Is a dry oil something that will work for your skin and needs?
What is a dry oil?
Dry oils are those that are also described as “light” or “not greasy.”
Folks who tend to prefer lightweight face creams and products tend to prefer dry oils over wet oils.
Some of the most popular dry oils are:
Benefits for skin, hair & nails.
Let’s break down the benefits:
Seals in moisture with a lightweight feel.
There’s not the same concern with dry oils as the absorption rate is so much faster.
By the time you go to put on your clothing, you’ll be ready to go.
This also means they’re a great option to spot treat throughout the day.
If you pick a dry oil for your hair, it also won’t weigh down your strands.
Full of antioxidants.
A few to call out:
Helps support a healthy skin barrier.
Best dry oils
Here, mindbodygreens beauty directorAlexandra Englerhighlights her favorite dry oils.
The squalane supports the skin barrier, while the organic essential oils provide an energizing, upbeat fragrance.
Costa Brazil Moonlight Body Oil
This brand uses several antioxidant-rich ingredients native to Brazil.
(Several are also certified organic and ECO-cert verified.)
The oil is also infused with a subtle shimmer to give a soft moonlit glow.
Dry oils vs. wet oils.
Meaning: Both dry and wet oils are, technically “wet.”
The difference is, wet oils are heavy on the skin and are slow to absorb.
They often linger on top of the skin, like massage oil.
That’s what makes them superb for inflammatory skin conditions.
Conventionally, these heavier oils have been the base of many water-based product formulations, like night creams.
How to use dry oils.
If youre interested in bringing more oils into your life, experiment with what works for you.
There is not one oil protocol thats effective for all skin types and goals.
Using dry oil on skin.
Using dry oil on hair.
Using dry oil on nails.
The takeaway.
If you’re just starting to dabble in face or body oils, consider dry oils your starter pack.
These moisturizing oils sink in quickly and feel quite weightlessso you won’t sport slick skin.
For more info on how to support your skin barrier,check out our guide.
