By Emille Mendoza | Last Updated: March 19, 2026
Plant-based oils have been celebrated for centuries for good reason. They're packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that work in harmony with your skin's natural functions, not against them.
The right natural oil can transform and revive your skin in ways that synthetic products simply can't match.
But with so many natural body oil options out there, knowing where to start isn't always easy.
In this guide, we'll break down the best natural oils for every skin type, show you exactly how to apply them, and help you build a routine that leaves your body feeling soft, supple, and genuinely radiant.
Key Takeaways
- Match your natural oil to your skin type: coconut oil for dry skin, grapeseed oil for oily skin, and sweet almond oil for sensitive skin.
- Apply a dime sized amount of oil onto clean, damp skin using circular motions to maximize absorption and lock in moisture.
- Apply body oils right after a shower or bath while your skin is still slightly damp. This helps the oil absorb more effectively and locks in the moisture already sitting on the surface.
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The Best Natural Oils for Skin and Body
Not all natural oils are created equal. Each one brings its own unique blend of fatty acids, vitamins, and antioxidants to the table, and understanding those differences is what separates a routine that works from one that just smells nice.
Here are eleven of the most effective natural oils you should know about, and exactly what each one does for your skin.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is the ultimate multi-tasker in natural skincare. Its rich, moisturizing properties make it an excellent choice for full-body hydration, locking in essential moisture and preventing dryness before it starts.
Beyond hydration, coconut oil also carries natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory qualities, making it genuinely useful for soothing irritated skin and even combating body odor.
To use it, massage a small amount onto clean, damp skin and focus on areas that run extra dry. If you're ready to try it for yourself, you can find coconut oil formulas in our body oils collection.
Sunflower Seed Oil
Sunflower seed oil absorbs fast, leaves no greasy residue, and works quietly in the background to protect and nourish your skin. Its high linoleic acid content supports the skin barrier, helping to lock in moisture and keep irritants out.
It's a strong all-rounder for oily, combination, and sensitive skin types, gentle enough not to aggravate reactive skin, and light enough to wear comfortably under clothing. Apply it to clean, damp skin and it will absorb before you've finished getting ready.
Grapeseed Oil
Grapeseed oil is one of the most underrated options for oily and combination skin. It's lightweight, absorbs quickly, and is naturally non-comedogenic, meaning it won't block pores or add to congestion. What it will do is help regulate sebum production over time, so skin stays balanced rather than oscillating between oily and dry.
Rich in linoleic acid and vitamin E, grapeseed oil also delivers a quiet but consistent dose of antioxidant protection. Massage a small amount into clean skin and let it absorb fully. The finish is clean, never greasy.
Olive Oil
Olive oil has been used on skin for thousands of years, and its staying power is well earned. Rich in oleic acid, squalene, and vitamins A, D, E, and K, it's one of the most nourishing options available for very dry or mature skin. It forms a protective layer on the skin's surface that helps prevent moisture loss and supports long-term skin softness.
It's best suited to dry skin types and areas of the body that are particularly parched, think elbows, heels, and knees. Those with oily or acne-prone skin should use it with caution, as its high oleic acid content can contribute to congestion. For dry skin, though, it's a deeply satisfying choice.
Jojoba Oil
Jojoba oil has a unique trick up its sleeve: it closely resembles your skin's natural sebum. That similarity means it helps balance oil production, keeping both dryness and excess shine in check at the same time.
It's also been shown to soothe irritation, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and support a healthy skin barrier. Apply a few drops onto clean skin and massage gently until fully absorbed. That's really all it takes.
Argan Oil
There's a reason argan oil gets called "liquid gold." Packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and fatty acids, it's a genuine skincare superstar that can improve skin elasticity, diminish the appearance of scars and stretch marks, and restore a radiant, youthful glow.
For best results, work argan oil into a weekly or monthly self-care ritual. Massage it into clean, dry skin and allow it to soak in fully before rinsing off. Your skin will tell you the difference quickly.
Rosehip Seed Oil
If fine lines, sun damage, and uneven skin tone are your biggest concerns, rosehip seed oil is your new essential. Its high vitamin C content and essential fatty acids work together to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, even out skin tone, and deliver deep, long-lasting hydration.
