The SkinSort Blog

Oils in Skincare

Updated: June 26, 2023

You may be wondering why oils are becoming more popular in skincare. In the skincare world, oils are not what you think they are. In fact, many oils have great benefits for both dry and oily skin types.

Like other ingredients, oils may have benefits. Depending on the oil, benefits may include nourishing, hydrating, and providing antioxidants.

This article will cover everything you need to know to become a pro at using oils:

  • What are oils?
  • Types of oils
  • Best suited for using oils
  • Popular oils

What are oils?

In skincare, oils can be broken down into 3 categories.

1) Fragrant Oils/Essential Oils 2) Non-Fragrant 3) Synthetic/Mineral Oils

Fragrant Oils

Fragrant oils are also known as essential oils. This name can be misleading, as your skin does not necessarily need them to be healthy. They may have skin benefits but due to their fragrance may also irritate skin. Learn everything you need to know about fragrance in skincare here.

Common fragrant oils include: Lavender, Rose, Neroli, Sandalwood, Peppermint, Lime, Lemon, Eucalyptus, Jasmine, Geranium, Orange, Grapefruit, and Bergamot.

Non-Fragrant Oils

Non-Fragrant Oils are plant derived and the best oils to use on your skin. These oils often provide antioxidants and help nourish skin. They are best used to supplement current routine. For instance, mixing a drop or two into your moisturizer can help keep your skin more hydrated.

These oils are most common in skincare and are rising in popularity. Many have research backing their skin benefits. Popular non-fragrant oils include Rosehip, Squalane, Hemp Seed, Argan, Grapeseed, and Marula.

Mineral Oils

Mineral Oil is derived from petrolatum, also known as petroleum jelly. It acts as an occlusive, which means it sits on top of the skin. Cosmetics with mineral oil are made using purified petroleum jelly.

Best use for oils

Oils are best used for dry, flaky skin. In some cases, people with oily skin-type trying to compensate for dryness by producing extra oil. Thus, using oils and adding moisture to skin may help some lessen oil production.

Oils are best used for:

  • Add moisture to dry, flaky skin
  • Regulate sebum, or oil, production
  • Give a boost in nutrients
  • Increase skin elasticity
  • Provide antioxidant protection

As mentioned prior, non-fragrant plant oils have the best benefits for skin without causing irritation. These oils may contain antioxidants and emollients. They will also help boost your skin’s hydration. Oils are best used as a supplement to your existing products.

Some oils may clog pores. Those with oily or acne prone skin should look out for non-clogging oils. Argan and jojoba do not clog pores.

It is best to speak with a professional about incorporating oil into your skincare.

Non-Fragrant Oils

These oils are some of the most popular in skincare. They provide many skin benefits with research to back them up.

Fragrant Oils

These oils are considered essential oils and have a fragrance. Lavender Oil Peppermint Oil Sandalwood Oil

Mineral Oil

Paraffinum Liquidum

Further Learning

Learn more about the the big deal about Fragrance/Parfum in skincare.