Oils are an excellent way to moisturize skin and hair, and the best drying oils have the benefits of being light and quickly absorbed. “Essentially, drying oils are those that don’t leave any oily residue on your skin, hair or nails when you use them. These come mainly from vegetable and seed oils and contain high concentrations of linoleic acid, which helps to repair our skin barrier, ”explained the state-certified dermatologist Dr. Sandy Skotnicki to Elite Daily.
Some popular drying oils are jojoba, avocado, sunflower, safflower, sesame, and rose hip oils. All are high in antioxidants and polyunsaturated fatty acids – including linoleic acid – to help protect and moisturize your skin and hair. “Because they are light and repair the skin barrier, they are good moisturizers for the skin and hair and can help moisturize the cuticles,” explains Dr. Skotnicki. The choice of oil will largely depend on your preference, although some oils can be particularly beneficial for your hair. “There is some research that suggests that oils that have more monounsaturated fats penetrate the hair cuticle better, like avocado oil,” says Dr. Skotnicki. And if possible, look for cold-pressed oils that will help retain nutrients.
In addition to the oil itself, you should also consider the method of application. Drying oils usually come in bottles with droppers, pumps, and spray nozzles, and your choice will depend on what is easiest for you. A dropper or pump is great for applying oil to your face, scalp, and cuticles, or mixing it into your favorite moisturizer. In the meantime, a spray bottle is helpful for quickly covering large areas and applying oil to the hair.
The best drying oils are quickly absorbed by the skin and nourish the hair without weighing it down. Find the wording that’s right for you below.
1. The overall best
Cold-pressed to retain the skin-friendly nutrients inside, this jojoba oil is unrefined and USDA certified. The light, quickly absorbed oil naturally contains vitamins E and B. It also mimics the skin’s natural sebum very closely, helps to balance the body’s own oil production and does not clog the pores. The oil is a fantastic option as a face and body moisturizer, and can also help soothe itchy scalp, protect hair from split ends, and add shine. It can also be used to moisturize dry cuticles. The multitasking oil is safe for all skin types and has more than 38,000 reviews on Amazon with an equally impressive overall rating of 4.7 stars.
A promising review: “I bought this to get rid of some dry skin on my face. It made my skin so soft and looking so good that I added it to my normal routine every morning and evening. It made a huge difference. I will never go without it again. “
2. An expert-recommended oil that is great for oily and combination skin
This drying oil serum with 49% jojoba oil is a favorite of Dr. Skotnicki. The serum contains vitamin E and camellia oil, another drying oil that penetrates deep into the skin and is very nourishing. The vegan serum is free from parabens, phthalates, sulfates, mineral oil and artificial colors and preservatives. It is particularly suitable for oily and combination skin and ensures a dewy finish.
A promising review: “I was amazed at how moisturizing and light this serum is. I used it at night. It’s been about 3 weeks now and my worrying chin looks clean and clear and my face is bright. “
3. An avocado oil that is great for your hair and skin
This 100% pure avocado oil is very moisturizing and quickly absorbed, making it an excellent option for both hair and skin. The oil is cold pressed to help it retain its vital nutrients and is also a great carrier oil for essential oil hair treatments. The bottle has a handy pump dispenser that makes it easy to drink just a few drops at a time. Plus, this popular drying oil has received more than 7,000 five-star reviews from Amazon buyers.
A promising review: “This stuff is amazing. Not only does it moisturize my body, face and hair, the scent is really pleasant. Small things have a big impact. I would recommend this product to anyone and everyone. “
4. A sesame body oil popular with fans
This sesame body oil has an impressive 4.8-star overall rating and over 14,000 reviews on Amazon. The light drying oil is best used on shower-dampened skin to lock in moisture and should soak in in 20 to 30 seconds. However, this oil contains artificial fragrances that you should avoid if you are sensitive.
A promising review: “I love everything about this product. I like that it keeps my skin hydrated for several days and between showers. No ashy skin even after 3 days without other moisturizers. I apply it in the shower and lightly pat it dry. The smell reminds me of a vacation on the beach. “
5. A face oil worth indulging in
The squalane obtained from sugar cane in this Peter Thomas Roth oil leaves the skin moisturized, soft and radiant. The 100% squalane oil also prevents water loss and keeps the skin moisturized for longer. The formula is still very light and is quickly absorbed, without any greasy residue. Although it is more expensive than other drying oils included here, you only need to use two drops a day for the bottle to last a long time.
A promising review: “I was really surprised with this product. It only takes 2 drops so it will last forever. It works like an oil on my face, but is absorbed much better than other oils. The make-up looks great on top and doesn’t get the oily mix look that I had with other oils. “
6. This rose hip spray for the body and scalp
Not only is this rosehip drying oil quickly absorbed and nutritious, it comes in an easy-to-use spray bottle that is great for the body and hair as it easily spreads the oil over a large area. The cold-pressed oil is high in antioxidants, including vitamins C and A, and is backed by an overall 4.6-star rating on Amazon.
A promising review: “I have acne-prone combination skin so I have to be careful with the oils I use, but I can smear this oil on my hair and inevitably get something on my face and it won’t break me. I even use it on my body and it’s soooo moisturizing. My hair and skin feel so hydrated and smooth. “
7. A nail treatment with safflower and sunflower oil
The Cuccio Milk and Honey nail oil is a fan favorite and has has received more than 75,000 five-star ratings. The formula contains cold-pressed safflower and sunflower oils, honey and vitamin E to soothe and moisturize dry skin, cuticles and nails. It also contains milk that contains lactic acid, which stimulates the skin. The nail oil is quickly absorbed and free of parabens, but contains artificial fragrances.
A promising review: “I loved that the hydration was instant and dry skin was gone in 2 days. Used on nails and fingers morning and evening. Smells delicious !! ”
Expert:
Dr. Sandy Skotnicki, state-certified dermatologist and founder of the Toronto’s Bay Dermatology Center
