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Creating a skin care ritual should feel invigorating, not overwhelming. But when your skin is constantly feeling tight, loose, or dull, even the thickest layer of moisturizer can fall short. If dryness persists despite your best efforts, it may be a sign that your skin needs more than just hydration—it needs nourishment.
This is where the best facial oils for dry skin come in. When used correctly—either layered over moisturizer or pressed into damp skin—facial oils help seal moisture and reduce transepidermal water loss. The result is skin that feels softer, calmer, and looks brighter. As a bonus, many oils bring a subtle sensory element to your routine, turning a basic step into something that feels comfortable.
To help us navigate the rich world of facial oils, we tapped dermatologist and celebrity esthetician Natalie Aguilar.
Featured image from our interview with Sabeena Ladha by Michelle Nash.
Natalie Aguilar
LA-based Esthetician and licensed skin nurse Natalie Aguilar—a true “skin therapist”—works with many celebrities to keep them looking camera-ready. As the founder of N4 Skincare, Natalie brings 19 years of experience to her work. He spent years training and learning from the best, where he acquired the most sensitive and technical art of healing. Combining her knowledge of medicine and skincare, she also serves as a global educator to others in the skincare industry.
What Can Cause Dry Skin?
Before reaching for new products, it helps to understand what causes dryness. Identifying the root cause can guide you in the right direction—and prevent further irritation. Below, Aguilar breaks down the most common offenders.
The environment. “Living in cold, windy, low-humidity areas, or frequent flights can strip the skin of its natural moisture,” explains Aguilar. “Heaters and air conditioners also reduce humidity—you can feel dry air when you breathe.” Environmental stressors can disrupt the skin’s barrier, leaving it tight and depleted.
Deeply Peeling Your Skin. Long, hot showers and brutal exfoliation may feel satisfying, but they can weaken your barrier. “Showering more than once a day or scrubbing too hard removes the natural oils that protect your skin,” says Aguilar. His advice: clean gently and moisturize immediately after showering.
Dehydration. Sometimes the solution is simple. “Not drinking enough water can leave skin dry, dull, and more prone to fine lines,” says Aguilar. Topical products can help, but a well-hydrated and nutritious diet is the foundation.
Genetics and Skin Conditions. Some people are prone to thirst, especially those with conditions such as eczema or psoriasis. In these cases, the principle of supporting obstacles is important.
Getting old. “As we age, our skin loses its ability to retain water—especially when exposed to sun damage,” adds Aguilar. Over time, moisture retention naturally decreases, making nutritious products even more important.
What Ingredients Should You Look For In Facial Oils For Dry Skin?
Oil is no longer allowed in skin care. In fact, the best facial oils for dry skin work by replenishing the natural lipids your sebaceous glands already produce—strengthening the barrier rather than weakening it.
Aguilar highlights key ingredients to look for:
Lipids and Ceramides. “These natural oils reside in different parts of the skin,” explains Aguilar. “They promote moisture retention and strengthen the protective barrier.” Think of them as reinforcements for vulnerable skin.
Hyaluronic Acid. Although most common in serums, hyaluronic acid can also appear in oil formulations. “It binds water and acts as a reservoir,” Aguilar said. Because natural levels decrease over the years, support can help restore bounce and comfort.
Nutritious Natural Oils. Grape seed, olive, almond, jojoba, marula, avocado, and coconut oils contain essential acids that nourish dry skin. Oils high in oleic acid—such as marula and avocado—are rich and effective at retaining moisture. Vitamin E is often added as an antioxidant and natural preservative.
Ingredients To Avoid If You Have Dry Skin
“If you’re dealing with dry skin, it’s best to avoid products that contain fragrance and alcohol,” explains Aguilar. The smell is a common irritant and can cause allergic reactions, while too much alcohol strips the skin of its natural oils, making dryness worse than relieving it.
When Should You Apply Facial Oil?
“The oil-before-lube debate is never-ending,” Aguilar said. Although conventional wisdom suggests using products from thinnest to thickest, facial oils are more versatile than most people realize.
“You can use the oil before moisturizing, after moisturizing, or even mix it in,” she explains. Squeezing a few drops over your cream helps with hydration, while mixing oil into a moisturizer creates a rich texture—perfect for even the most dry skin.
Best Face Oils for Dry Skin
If dryness persists despite applying creams and serums, a carefully selected facial oil can make a difference. The best facial oils for dry skin don’t just sit on the surface—they strengthen your barrier, reduce water loss, and deliver nourishing acids that help skin feel soft, supple, and soothed. Below, we’ve sorted our favorites by texture and thickness so you can find the perfect fit for your skin’s needs.
Lightweight Face Oil
If your skin is dry but easily congested—or you prefer something that absorbs quickly—this light oil delivers nourishment without the hassle. Perfect for layering under moisturizer or pressing onto damp skin for a subtle glow.
The Best Rich Face Oils
For persistently dry or mature skin, rich oils provide deep nourishment. These formulas work well at night or as the last step in your hydration routine.
The Best Face Oils Worth the Splurge
These investment formulas pair nutrient-dense oils with high-performance ingredients. If you want both flexibility and visible results, this delivers.
This post was last updated on February 16, 2026, to include new information.