“Face oils are tricky,” says Kiran Mian, D.O, a board-certified dermatologist at Hudson Dermatology and Laser Surgery in New York City.One size rarely fits all in skin care and face oils are particularly nuanced.
At their most basic, face oils are hydrators with both emollient and occlusive properties (meaning they help repair the skin barrier and lock in moisture), says Hadley King, M.D., board-certified dermatologist in New York City.But they can do so much more than moisturize.
“Face oils definitely have a place with all different types of skin because they have a lot of different benefits,” says Navin Arora, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Borealis Dermatology in New York, including treating acne and redness.Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties can also deliver an added boost to your skin care routine.
So, how do you find the right face oil for your skin type? Below, I rounded up everything you need to know when shopping for one and compiled a list of options to shop based on expert guidance.Selected.Our top picks Best overall face oilYouth to the People Superberry Hydrate and Glow Face Dream Oil$41.65$49.00AmazonLearn moreBest face oil for acneHerbivore Phoenix Rosehip Anti-Aging Face Oil$undefined$58.00AmazonLearn moreBest face oil for dry skinHerbivore Lapis Facial Oil$undefined$88.00AmazonLearn moreBest head to toe oilBio-Oil Skincare Oil$10.26$11.99AmazonLearn moreSee 1 MoreRelatedselectedselectedThe 100 best moisturizers tested and ranked, according to NBC Selected editorsWant more from NBC Selected? Sign up for our newsletter, The Selection, and shop smarter.The best face oilsI asked board-certified dermatologists for their favorite face oils for various skin types and concerns. Best overallYouth to the People Superberry Hydrate and Glow Face Dream Oil$41.65$49.00AmazonNow 15% off$49.00SephoraWhat to knowWhat we likeAbsorbs quicklyProtects from free radicalsLightweight formulaSomething to noteSmall dropperIn Arora...