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When it comes to the skin, oil breeds more oil, right?! At least that’s what I was taught for years. And because of this teaching, which I initially learned about in some teenage beauty magazine, I spent my teenage and early adulthood years purchasing facial products to rid my skin of the dreaded o word: oil. To be honest, the expensive products I used almost seemed to create more oil on my face, which resulted in acne flare-ups, frustration, and scars. It was a vicious cycle.
A few years after changing our eating habits, I began to question the products my family used (read my full story). The first product that came into question was my makeup. Why I went with makeup I don’t know, but for some reason makeup was my first priority when it came to sourcing better products. I made the switch to homemade foundation powder, and I couldn’t believe just how easy it was to make something for my body at home, in my own kitchen.
Soon, I moved on to laundry products (I know, it was a crazy random progression with no rhyme or reason) and started making laundry soap, or sourcing more natural laundry soap from the store (during the busy seasons of life). The discovery that homemade (or more natural store-bought products) actually worked was astonishing to this former Tide-Lovin, Clinique-wearing gal. I think that’s the danger of our present processed-everything society: we’ve ventured away from even knowing how to care for ourselves. Just knowing we can make something (like bread, foundation powder, or soap) is incredibly empowering, and allows us to be more informed consumers when we purchase store-bought products.
Back to skincare and the dreaded o word: oil…
As I began to research and make products for my home and body, I discovered something fascinating about skincare and oils. Many of our ancestors used oil to moisturize their skin. As it turns out, oil isn’t such a bad word. In fact, the right oil (or oils) can be pretty amazing when it comes to nourishing the skin! Even major news sources and celebrities have started sharing the long-standing practice of using oil as a moisturizer. According to an article via The Huffington Post, Hillary Preston shares, “When oils are applied to the skin, they are absorbed directly into the top layers of the epidermis, where they instantly go to work to improve the lipid barrier function.”
A few months ago, I decided to make the switch from using my homemade lotion (I still use it on my body–I was just exploring other moisturizing options for my face) to a simple three ingredient moisturizing oil combo. I’ll admit, the idea of applying 100% oil to my face was slightly terrifying. Plus, I live in an extremely hot and humid state: Florida! I had visions of frying eggs on my face…seriously! But, I took the chance and started using an oil moisturizer. After just a couple of days, I was hooked! The oils easily absorbed into my skin, and my skin felt moisturized and looked great. I mentioned in my fall skincare routine post that I was using an oil moisturizer, and many of you asked about my recipe, so let’s take a look at what I’m using…
Argan Oil: Argan oil is extracted from the fruit of the argan tree in Morocco. Argan oil is rich in fatty acids, vitamin E and A, and antioxidants. These “secret weapons” make the oil a moisturizing skincare option. Here’s an excellent article from the Alternative Medicine Review about argan oil. Alternatives to argan oil, include: jojoba, grapeseed, apricot, and sweet almond oil.
Rosehip Oil: Rosehip oil is extracted from the South African rosebush seeds. I added this oil to the argan to help reduce my scars and blotchy skin (from sun damage and my second pregnancy). Rosehip oil is rich in fatty acids, linoleic acid, and Vitamin C and A. Rosehip oil is also very light, so it won’t leave behind a thick, greasy layer when applied to the skin. This article from the Huffington Post provides insight into the benefits of this ancient oil. For some people roseship oil can cause breakouts (especially if you’re already dealing with acne), so it’s important to know your skin before using this oil choice. I’ve also used tamanu oil as a replacement for the rosehip oil with good success. You can learn more about other oil options, here.
Essential Oils: In addition to the two moisturizing oils, I add a few drops of essential oil. At the moment, I’m using frankincense essential oil in my oil moisturizer. According to Plant Therapy, “Frankincense (Carteri) has the ability to rejuvenate the look of mature skin and can be used in serums or creams for the face.” I’ve listed a few other essential oils in the recipe (below) that I’ve played around with over the past few months.
Easy Argan and Rosehip Oil Moisturizer
Ingredients
- 1 TB argan oil see other options in the “notes” below.
- 2 tsp rosehip oil see other options in the “notes” below.
- 10 drops skin-nourishing oil such as: frankincense, lavender, bergamot, or carrot seed.
Instructions
- Mix all the ingredients together in a small storage jar (a bottle with a dropper works well for application).
- Shake the bottle to combine the ingredients.
To Use:
- Apply a small amount of oil to your hand, then massage all over the face and neck. Use this moisturizer after cleansing (my favorite natural cleansers)and toning the skin.
Hi Kristin,
Thanks so much for all your efforts on natural body care products. I actually decide to use almond oil and lemon essential oil. And I noticed it’s coming out nice on my skin. I haven’t used it on my face yet as I am currently have some face rash and breakouts. Please is there any natural product I can use to stop this rash.
Hi Bennie, thank you, so glad you’re loving the natural products. Since a rash and breakouts can be caused by many things, I can’t say what will help. Personally I love Shea butter on my skin as it’s very thick and moisturizing.
