An oil is an occlusive rather than a hydrator. It does not add water to the skin, it slows the rate at which water leaves, which is why an oil applied to a dry face does far less than the same oil applied over damp skin.

At-home oils selected for the face restore the lipids a compromised barrier has lost and seal the steps beneath them. A short list rather than a long one, because the differences between them are real.

Our team of skincare experts selects every product on this page for restoring lipids and sealing hydration. Virtual consultations are available for anyone unsure whether their skin needs an oil at all.