Use it as a targeted treatment for problem areas, or weave it into your overall body care routine for a consistently healthy, glowing complexion. Either way, it earns its place in the cabinet.
Sweet Almond Oil
Sweet almond oil is genuinely gentle, absorbs without fuss, and delivers steady nourishment without triggering reactions. Its natural vitamin E content helps maintain skin softness over time, while its light texture means it never feels heavy or occlusive on the skin.
It works well as an everyday body oil or as a calming treatment after sun exposure or shaving. Massage a small amount into clean, damp skin and let it absorb fully. Skin that reacts to almost everything tends to get along with sweet almond oil just fine.
Chamomile Oil
Chamomile oil calms redness, reduces irritation, and helps the skin hold its defensive barrier against environmental stressors. Its anti-inflammatory properties are well-documented, making it one of the more reliable choices for skin that flares up easily.
Use it sparingly on areas prone to redness or irritation, or blend a few drops into your regular body moisturizer for a gentler daily application. It's not flashy, but it does exactly what it promises.
Safflower Oil
Safflower oil is lightweight, non-comedogenic, and absorbs cleanly without leaving a residue. Its high linoleic acid content makes it particularly useful for skin that tends toward congestion, helping to keep pores clear rather than contributing to blockages.
It's not the most talked-about oil on the shelf, but for the right skin type it delivers exactly what's needed. Apply it to clean skin, let it absorb, and get on with your day.
Tamanu Oil
Tamanu oil has a distinctive quality that sets it apart from lighter body oils: it actively helps control shine while still nourishing the skin. Its natural astringent properties make it a strong choice for oily skin that needs balancing rather than just hydrating. It also carries mild antibacterial qualities, which can be useful for skin prone to congestion or minor blemishes.
A little goes a long way with tamanu oil. Work a small amount into clean skin using gentle circular motions and allow it to absorb fully. The result is skin that feels refreshed and genuinely balanced, not stripped or over-moisturized.
Pro Tip: If you're new to natural oils, start with just one. Coconut or jojoba oil are both forgiving choices for most skin types. Introduce a second oil only once you know how your skin responds. Layering too many new products at once makes it impossible to know what's actually working.
Choosing the Right Natural Oil for Your Skin Type
Here's the honest truth: the best natural oil is the one that suits your skin, not the one that's trending. Your skin type and concerns should drive every choice you make. Here's your quick-reference guide.
Oils for Dry Skin
| Oil | Key Benefits |
|---|---|
| Coconut Oil | Intensely hydrating, with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties to soothe dryness and irritated skin. |
| Olive Oil | Rich in oleic acid and vitamins A, D, E, and K, deeply nourishing for very dry or mature skin and helps prevent moisture loss. |
| Argan Oil | Packed with antioxidants and fatty acids to improve skin elasticity, reduce the appearance of scars and stretch marks, and restore a healthy glow. |
| Rosehip Seed Oil | High in vitamin C and essential fatty acids to reduce fine lines, even out skin tone, and deliver long-lasting hydration. |
Dry skin needs oils that go deep:
- Coconut oil brings intense hydration alongside antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, making it especially useful if your skin tends toward dryness and irritation.
- Olive oil is one of the most nourishing options for very dry or mature skin, forming a protective layer on the surface that helps retain moisture and keep skin soft over time.
- Argan oil improves elasticity and targets the visible signs of skin stress, from scars to stretch marks, with consistent use.
- Rosehip seed oil rounds out the dry skin toolkit, tackling fine lines, uneven tone, and dehydration all at once.
Oils for Oily Skin
| Oil | Key Benefits |
|---|---|
| Grapeseed Oil | Lightweight and non-comedogenic, helping to regulate sebum production and minimize the appearance of pores. |
| Sunflower Seed Oil | Absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy residue, while providing antioxidant protection and supporting the skin barrier. |
| Tamanu Oil | Possesses natural astringent properties to control shine and leave the skin feeling refreshed. |
| Jojoba Oil | Mimics the skin's natural sebum to help balance oil production and keep both dryness and excess shine in check. |
Oily skin and body oils might sound like a contradiction, but it's not:
- Grapeseed oil is lightweight, non-comedogenic, and actually helps regulate sebum production, meaning it can reduce excess shine over time, not add to it.