LS Team.
I was wondering about adding some aloe to this recipe just to lighten it a bit. I think 100% oil does freak me out a little. Any thoughts on that?
I think you could, An. The ingredients won’t mix so you’ll need to shake the jar each time.
Have you ever tried grape seed oil? I do love it and it tightens my skin, and I don’t have darks circles anymore. I take my makeup off with it. . Also, special olive oils also actually are very nice. I have used straight rosehip, and it dries my skin out. I think I need to combine all of my favorites somehow.
Hey Valerie, Yes, you could definitely use either option.
Hi Kristin,
I just recently started using your Vitamin C and Vitamin E serum in the night. Lately I have gotten a lot of pigmentation marks on my face and some dark spots too. I was wondering if this moisturizer will work for me. I did some research and found that Lemon essential oil helps with pigmentation and skin lightening. Can I replace any of the oil in this recipe with the lemon or this recipe itself will help too.
Why did you select argan oil as the base oil versus rosehip seed oil?
Hey Chris, I’ve found that argan works best as a base oil.
I have bought a bottle of argan and rosehip oil roller to use from some retail store. And the result was pretty good. Now i am planning to make my own and i found your recipe. I wonder, for the essential oil …is it Rose is good for hydrating skin as well?
Have you tried the Camellia Oil (Tsubaki Oil). I am thinking of mixing the Argan Oil + Rosehip Oil + Camellia Oil but I am scared. I am using Argan Oil and it prevents my breakouts I am so happy with the results but I still have my Acne marks that’s why I would like to add the Rosehip and Camellia Oil but I really want to be sure about this 3 combination?
Hmmm, I haven’t tried camellia oil, but it’s worth a try. You may have to play around with the ratios. You’d basically be creating your own custom serum/moisturizer. Another suggestion is adding an essential oil that works to reduce scars. My favorite is the Skin Restore from Plant Therapy: http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/7311452/type/dlg/https://www.planttherapy.com/anti-scarstretch-synergy.
Thank you 🙂
I’ve been reading about the benefits of Argan oil and Rosehip seed oil, so I just tried this out! I also made your Honey Aloe facewash! I’ve always been a big believer in putting more natural things on my face, and sometimes it’s hard to find just looking for from different brands, so I love being able to customize according to my skin!
That’s so great, Savannah Ivy!
Hi! I’ve been switching my skincare and the oil moisturizer feels great but within a few hours, my skin feels tight again. Do you have any suggestions of an ingredient to add to help with barrier repair or to help seal in the moisture? Thank you!
Hey Mary, I think shea butter should definitely help with that. You could try it on its own before adding any oil to it, just to make sure it provides the barrier moisture needed.
Thank you! I made a moisrizer with equal parts shea butter, mango butter, coconut oil, and jojoba oil and whipped it for a creamy texture. Is it possible to remelt it and add beeswax?
That sounds lovely, Mary! Yes, you definitely could. The beeswax will make it solidify.
Hi Kristin,
I’m super excited to start a homemade face regiment. I am going to try your oily skin options. Since I am oily/combo all year (boo),but I am curious where to get the small glass containers and a glass dropper with bottle. Since I would prefer to use essential oils. Thanks ,
Candie
Hey Candice, I’ve picked them all up on Amazon. They carry a huge selection. If you search “amber glass storage jars” on Amazon, you’ll find a bunch of great selections, along with the dropper bottles.
Hey Kristin,
Super excited to try this recipe! I am thinking of switching my store-bought moisturizer for homemade. I’ve always used Avalon Organics Vitamin C moisturizer which has SPF in it. I was wondering, with using oil as a moisturizer, what would you recommend for a sunscreen? And would you apply the sunscreen before or after the oils?
Thanks!!
Marla
Hey Marla, I use my oil moisturizer, let it sink into my skin, and then use a sunscreen during the day. Right now, I’m using BeautyCounter’s sunscreen: http://www.beautycounter.com/protect-broad-spectrum-spf-30-all-over-sunscreen.html. Then, if I’m going out, I’ll apply my makeup. Hope that helps!
Hi there,pls can I add rosehip & almond to my body lotion? already using rosehip on my scar but it doesnt absorb into my skin even though is dry oil?
Hey Adwoa, I’m not sure what the lotion recipe calls for (is it the one on the blog?), but it’s worth a try. The lotion may be a bit more greasy with the rosehip oil.
Hi! Just discovered your blog and really like it! Wondering… how can I test rosehip oil on my face? Just put it on direct and see if I break out? I’ve never used it and want to make sure it works for me before adding to my argan oil.
Hey Kathy, I’m so glad you’re enjoying the blog! Rosehip is best used when it’s diluted, so I would mix with another oil, and just apply a small amount in one area. You could try rosehip alone, just for the test, but I wonder if the high concentration would cause you to breakout. Another option is to use almond oil in place of the argan, which is a very gentle oil that does well with just about any skin type.
