest Philippines. Our expert, Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz, is not affiliated with, nor is she endorsing any of the brands we mention below.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | |||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Size | Skin Type | Complementary Ingredients | |||||
1 | The Ordinary 100% Organic Cold-Pressed Rose Hip Seed Oil | ![]() | An Organic Hydrating Face Oil | 30 mL | All Skin Types | Rose Hip Seed Oil | |
2 | Human Nature Sunflower Beauty Oil | ![]() | 25 Skin and Body Miracles in One Bottle | 50 mL, 100 mL | All Skin Types | Sunflower Seed Oil | |
3 | Lana 100% Pure Argan Oil | ![]() | Pure Argan Oil to Restore Your Healthy Skin | 20 mL | Aging, Dry, Dull, Normal Skin Types | Argan Oil | |
4 | Good Molecules Bakuchiol Oil Blend for Dry Skin | ![]() | Made to Moisturize Dry Skin and Reduce the Appearance of Wrinkles | 12 mL | Dry, Dehydrated Skin Types | Rose Hip Seed Oil, Chia Seed Oil, Bakuchiol | |
5 | Drunk Elephant Virgin Marula Luxury Facial Oil | ![]() | Reduce the Appearance of Wrinkles and Get Youthful Skin | 15 mL, 30 mL | All Skin Types | Virgin Marula Oil | |
6 | Huxley Oil Light and More | ![]() | Formulated With Prickly Seed Oil for Deep Skin Hydration | 30 mL | Dry to Normal Skin Types | Prickly Pear Oil, Jojoba Oil, Squalane | |
7 | V&M Naturals CPC+G Oil | ![]() | A Powerful Brightening Facial Oil | 30 mL | Dull, Dry, Rough Skin | Tsubaki Oil, Love Plant Oil, Candeia Oil, Safflower Oil, Papaya Extract, Grapefruit Extract | |
8 | Peter Thomas Roth Oilless Oil 100% Purified Squalane | ![]() | Contains 100% Squalane to Enhance Skin Elasticity | 30 mL | Combination, Dry, Normal, Oily, Sensitive Skin Types | Squalene | |
9 | Nuxe Huile Prodigieuse® | ![]() | A Luxurious Oil That Provides Long-Lasting Nourishment | 50 mL, 100 mL | All Skin Types | Macadamia integrifolia Seed Oil, Prunus Amygdalus dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil, Corylus avellana (Hazel) Seed Oil, Camellia oleifera Seed Oil, Camellia japonica Seed Oil, Argania spinosa Kernel Oil, Borago officinalis Seed Oil, Helianthus annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Rosmarinus officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Solanum lycopersicum (Tomato) Fruit Extract | |
10 | Anastasia Beverly Hills Hydrating Oil | ![]() | Lightweight Oil That Will Give You a Radiant Complexion | 30 mL | Combination, Dry, Normal, Oily, Sensitive Skin Types | Jojoba, Boraje Seed, Black Currant, Rose Hip |
This facial oil from The Ordinary is made with 100% cold-pressed rose hip oil, which means that the oil was processed without any heat or other chemicals. It’s an extraordinary oil that helps to hydrate, nourish, moisturize, and soften your skin.
Moreover, it has a non-comedogenic and cruelty-free formula rich in linoleic acid and pro-vitamin A, which can address skin issues like acne breakouts or the signs of aging. Reviewers say this face oil has made their skin smoother, softer, and more hydrated!
Size | 30 mL |
---|---|
Skin Type | All Skin Types |
Complementary Ingredients | Rose Hip Seed Oil |
This sunflower seed oil from Human Nature is one of the most popular and in-demand facial oils on the market. It is a crowd favorite because it offers a lot of skin benefits from head to toe. The brand claims you can experience 25 miracles by just consistently using this oil!
It is made with 100% pure and natural sunflower seed oil that helps nourish and moisturize your skin. This oil can also lighten dark spots and under-eye circles, diminish fine lines, and relax your tired and puffy eyes after a very stressful day. Users have even reported that it has additional benefits for the body, such as lightening scars and preventing stretch marks!
Size | 50 mL, 100 mL |
---|---|
Skin Type | All Skin Types |
Complementary Ingredients | Sunflower Seed Oil |
This facial oil from Lana is made with 100% pure argan oil suitable for all skin types. It helps fight free radicals, wrinkles, dark spots, fine lines, and other signs of aging. It is also a good source of vitamin E, an ingredient known to help restore the skin's elasticity and firmness. And for those struggling with dark marks, this can help lighten acne scars!
Since it is weightless and non-greasy, it can easily be absorbed by the skin. Users also love that just a small amount is enough for your entire face. However, do note that although it is suitable for all skin types, it is still recommended that you do a patch test on your elbows or under your jaw to know if it won't cause any irritation.
Size | 20 mL |
---|---|
Skin Type | Aging, Dry, Dull, Normal Skin Types |
Complementary Ingredients | Argan Oil |
Size | 12 mL |
---|---|
Skin Type | Dry, Dehydrated Skin Types |
Complementary Ingredients | Rose Hip Seed Oil, Chia Seed Oil, Bakuchiol |
Size | 15 mL, 30 mL |
---|---|
Skin Type | All Skin Types |
Complementary Ingredients | Virgin Marula Oil |
This facial oil is formulated to be absorbed easily into the skin to deeply nourish all its layers. Its main ingredient is the Sahara prickly seed oil to maintain the skin's natural barrier. It also contains squalane and jojoba oil, which further moisturizes the skin and protects it from pollution. What's also good about this oil is that it can be used for dry lips and hair ends, too.
