21 Anti-Aging Essential Oils & Carrier Oils

Aging is a natural part of life, which is why it’s important to support your skin’s vitality along the way. With more people turning to holistic skin care, anti-aging essential oils have become popular and effective natural remedies.

Packed with antioxidants, vitamins and rejuvenating compounds, these oils can help reduce the appearance of fine lines, improve skin elasticity and promote a radiant complexion.

So, let’s explore the best anti-aging essential oils and carrier oils for anti-aging, how to use them, and important precautions to ensure safe application.

Anti-aging essential oils and carrier oils

These are some of the leading anti-aging essential oils for forehead wrinkles, eye wrinkles, mouth wrinkles and all of those other signs of aging that you may be trying to reduce or avoid.

1. Jojoba oil

You may not have heard of jojoba oil before, but it is probably one of the most hydrating carrier oils for essential oils in the entire world, doing so in a surprisingly non-oily fashion. That’s because it closely mimics the skin’s natural sebum, deeply moisturizing without clogging pores.

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Jojoba oil contains many beneficial ingredients, including vitamin E, vitamin B complex, silicon, chromium, copper and zinc.

Is jojoba the best oil to reduce wrinkles? It definitely makes this list for good reason.

Jojoba oil is known to have anti-inflammatory effects that make it an ideal choice for discouraging skin aging (think wrinkles and fine lines). It’s also excellent for skin infections and wound healing.

Our sebaceous glands are microscopic glands in our skin that secrete an oily or waxy matter called sebum. As we age, our sebaceous glands produce less sebum, which is why we often see an increase of dry skin and hair the older we get. It can even lead to dandruff or itchy scalp.

The texture of human sebum is very similar to jojoba oil, which is why it can be so incredibly effective at improving dryness as well as overall skin health and appearance.

A main jojoba oil benefit is that it can play the role of sebum and moisturize skin and hair when the body stops doing it naturally. On the other hand, too much sebum, which happens when hormone levels are high, can result in oily skin and acne.

Jojoba oil is also great at removing sticky buildup or excess oil, too, so it keeps your oil levels balanced. That makes it a helpful natural treatment for eczema as well as a home remedy for acne, and it’s well suited for other dry-skin conditions and can help soothe sunburns, too.

As an emollient, jojoba oil moisturizes skin and helps prevent irritations like scaly and rough patches. Dry skin is caused by a loss of water in the upper layer of the skin. Jojoba oil works by forming a protective oily layer on the top of the skin that can help keep in moisture.

It works on your face, neck, hands, feet and hair. You can use it anywhere on your body because it’s completely natural, and as long as you buy pure jojoba oil, it contains no questionable chemicals or additives that can irritate skin.

Jojoba oil is noncomedogenic, meaning it doesn’t clog pores. It is also rich in iodine, which helps fight harmful bacteria growth that can lead to breakouts. The antioxidants present in jojoba oil also help discourage fine lines and naturally slow down other signs of aging.

A 2012 study conducted in Germany examined jojoba oil’s ability to reduce skin lesions and improve overall skin condition for 194 participants, who applied clay masks with jojoba oil to their faces two to three times per week. In total, 54 percent of the participants reported that acne skin lesions were reduced significantly after six weeks of using jojoba oil.

2. Pomegranate seed oil

Pomegranate seed oil is another great carrier oil for anti-aging essential oils. You will notice that pomegranate oil has a dark red color, which is due to the presence of beneficial bioflavonoids.

Pomegranate oil’s bioflavonoids and fatty acids make it excellent at protecting the skin from sun damage. In fact, in vitro research has even demonstrated that pomegranate oil has a natural SPF of eight, making it a great natural sunscreen ingredient.

Another  observational study involved 60 women aged 25-66 with skin issues, such as nail inflammation and skin tags. Participants were divided into three groups: One received no treatment, another applied pomegranate seed oil (PSO) topically and the third used a standard antifungal cream.

Over a 21-day period, the group treated with PSO showed significant improvements in skin inflammation markers, including reductions in enzymes like collagenase and elastase, which are associated with skin aging. These findings suggest that PSO may have beneficial effects on skin health and aging.

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3. Frankincense oil

Known for its skin-regenerating properties, frankincense oil can help reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, improve skin tone, and promote cellular health.