Hi Kristin, I know you also have a Vit-C Serum, do you still use that? If so is there a way of using both products or switching them up (every other day for example, or morning and night)? Cant wait to try out this recipe 🙂
Hey Axelle, I do! I took a break for a couple of months due to travel (it’s hard to travel with the Vit. C Serum). I usually apply the Vit. C serum on my face first, and then used follow-up with a moisturizer.
Hi Kristin!
Your idea about mixed those two oils is amazing.. I love rosehip oil, and I kind of interesting to try argan oil also.
And since my face is good to using the rosehip oil, I’m thinking to exchange the amount,si I will use 1tb rosehip oil and 2tsp argan oil, and probably mixed 10 drops lavender and rose essential oil together. Thank you
Hi Kristin! I LOVE every recipe that I’ve tried (& that is a lot)! I was wondering if you’ve ever added raspberry oil to your moisturizer to add a little SPF?
Hey Maureen, I’m so glad you’ve been enjoying all the recipes!! I haven’t tried adding raspberry oil to my moisturizer, but that’s a great idea! I’m not sure how much would be needed to create a decent SPF.
Hi Kristin! Thanks so much for all your helpful tips and recipes. Your blog is one of the best ones I’ve found! I have a few questions about this recipe. I made it earlier this week but found that my skin actually feels a little drier than usual. Is this normal? Also, when I used the rosehip oil, my skin looks a little orange. I used jojoba oil instead of argan– any insight? Thanks!
Hey Heather, Maybe that’s why my face seems to have such a nice tan these days ;)…just kidding. Hmmm, I’m not sure about the orange tint.
From my experience, I haven’t noticed the rosehip oil changing the color of my skin. The dryness is probably due to the fact that you may need a different oil combo for your skin, or maybe just different ratios. Jojoba oil is usually decent for dry skin, so maybe reduce the rosehip oil amount (or increase the joboba amount in your current bottle to dilute the rosehip more). I had to experiment with a few different oils and ratios before I found what felt good and worked best on my skin.
PS: I’m so glad you’re enjoying the blog :). Thank you so much for the sweet compliment.
I have very oily skin. So will rosehip oil make my skin darker ?
Hey Ariana, I’ve tried using oil on the rest of my body, but personally I haven’t enjoyed the experience. For now, I’m sticking with the oil on my face alone. I know some people love grapeseed oil as a body moisturizer, so that may be a good option if you’re looking for a full body oil moisturizer.
I do the dry brushing before my shower, then oil down with coconut oil AFTER the brushing but BEFORE I get in the shower. After my shower I put on my moisturizing lotion as usual. I am 57 years old and this has done a world of good for my skin! I also love the Argan, Rosehip, Lavender mixture for my face. I cleanse with coconut oil, then spray with Rosewater, then apply the Argan Oil mix.
That’s so great, Lisa!
Hi Ally, I’m very passionate about Argan Oil and Rosehip oil. So glad you love it too!!
Did a bit of research on the two oils and it’s benefits for the skin.
Did wonders for my skin. An excellent remedy for a healthy skin!
That’s awesome! Glad you enjoy them.
I have been using a half and half Argan and Rosehip oils solution to moisturize, I loved using plain Argan oil, but that much Rosehill oil has seemed to cause breakouts for me. I’m excited to try out your ratio and see if that works better for me.
I have heard Geranium Essential Oil is great for skin too, have you ever tried it? I was planning to buy some soon. Thanks.
Hey Bethany, I think the reduction of the rosehip oil should help. Another option is tamanu oil instead of the rosehip oil (I’ve played around with that oil, too). For some people, rosehip isn’t a good choice, so finding an oil that works for your skin is important. Geranium is excellent, from what I’ve read, for the skin! I haven’t tried it yet, but I know a few bloggers who use it for skincare.
It takes a lot to switch to using 100% oil on your face, right? When i went from lotion to considering an oil I was freaking out – “Won’t it make me break out?”, “Won’t my skin feel oily all day?”, but after switching you just never look back.
For example, I take my makeup (if I’m wearing any that day) off with jojoba oil on an organic cotton bad at night, leaving on the residue of jojoba that remains and then top up with pure rosehip oil or a kiwi seed oil from Antipodes. In the morning I splash with water and apply more jojoba for a deep moistuising effect all day. It’s done wonders for my skin and really locks in moisture!
I think that’s why this homemade argan and rosehip oil moisturiser really appeals to me. I’ve been enjoying more of a homemade life the past few years – home remedies, beauty and cleaning products – and can’t wait to make up this facial moisturising oil next 🙂
Hey Ally, Yea, it takes a lot of courage to switch to oil. It’s been such a dreaded skincare product (almost like butter in a healthy diet). I love your skincare routine–it sounds wonderful! Thank you for sharing. Enjoy the moisturizer!