Natural oils, such as coconut oil, shea butter oil, and olive oil, have been used for centuries for skin and hair care.
Skincare experts explain that healthy, glowing skin needs both hydration and moisturization. Hydration adds water to the skin, keeping skin cells plump and fresh. Moisturization helps lock in that water by forming a protective barrier, preventing dryness and water loss.
Natural facial oils closely match the skin’s own oils, which helps strengthen the skin barrier and protect against environmental damage. These oils fill tiny gaps on the skin’s surface, making it smoother and softer.
Applying facial oil as the final step in a skincare routine seals in hydration, keeping the skin nourished, balanced, and glowing all day long.
Top Natural Oils for Smooth and Glowing Skin
Before you apply any oils to the skin, it’s essential to receive a recommendation from your doctor. But to get you started, here are some of the most popular varieties of natural oils.1. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is easily absorbed into the skin and is known to have many health benefits, including those from vitamins E and K, as well as its antifungal and antibacterial properties. The one big exception? Along with cocoa butter, coconut oil is likely to cause breakouts. “In general, coconut oil is a great option for almost everybody, except if you have oily skin and you're acne prone, I would not use it on the face,” Katta says.
In one study, researchers found coconut oil was better than olive oil at moisturizing skin when used in a carrier. Remember to look for cold-pressed, unrefined coconut oil for your face or skin care.
2. Olive Oil
Olive oil doesn’t typically trigger allergic reactions, Katta says, but for the best results, be sure to opt for the extra-virgin variety. Olive oil contains vitamins A, D, E, and K, and some research offers scientific evidence of its potential as a moisturizer.[8] With its heavy consistency, it is a great choice for an all-body application, Katta says. Try an olive oil cleanser or bar of soap for a clean that won't dry out your skin.
But olive oil may not be the best skin oil for people with acne-prone skin.[9] Other noncomedogenic oils, such as sunflower oil, safflower oil, and jojoba oil, are better choices for people with acne because they do not clog pores.
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3. Sunflower Seed Oil
Sunflower seed oil is widely available, high in vitamin E, and absorbs easily into the skin, making it an excellent choice as a natural moisturizer. One study found that sunflower oil better protected the skin’s barrier in infants and didn’t cause or aggravate atopic dermatitis (a form of eczema) as much as olive oil.[10]
4. Shea Butter
Derived from the nuts of the African shea tree, shea butter is a tallow-like substance that is commonly found in a solid form, but it melts at body temperature, and is sometimes used as a moisturizer and hair product, says Katta, adding she hasn’t seen her patients have allergic reactions to it. Unrefined, organic shea butter can also be combined with olive or coconut oil to create a smoother texture for application.
5. Almond Oil
Made from pressed raw almonds, almond oil is full of health benefits, such as vitamin E, zinc, proteins, and potassium. It has a lighter texture than olive oil and shea butter, which many find appealing to use on the face. But Katta says that sweet almond oil can result in allergic responses, so she recommends avoiding it if you have sensitive skin.