- Sunflower seed oil absorbs quickly without leaving any greasy residue, while supporting the skin barrier and delivering antioxidant protection your skin needs.
- Tamanu oil brings natural astringent properties to the mix, controlling shine and leaving skin feeling genuinely refreshed.
- Jojoba oil is the balancing act in this group, its similarity to the skin's own sebum means it helps keep oil production steady rather than pushing it in either direction.
Oils for Sensitive Skin
| Oil | Key Benefits |
|---|---|
| Sweet Almond Oil | Gentle, non-irritating, and deeply nourishing for sensitive, easily-inflamed skin types. |
| Chamomile Oil | Soothing and calming, helping to reduce redness and provide a protective barrier for sensitive skin. |
| Safflower Oil | Lightweight and non-comedogenic, making it a safe choice for those with sensitive, acne-prone skin. |
| Jojoba Oil | Closely resembles the skin's natural sebum, making it a gentle, well-tolerated option that soothes irritation and supports a healthy skin barrier. |
Sensitive skin needs oils that soothe first and do everything else second:
- Sweet almond oil is your best bet, gentle, non-irritating, and deeply nourishing for skin that reacts easily.
- Chamomile oil is exceptionally calming, reducing redness and forming a protective barrier that helps sensitive skin hold its ground.
- Safflower oil is the lightweight, non-comedogenic option for those who are sensitive and acne-prone, giving you nourishment without the risk of clogged pores.
- Jojoba oil is a reliable choice for sensitive skin too, its compatibility with the skin's own sebum means it rarely triggers reactions, while still delivering genuine barrier support.
Pro Tip: If you have sensitive skin, always perform a patch test before applying any new oil widely. Apply a small amount to the inside of your wrist, wait 24 hours, and check for redness or irritation before committing to full-body use.
How to Incorporate Natural Oils into Your Skincare Routine
Getting the most from a natural oil isn't complicated, but technique matters more than most people realize. Done right, oils absorb beautifully and leave your skin glowing. Done wrong, you'll just feel greasy.
Applying Natural Oils
- Start with a small amount (approximately a dime size portion) and massage it into clean, damp skin using circular motions for maximum absorption.
- Focus on areas that tend to run drier, such as the elbows, knees, and heels. If you're prone to breakouts, avoid applying oils directly to the face.
- Allow the oil to fully absorb into the skin before getting dressed or heading out, so your skin can take in the full benefit.
The circular motion isn't just habit. It actively encourages absorption and helps the oil work into the skin rather than sitting on top of it. Give it 60 seconds per area and you'll notice the difference immediately.
Layering Oils with Other Products
Natural oils play well with others. Try mixing a few drops into your favorite body lotion or moisturizer, or apply your chosen oil as the final step in your routine to seal in all the hydration underneath. Both approaches work, and you decide which fits your routine better.
For an extra pampering experience, add a small amount of oil to a warm bath and allow it to melt into the water. Your skin will absorb it gently as you soak, leaving you feeling genuinely nourished rather than just surface-moisturized.
Safety Considerations
Natural oils are generally gentle and well-tolerated, but that doesn't mean every oil works for every person. If you're trying something new, always perform a patch test first, apply a small amount, wait 24 hours, and watch for redness, irritation, or breakouts before using it more widely.
Some natural oils can increase sun sensitivity. Always apply sunscreen when heading outdoors, especially if you've used an oil on exposed skin. It's a simple step, but a crucial one.
Body Oil FAQs
What are the benefits of using coconut oil for the body?
Coconut oil delivers deep moisturization, antibacterial properties to soothe irritation, and natural deodorizing effects. Its rich formula locks in essential moisture and helps prevent dryness, making it one of the most versatile natural oils for full-body use.
How do I choose the best natural oil for my skin type?
