If you’ve been wanting to experiment with your skincare regime, investing in natural oils is a safe bet. Contrary to the belief that oils clog your pores and aggravate acne, they complement the natural oils produced by our skin and help keep a balance. With the plethora of natural oils available out there, you can curb n number of skin woes from dehydrated dull skin to even eczema. Since these oils are directly extracted from different parts of the plant (flowers, leaves, seeds), their powerful ingredients possess anti-ageing, hydrating, antibacterial and healing properties. Every oil has a different formulation of nutrients, absorption rate, weight and consistency that makes it better suited for one skin type than the other. Incorporating natural oils in your skincare regime is bound to give positive and lasting effects, provided you know which natural oil best serves your skin’s concerns.

Consider this as your guide to sort out natural oils that best suit you:

ARGAN OIL

This culinary staple from Morocco, is loaded with Vitamin E and when used topically has wondrous benefits for your skin. Moroccan women are said to use Argan Oil to protect their skin from sun damage. The antioxidants found in this oil prevents sun burns and hyper-pigmentation. It is neither too heavy nor too light, making it a perfect moisturiser for all skin types. Well, technically oils cant be moisturisers but they do prevent your skin’s natural moisture from being evaporated. So apply Argan Oil on dampish skin or massage it on top of your moisturiser and lock in its hydrating ingredients! This one is an obvious choice to add to your skincare cabinet.

Shop Here: Nyassa Cold Pressed Moroccan Argan Oil

GRAPE SEED OIL

A constant in most anti-ageing creams, Grape Seed Oil is high in polyphenols which is proven to not just fight premature ageing but also reverse any signs of ageing by softening lines and wrinkles, disappearing sunspots and tightening the skin. Add 2-3 drops to your daily moisturiser for a fresh anti-ageing boost. Grape seed oil can also help reduce acne, its linoleic acid helps decreasing clogged pores.

Shop Here: Cold Pressed Grape Seed Carrier Oil by Juicy Chemistry

MARULA OIL

Also known as the ‘elixir of youth’, it is derived from the nuts of the Marula tree found in Southern Africa. This nutty and floral fragranced oil can act as a perfect moisturiser for dry and oily skin since it is non-greasy and gets quickly absorbed. You can use Marula oil to treat body acne too as its antimicrobial properties help fight against bacteria that cause pimples, itching, redness and dryness. It is said to prevent stretch marks and smoothen fine lines by retaining the skin’s elasticity and suppleness. Marula oil is also an excellent frizz tamer, so you might want to look for this ingredient in your hair products henceforth.

Shop Here: Cold Pressed Virgin Marula Oil by The Ordinary

ROSEHIP SEED OIL

My personal favourite and a fantastic anti-ager, Rosehip Seed Oil helps increase your cell turnover rate giving you a smoother complexion. Our body produces less collagen as we age, but the ingredient trio of anti-inflammatory fatty acids, vitamins A and C found in Rosehip Seed Oil is proven to boost your skin’s collagen production. If you’ve noticed your skin sagging lately, this oil will help you regain its elasticity. It also acts as an excellent exfoliator when combined with baking soda, however, avoid doing this if you have acne-prone skin.

Shop Here: Organic Cold Pressed Rosehip Seed Oil

BLUE TANSY OIL

On top of its gorgeous aquamarine colour, Blue Tansy Oil brims with anti-inflammatory properties. The chemicals found in this botanical help sooth any redness or irritation and help repair UV-damaged skin. Rich in anti-fungal and antiseptic properties, Blue Tansy Oil is also highly effective against skin infections and breakouts. Bear in mind that this oil must not be applied alone but with a carrier oil such as jojoba oil or coconut oil. Adding Blue Tansy Oil to your self-care ritual promises relaxation and relief from anxiety too, just add a few drops to your aromatherapy diffuser when you are ready to call it a day!

Shop Here: Seriously Soothing Blue Tansy Night Oil by Acure

Now that you’re up to speed with which oil is best suited for your skin type, you know that natural oils are a key choice to make if you’re looking for a safer and more organic upgrade to your skin care. If you’re convinced to stock up on any of these natural oils, feel free to share your experience with us in the comments below! And do not forget to patch test before you drench yourself in these natural oils ;)