The best oils for wrinkles in my honest opinion

Ever stand in front of the mirror and think, hmm… this skin could use a bit of help?

OH, yes, I’ve been there. And I know how frustrating it can be after spending lots of money on skincare that seems to do nothing (is it? who knows).

The oils I’m listing below are NOT magic potions but they do work in a way that feels natural and right.

I’ve been using natural skincare since 2018 and EVERYBODY notices how young I look (I am not an ant-ageing promoter. It is all about HEALTHY skin. Ageing is part of life and we should all embrace it lovingly).

Disclaimer: you will find affiliate links below. If you purchase through them I might earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Is this for you?

This is for you if you’ve had enough of trying creams that cost too much and deliver too little. If your skin is feeling a bit tired, a bit drier than usual, and you’re starting to notice those fine lines… well, I hear you.

Perhaps, like me, you want something natural. Something simple. Something that doesn’t feel like a chemistry experiment every time you apply it. I get it.

And if you’re overwhelmed by the world of oils (there are so many, i’ve had over 40 at one time), don’t worry, I’m going to walk you through the ones that are actually worth it.

How oils help with wrinkles (explained as best as I can)

Facial oils won’t erase wrinkles. Let’s be real.

But they can help your skin look smoother, more rested, and more comfortable.

My skin looks FANTASTIC and I know it is because of the simple, powerful ingredients I use.

Here’s how the oils for wrinkles help:

• Moisture locking: Oils seal in hydration and keep your skin from drying out.
• Antioxidant support: Many oils are rich in vitamins and protective compounds.
• Barrier care: They support the skin’s natural barrier, which tends to get thinner with age.

Let me explain this in simple words:

Imagine your skin is like a soft sponge. If you leave it out in the sun and wind, it dries up and gets stiff. But if you soak it in water and protect it, it stays bouncy and soft.

Oils help your skin hold onto that ‘soaked in’ feeling. They keep the water in, protect it from drying winds (and central heating!), and add lovely nutrients like vitamins to help it stay strong.

Think of it like wrapping your skin in a little comfort blanket—keeping it smooth, cosy and calm.

The oils I keep coming back to…

These are the ones I’ve personally used (and keep reaching for). Each one has a slightly different feel, but all of them support the skin in their own way.

You don’t need them all. Just one or two that your skin enjoys will do the job beautifully.

Let’s start with one of my all-time favourites…

1. Rosehip oil for brightening and evening out your skin tone

If I could only keep one oil for my face, this might be it. Rosehip oil has that gorgeous golden-orange colour, and it sinks into the skin without feeling greasy.

It’s packed with natural vitamin A (not the synthetic kind) and helps support your skin’s natural repair process. That means it might help with uneven skin tone, sun damage, and those little lines that sneak up on you.

What I love about it:

• It feels light but nourishing.
• It gives my skin a subtle glow.
• It actually does something—my skin feels smoother after a few weeks.

Great if your skin is feeling dull, tired, or just wants something gentle but effective.

I like using it at night, right after misting my face. Just 2–3 drops. That’s all it takes.

HERE’S MY RECOMMENDED ROSEHIP OIL.

Why it works: Rosehip oil is naturally high in trans-retinoic acid (a form of vitamin A), which helps support skin cell turnover. It’s also full of essential fatty acids like linoleic and linolenic acid that help strengthen the skin’s barrier. Plus, it has vitamin C, which plays a role in collagen production. All of this makes it one of the most researched oils for reducing signs of photoageing.

2. Pomegranate seed oil for improving elasticity and skin strength

This one feels a little richer and more luxurious—like a thicker blanket for your skin when it’s feeling extra fragile.

Pomegranate seed oil is the one I reach for when my skin needs more support. It’s deeply restorative and really shines when your skin feels thin, dry, or just “not itself.”

What I love about it:

• It’s rich but doesn’t clog my pores.
• Makes my skin feel a bit stronger and more protected.
• Calms things down when my skin is acting up.

Best used at night, especially if your skin is dry, flaky, or feeling sensitive.

HERE’S MY RECOMMENDED POMEGRANATE SEED OIL.

Why it works: Pomegranate seed oil contains punicic acid (omega-5), a rare fatty acid known for its anti-inflammatory and regenerative properties. It’s also packed with antioxidants like vitamin E and polyphenols, which help protect collagen and improve skin elasticity. This oil has been shown to support skin repair and reduce oxidative stress—great news for mature or environmentally stressed skin.

3. Sea buckthorn oil for glow and soothing sensitive skin

This one’s bright orange… don’t be scared! It’s full of carotenoids, which are great for the skin (and yes, the colour fades once you massage it in).

I use this when my skin looks tired, dull or feels a bit irritated. It’s one of those oils that brings your skin back to life without being too heavy.

What I love about it:

• It helps smooth out rough patches.
• Gives me an instant healthy glow.
• Feels comforting when my skin is having a rough day.