Knowing your skin type is the best way to identify which natural oil will suit you best. Dry skin responds well to deeply moisturizing oils like avocado or coconut oil. Oily or acne-prone skin does better with lightweight, non-comedogenic options like grapeseed or sunflower seed oil. Sensitive skin types should look for gentle, calming oils like sweet almond or chamomile.
Can I use natural oils on my face as well as my body?
Facial skin is thinner, more reactive, and more prone to congestion, so it needs lighter, non-comedogenic oils applied in small amounts. Body skin is generally more resilient and can handle richer, heavier formulas. Oils like coconut or avocado that work beautifully on the body may be too occlusive for facial use, particularly if you're prone to breakouts. When in doubt, keep your facial and body oils separate.
What is the healthiest oil for your body?
There's no single healthiest body oil for everyone, as everyone's body is unique. The healthiest oil is the one your skin actually responds well to. That said, jojoba and rosehip seed oil are consistently well-tolerated across a wide range of skin types and concerns. Jojoba works in harmony with your skin's natural sebum, while rosehip seed oil delivers vitamin C and essential fatty acids that support long-term skin health. Start with either and adjust from there based on what your skin tells you.
Is there a best time of day to apply body oil?
Applying body oil right after a shower or bath is ideal. Your skin is still slightly damp, which helps the oil absorb more effectively and locks in the moisture already sitting on the surface. Morning application works well if you prefer a subtle glow through the day, while applying at night gives the oil more time to absorb without the interference of clothing or movement. Either works. Consistency matters more than timing.
Is grapeseed oil good for oily skin?
Grapeseed oil is one of the better choices for oily skin. Grapeseed oil is lightweight, absorbs quickly, and is non-comedogenic, so it won't contribute to congestion. Its high linoleic acid content also helps regulate sebum production over time, which means regular use can actually help keep excess shine in check rather than adding to it. It's a smart option for anyone with oily or combination skin who wants the benefits of an oil without the heaviness.
What is sunflower seed oil good for?
Sunflower seed oil is a reliable all-rounder that suits a wide range of skin types. It's particularly well-suited to oily, combination, and sensitive skin because it absorbs fast, leaves no greasy residue, and is unlikely to trigger irritation. Its linoleic acid content helps strengthen the skin barrier, supporting moisture retention and protection from environmental stressors. If you want an oil that gets on with the job quietly and effectively, sunflower seed oil is worth keeping on hand.
Can you use olive oil on your body?
Yes you can use olive oil on your body, with some caveats. Olive oil is deeply nourishing and works well for very dry or mature skin, particularly on areas like the elbows, heels, and knees that tend to lose moisture quickly. Its richness makes it less suitable for oily or acne-prone skin, as its high oleic acid content can contribute to congestion if used broadly. For dry skin types looking for something genuinely nourishing, it's a solid choice used in moderation.
Conclusion
Natural oils are more than a moisturizing step. They're a way to genuinely nourish your skin using ingredients that have proven their worth across centuries of use.
Coconut, jojoba, argan, rosehip seed, grapeseed, sunflower seed, and olive oil each bring something distinct to a body care routine, and knowing which one serves your skin best is what separates average results from a routine that truly works.
The right match comes down to understanding your skin type, applying with the right technique, and giving your skin a chance to respond. From dry and flaky to oily and congested to sensitive and reactive, there's a natural oil, and a combination of oils, that's exactly right for what you're dealing with.
Start with one oil, learn what your skin loves, and build from there. Mastering your natural oil routine means showing up every day in skin that looks and feels genuinely healthy, and that kind of confidence is worth every drop. Browse our body oil range to find the right match for your skin.
By Emille Mendoza
Founder
Emille launched Boracay Skin in 2015, inspired by the skincare benefits of coconut oil she discovered in Boracay, Philippines. Starting with one handmade product, the brand quickly gained traction, landing in Urban Outfitters and partnering with major events like Miami Swim Week. By 2018, Emille took Boracay Skin full-time, expanding the product line and growing the business to five and six-figure monthly revenues. Her entrepreneurial success earned her a spot as a finalist in the Business News Australia Young Entrepreneur Awards and her expertise has also been featured in media outlets like Daily Mail and Ticker TV.