Although this product is suitable for all skin types, it's best for dry to normal skin types, including those with dehydration and dullness. Reviews highlight its lightweight texture that absorbs effortlessly, leaving a velvety finish without excessive oiliness.
Size | 30 mL |
---|---|
Skin Type | Dry to Normal Skin Types |
Complementary Ingredients | Prickly Pear Oil, Jojoba Oil, Squalane |
This facial oil from V&M Naturals is an amazing oil that contains the best ingredients for brightening your face. It is made with calamansi, papaya, Japanese Camellia, and grapefruit extracts that eliminate dark spots, blemishes, and dullness on your skinーwhich plenty of reviewers have attested to.
It is also rich in vitamins A, C, E, and potassium, that can effectively lock in moisture to keep the skin supple. The Japanese Camellia extract sustains your skin's overall elasticity and radiance; meanwhile, the grapefruit extract helps strengthen its protective barriers.
Size | 30 mL |
---|---|
Skin Type | Dull, Dry, Rough Skin |
Complementary Ingredients | Tsubaki Oil, Love Plant Oil, Candeia Oil, Safflower Oil, Papaya Extract, Grapefruit Extract |
Size | 30 mL |
---|---|
Skin Type | Combination, Dry, Normal, Oily, Sensitive Skin Types |
Complementary Ingredients | Squalene |
Huile Prodigieuse® is a multipurpose dry oil that you can use on the face, body, and hair. Made with a mixture of 98% all-natural botanical oils like sweet almond, macadamia, and tsubaki, this versatile oil provides long-lasting hydration. It also offers antioxidant properties that protect against pollution and other harsh environmental factors.
Plus, it feels and smells luxurious, thanks to the delightful combination of orange blossom, magnolia, and vanilla scents. Many users appreciate that this product is fast-absorbing and an all-around choice for face, body, and hair. Its formula is also free from preservatives, mineral oil, and silicon, which is one reason why this oil has remained iconic for years!
Size | 50 mL, 100 mL |
---|---|
Skin Type | All Skin Types |
Complementary Ingredients | Macadamia integrifolia Seed Oil, Prunus Amygdalus dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil, Corylus avellana (Hazel) Seed Oil, Camellia oleifera Seed Oil, Camellia japonica Seed Oil, Argania spinosa Kernel Oil, Borago officinalis Seed Oil, Helianthus annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Rosmarinus officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Solanum lycopersicum (Tomato) Fruit Extract |
This face oil has a blend of botanical extracts and oils, including jojoba oil and rose hip oil, to provide hydration and give you a natural glow from within. It's packed full of antioxidants, too, which help protect your skin against damage and keep it firm and tight. Because of its intense moisturizing power, this product is recommended for those with dry skin.
Even if it's moisturizing, this face oil is lightweight, so you don't have to worry about any heavy or greasy feeling. It absorbs quickly into the skin, so it's perfect to use before makeup. It's also vegan, cruelty-free, and paraben-free, so if you follow that lifestyle, then this is an excellent option for you.
Size | 30 mL |
---|---|
Skin Type | Combination, Dry, Normal, Oily, Sensitive Skin Types |
Complementary Ingredients | Jojoba, Boraje Seed, Black Currant, Rose Hip |
Below are some of the most asked questions on the web answered by board-certified dermatologist Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz.
In general, the ideal time to apply facial oils is after bathing, particularly while the skin is still damp so that moisture is effectively sealed on the skin. Of course, this would also depend on how many steps your skincare routine has and what they are. When in doubt, Ask Your Derma!
Packaging is an important consideration because you definitely want to protect the product from a thing called "oxidation."
Lipids or oils are subject to a process called oxidation (breakdown of the lipids). All oils oxidize, but some are more susceptible than others. Unsaturated lipids are more susceptible to lipid oxidation than saturated lipids. Hempseed oil, rosehip oil, sunflower seed oil are a few examples.
The hesitancy to use facial oils is not limited to those with acne-prone skin but also extends to those with oily skin. Oily skin - why would you apply more oil? It seems counterintuitive, doesn't it?
The same thing holds true: people with a lower percentage of linoleic acid in their skin tend to have more pro-inflammatory molecules in their skin which may lead to increased sebum and clogged pores. Thus, the addition of a facial oil rich in linoleic acid may help correct this deficiency.
Facial oils ≠ moisturizers. Facial oils indeed have many benefits for the skin, but they don't replace moisturizers when it comes to skin barrier maintenance and repair.
Looking for more products to add to your skincare routine? Check out these articles for more skincare products that will help you achieve a healthy, youthful glow.
10 Best Exfoliating Toners in the Philippines 2022 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist
10 Best Gel Moisturizers in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist
10 Best Sunscreens for Sensitive Skin in the Philippines 2025 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist
10 Best Korean Masks in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist
Author: Cristel Joy Aron
Re-editor: Valerie Lagura
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
No. 1: The Ordinary|100% Organic Cold-Pressed Rose Hip Seed Oil
No. 2: Human Nature|Sunflower Beauty Oil
No. 3: Lana|100% Pure Argan Oil
No. 4: Good Molecules|Bakuchiol Oil Blend for Dry Skin
No. 5: Drunk Elephant|Virgin Marula Luxury Facial Oil
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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