I usually mix 1 drop of this into another oil or moisturiser because it’s super concentrated.

HERE’S MY RECOMMENDED SEA BUCKTHORN OIL.

Sea buckthorn oil is rich in rare omega-7 fatty acids (palmitoleic acid), which help support skin regeneration. It’s also high in beta-carotene, tocopherols, and plant sterols—making it ideal for calming inflammation and protecting against environmental stress. It’s especially helpful for dry, sensitive or ageing skin that needs a little boost.

4. Camellia oil for softening and smoothing without feeling greasy

Camellia oil is silky, light, and absorbs like a dream. If you’re not into the feel of heavy oils, this one is a lovely option.

I use it during the day when I want something that sits well under makeup or just feels clean on the skin. It’s been used in Japan for centuries—especially by women caring for their skin and hair.

What I love about it:

• It feels like nothing but still moisturises really well.
• It helps soften those dry little patches around my nose and cheeks.
• My skin just feels smooth and content after using it.

Camellia oil is rich in oleic acid (omega-9), which helps restore moisture and elasticity. It also contains squalene, a natural component of our skin’s sebum, making it extra compatible with the skin. Its antioxidant content (vitamin E and polyphenols) helps protect and soothe without clogging pores, ideal for daily use on dry or sensitive skin.

5. Marula oil for keeping your skin plump and juicy

If your skin feels thirsty, marula oil might be the one. It’s like a tall glass of water for dry or dehydrated skin.

I love using this oil in winter or whenever I feel like my face is starting to look a bit deflated (you know that look tired, dull, and just not happy).

What I love about it:

• It’s rich but still feels smooth and non-greasy.
• It gives a ‘plumped’ look to the skin.
• My face feels soft and cushioned, especially in colder weather.

HERE’S MY RECOMMENDED MARULA OIL.

Marula oil is full of oleic acid and antioxidants like vitamin C and E, which help fight free radicals and keep moisture locked in. It also contains amino acids, which support skin hydration and resilience. It’s especially good for preventing water loss and smoothing the appearance of fine lines caused by dryness.

Bonus oils worth trying

If none of the above feel quite right, or if you’re curious to try more, here are a few extras I’ve loved over the years:

• Argan oil: A classic. It’s rich in vitamin E and sinks in beautifully. Works for most skin types. MY RECOMMENDED ARGAN OIL HERE.
• Jojoba oil: Technically a wax, not an oil, but behaves like our skin’s own sebum. A great choice for sensitive or breakout-prone skin. MY RECOMMENDED JOJOBA OIL HERE.
• Tamanu oil: Thick and earthy-smelling but amazing for skin repair. I don’t use it daily, but it has its place. MY RECOMMENDED TAMANU OIL HERE.
• Moringa oil: Feels elegant and protective. Lovely for daytime, especially in polluted areas. MY RECOMMENDED MORINGA OIL HERE.
• Prickly pear seed oil: Expensive but gorgeous. Especially nice around the eyes or when your skin needs extra care. MY RECOMMENDED PRICKLY PEAR SEED OIL HERE.

You don’t need to collect them all (unless you’re like me and can’t help it 😅). But it’s good to know what’s out there if you want to experiment.

What to expect when using oils

Let’s keep it real—oils are not quick fixes. But if you use them right, they can make a difference.

Here’s what you can expect:

• Your skin will start to feel more comfortable and less dry.
• You might notice a healthier glow after a couple of weeks.
• Fine lines may look softer and your skin might feel smoother over time.

How to use them:

• Just 2–3 drops is enough—don’t slather it on.
• Apply to slightly damp skin (this helps lock in hydration).
• Use once or twice a day, depending on how your skin feels.
• Always patch test first, especially if your skin is sensitive.

I usually use mine at night. That’s when your skin does most of its repair work, and oils can really shine without any interference from makeup or sun.

Give it time. These aren’t overnight miracles, but with consistent use, your skin will thank you.

My simple routine for softening fine lines

If you’re wondering how to fit oils into your routine without overthinking it, here’s what I do:

1. Cleanse gently – I use a soft cleanser that doesn’t strip my skin.
2. Mist or pat in some hydrosol – Just to keep my skin damp before the oil.
3. Apply 2–3 drops of oil – Rub it between my palms and press it onto my face. That’s it.
4. Optional: Add moisturiser – If my skin needs extra, I’ll seal it in with a moisturiser or balm.

No fancy steps. No stress. Just a couple of minutes, and it feels like a little ritual I actually look forward to.

Final tips 🌿

• Use your oil at night—this is when your skin does its best repair work.
• Store your oils in a cool, dark place (sunlight = not good!!).
• Choose unrefined, cold-pressed oils whenever possible as they’re more potent.
• If your skin ever feels overloaded, go back to basics. Less is usually more.

Most importantly, be kind to your skin. Be kind to you.

There’s nothing wrong with fine lines.

But if you want to nourish them with a little plant-based love, like I do, oils are such a lovely way to do it.

Patri xx