3 Top Tips for Choosing a Facial Oil That Actually Works
If you’ve ever stood in front of a shelf of facial oils wondering which one is actually worth your time (and money), you’re not alone. With so many brands, textures, and price points, choosing the right facial oil can feel overwhelming — especially for midlife skin.
In this post, I’m sharing my three top tips for selecting a facial oil that nourishes, supports your skin’s natural barrier, and feels luxurious — without paying over the odds. I’ll also talk about some popular brands and why quality ingredients matter more than packaging.
Tip 1: Look at the Ingredients
The first thing to check is the ingredient list. A high-quality facial oil should contain oils that support your skin naturally and avoid unnecessary fillers.
Key oils to look for:
Jojoba Oil – mimics the skin’s natural sebum, absorbs beautifully, and balances oil production.
Rosehip Seed Oil – supports skin renewal, elasticity, and brightness.
Camellia & Borage Oils – rich in essential fatty acids, antioxidants, and gentle repair properties.
💡 Pro Tip: Avoid oils with synthetic fragrances or long ingredient lists full of unrecognizable names. Clear, nourishing ingredients are a sign of quality.
Brand Examples:
Mainstream: The Ordinary, Weleda
Bespoke: Raven Botanicals, Asapoth
These are accessible, high-quality oils that work well for midlife skin, whether you’re already a skincare fan or exploring new products.
Tip 2: Consider Viscosity and Skin Type
Facial oils vary in thickness, and choosing the right viscosity is important for how your skin feels and absorbs the oil.
Light oils like jojoba, sunflower, or rosehip are great for most skin types, including combination or sensitive skin.
Heavier oils like avocado, argan, or wheat germ provide intense nourishment but can feel heavy on non-dry skin.
💡 Pro Tip: Midlife skin often benefits from lighter oils that deliver hydration and support barrier repair without feeling greasy.
When testing an oil, take a few drops and feel how it absorbs — this is one of the easiest ways to choose a product you’ll enjoy using daily.
Tip 3: Price Doesn’t Always Equal Performance
A common misconception is that higher price equals better results. Luxury oils, like Victoria Beckham or Charlotte Tilbury, are beautiful — but you’re often paying for the brand and packaging, not necessarily a noticeable difference in skin results.
A high-quality facial oil with thoughtful botanicals and clean ingredients can be found around £28–£35, and your skin will thank you just as much. Boutique brands like Raven Botanicals or Asapoth create oils made from the heart, with superior ingredients and therapeutic benefits.
💡 Pro Tip: If you already love a product that works for your skin, keep using it. The key is ingredients, absorption, and ritual, not just brand prestige.
My Take for Midlife Skin
Choosing the right facial oil isn’t about chasing trends — it’s about connecting with ingredients that truly nourish your skin and fit into your self-care rituals. Whether you prefer a mainstream favorite or a bespoke botanical oil, knowing what to look for ensures you’re making smart choices.
If you want a simple guide to building a skincare routine that supports midlife skin, self-care, and daily radiance, I’ve created a FREE Skin Radiance Guide. It’s packed with tips and product recommendations to help you choose products that truly work for you.
Download your free guide here: Natural Skin Secrets
