The 16 Best Face Oils for Dry and Flaky Skin

If there’s one thing you should know about me, it’s that when the weather gets cold, and my heater cranks into high gear, my skin starts to die of thirst. Dry patches, peeling skin, and dusty legs are all part of the package. Colder temperatures mean your skin needs some extra TLC. I love a great hydrating moisturizer as much as the next beauty editor, but sometimes even the creamiest option falls short. Viral slugging is another option, but wiping goop off my silk pillowcases isn’t a super pleasant experience. One of the best ways to combat dryness this season is by adding a facial oil to your skincare arsenal. But don’t let the word “oil” deter you: face oils are an excellent source of nutrients and moisture, even for people with acne-prone and oily skin.

Every formula is different, but what matters most is how you incorporate it into your routine. In skin care, it’s important to use formulas from lightest to heaviest, Dr. Geeta Yadav says. “When you apply face oil depends on the weight of the oil itself. Generally speaking, that means you’d apply an essence before a serum, a serum before a moisturizer, and a moisturizer before a face oil,” she explains. If your oil is lighter than your moisturizer, Dr. Yadav says it’s fine to switch the two.

Once you secure a gentle cleanser, treatment serum, and moisturizing face cream, scroll down for the 16 best facial oils to add to your routine.