All products featured on Self are independently selected by our editors.
However, we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through these links.
But that hasnt stopped companies from making new face oils seemingly every week.
paulynn/Getty Images
They usually smell great and feel luxurious, but are they actually doing anything for you?
Experts tell us that the answer to that depends on both the oil and your skin.
Yes, your skin already makes oil.
And it plays a really important role in keeping you hydrated by protecting the outer layer of your skin.
And that in turn keeps your skin hydrated.
Without natural oils, your skin will be dry.
Remember how your skin cells are like bricks and the oil is like mortar?
But, of course, its not always that simple.
However, neglecting to hydrate your skin is a key component in excess sebum production.
And then there are people with combination skin, meaning that its both dry and oily.
Basically, everyone could usesome punch in of moisturizer.
What do facial oils do, exactly?
Facial oils are seemingly everywhere right now, and they have a long history in skin care.
In fact, the ancient Egyptiansreportedlyused oils in cosmetics as early as 4500 B.C.E.
But what do face oils actually do?
The biggest benefit that comes with an oil is the moisturizing benefit.
So, how do moisturizers work?
There are essentially three ways a moisturizer can increase the water level in your skin.
They can attract water molecules and draw them into the skin.
These are inherently hydrating.
Interestingly, oils dont typically fall into this category.
The crucial factor here is the size of the fatty acid molecules that make up the oil.
If theyre too big to get through the skin barrier, they sit on top and act as occlusives.
For instance,research suggeststhatjojoba oilandargan oilcan actually help repair the skin barrier.
Whether or not an oil is the best choice for that issue is another question.
Different face oils claim to combat different skin concernsand its not always about hydration.
There are some oils that we know more about than others, he says.
And rose hip oil is often touted as havingantioxidantbenefits.
And, of course, those are valid reasons to use a product.
(After all, itsthe oil in poison ivythat causes its characteristicrash, Dr. Zampella says.)
As a reminder: Just because something is natural doesnt mean its inherently safe.
Like any skin-care product, oils are not for everyone.
But that doesnt mean they arent worth a try.
For dry or dehydrated skin:Dry skin is most likely to reap benefits from using face oils.
The most effective way to rehydrate dry skin, however, is to drink enough water throughout the day.
But youll have to choose one with care.
Its also especially important if youre using harsh, drying acne products, as we mentioned above.
As usual, the best place to get your questions answered is your derm.
Not all oils are created equally.