What is frankincense oil good for? For starters, it’s often used to reduce the appearance of sunspots and age spots.

If you have uneven color on your skin, some whiteness in some areas, any spottiness or splotchiness, frankincense oil is an ingredient that can help even out skin tone and help get rid of sunspots and age spots.

Frankincense essential oil is a powerful astringent that can be used to help reduce acne blemishes, the appearance of large pores and wrinkles. It is also one of the best anti-aging essential oils for skin tightening.

The oil can be used anywhere where the skin becomes saggy, such as the abdomen, jowls or under the eyes. Mix six drops of oil to one ounce of an unscented oil like jojoba oil, and apply it directly to the skin.

Frankincense has the ability to strengthen skin and improve its tone, elasticity, defense mechanisms against bacteria, or blemishes and appearance as someone ages. Studies have shown that it has anti-inflammatory properties and can help get rid of stretch marks and scars.

4. Lavender oil

With its calming scent and powerful antioxidants, lavender oil soothes irritated skin and helps reduce signs of aging caused by oxidative stress.

Looking for more anti-aging essential oils for wrinkles around the mouth or anywhere else on the body? Lavender essential oil helps treat skin conditions, burns and cuts, and it’s also great for fighting signs of aging.

With its known antimicrobial and antioxidant characteristics, lavender essential mixed with benefit-rich aloe vera or coconut oil can have profound positive effects on the skin. Combining 10 drops of lavender oil with one ounce of aloe vera or coconut oil can help soothe the worst sunburn and bring rapid healing to dry skin, minor cuts and scraps.

Want to reduce age spots? Try mixing lavender oil with frankincense essential oil, and put it on those spots right before bed.

5. Rosehip oil

Rich in retinoic acid (a natural form of vitamin A), rosehip oil promotes cell turnover and fades dark spots. This makes it one of the best oils for wrinkles and age spots.

Made from the seeds of rose hips, rosehip oil is an incredibly concentrated form of anti-aging goodness.

Why is this rose-derived oil so excellent for skin health? It’s packed with so many of the nutrients known to boost skin health and have anti-aging effects.

Rosehip oil, also called rosehip seed oil, is a rich source of essential fatty acids (EFAs) including oleic, palmitic, linoleic and gamma linolenic acid. These EFAs are awesome at fighting dryness and reducing the appearance of fine lines.

Rose hips are also one of the richest plant sources of vitamin C. This is a huge plus for anti-aging efforts since vitamin C aids collagen production, which unfortunately but naturally slows down as we age.

Adding products with vitamin C, like rosehip oil, to your beauty routine can directly help boost collagen and fend off signs of aging.

6. Rose oil

Rose essential oil is rich in antioxidants and vitamins A and C, which help stimulate collagen production and reduce skin inflammation.

A study titled “Effect of ‘rose essential oil’ inhalation on stress-induced skin-barrier disruption in rats and humans” investigated the impact of rose essential oil on stress-induced skin barrier disruption. The study found that inhalation of rose essential oil significantly inhibited the elevation of transepidermal water loss in both rats and humans under chronic stress, suggesting a protective effect on the skin barrier.

Additionally, in humans, rose essential oil inhalation significantly reduced the increase in salivary cortisol levels induced by stress. These findings suggest that rose essential oil may help mitigate stress-induced skin aging by preserving skin barrier function and reducing stress hormone levels.

7. Sandalwood oil

Sandalwood essential oil is deeply hydrating and helps improve skin elasticity and tone, making it ideal for mature or dry skin types.

A study published in 2021 analyzed the effects of Indian sandalwood oil (Santalum album) on skin aging. While the study primarily utilized in vitro and ex vivo models, its findings are relevant to human skin health.

The researchers found that Indian sandalwood oil significantly reduced reactive oxygen species production in skin cells exposed to environmental stressors like blue light and cigarette smoke. Additionally, the oil decreased levels of matrix metalloproteinase-1, an enzyme associated with collagen degradation and wrinkle formation.

These results suggest that Indian sandalwood oil may offer protective benefits against environmental factors that contribute to skin aging.

8. Geranium oil

Geranium essential oil balances sebum production, tightens the skin and supports new cell growth, helping delay the visible signs of aging.

A 2021 study examined the anti-aging effects of geranium essential oil (GEO) in humans. In this study, researchers developed cream formulations containing GEO encapsulated in ethanolic lipid vesicles to enhance skin penetration and stability.

The formulations were evaluated for their antioxidant capacity, sun protection factor (SPF), and ability to inhibit collagenase and elastase enzymes, which are associated with skin aging. The results demonstrated that GEO-loaded vesicular creams exhibited notable antioxidant activity, higher SPF values, and significant inhibition of collagenase and elastase compared to non-vesicular creams.

These findings suggest that topical application of GEO in ELV formulations may offer protective benefits against skin aging.

9. Helichrysum oil

Often called “immortelle” or “everlasting,” helichrysum essential oil is prized for its powerful healing and anti-inflammatory properties, helping reduce age spots and blemishes.

A human clinical study published in 2020 looked at the effects of a night cream containing Helichrysum italicum extract on skin aging. In this study, 117 participants applied the cream nightly, resulting in significant improvements in skin parameters, such as reduced wrinkle depth, enhanced skin elasticity and decreased signs of photodamage.

These findings suggest that Helichrysum italicum extract may offer beneficial effects in mitigating signs of skin aging.

10. Argan oil

High in vitamin E and fatty acids, argan oil helps improve skin elasticity and hydration.

A human clinical study published in Clinical Interventions in Aging evaluated the anti-aging benefits of argan oil.

In this randomized, controlled trial, 60 postmenopausal women were divided into two groups: One group consumed dietary argan oil, while the other consumed olive oil as a control. Both groups applied cosmetic argan oil to their left forearms daily over a 60-day period.

Skin elasticity parameters were measured at baseline, 30 days and 60 days. The study found that both the consumption and topical application of argan oil led to significant improvements in all measured skin elasticity parameters compared to the control group.

These findings suggest that argan oil may have beneficial effects on skin elasticity in postmenopausal women.

11. Sweet almond oil

Almond oil contains vitamins A, E and zinc, supporting skin tone and softness.

Research published in 2023 assessed the impact of pure almond oil on skin healing and scarring. While the study did not find significant differences between almond oil and the tested regeneration oil in objective measures, both oils were associated with improvements in patients’ subjective assessments of scar quality and itchiness over time.

These findings suggest that almond oil may have beneficial effects on skin recovery and comfort, which are relevant to anti-aging considerations.

12. Avocado oil

Packed with nutrients and deeply nourishing, avocado oil is ideal for dry or sensitive skin.

A human clinical study investigated the anti-aging effects of a topical cream formulated with avocado oil and saffron extract. In this study, 20 healthy volunteers applied the cream daily for 12 weeks.

The results demonstrated significant improvements in skin elasticity and a reduction in the depth and volume of nasolabial folds. These findings suggest that avocado oil, as a component of the cream, may contribute to facial skin rejuvenation and exhibit anti-aging benefits.

13. Carrot seed oil

Rich in beta-carotene and antioxidants, carrot seed oil helps rejuvenate the skin, improve elasticity and protect against environmental stressors.

A 2019 study evaluated the anti-aging potential of cosmetic emulsions containing carrot seed oil. Participants applied formulations with varying concentrations of carrot seed oil (2%, 4% and 6% w/v) over a 12-week period.

The researchers found that “these cosmetic emulsions have sufficient potential to be used as potential skin rejuvenating preparations.”

14. Citrus oils

High in vitamin C, citrus essential oils like lemon oil and orange oil brighten the skin, reduce dark spots and stimulate collagen production. Use with caution due to their photosensitive nature.

Researchers sought to evaluate the antioxidant properties of a natural compound isolated from lemon oil, referred to as Lem1, and its effect on oxidative damage to the skin in a 1999 study. The study employed a novel gas chromatographic method to assess the antioxidant activity of Lem1.

Both in vitro and in vivo evaluations were conducted, including topical application of Lem1 in healthy human volunteers.

The research demonstrated that Lem1 possesses strong antioxidant activity, effectively inhibiting free radical-mediated reactions. Topical application in healthy volunteers significantly increased the antioxidative potential of the skin’s biosurface.

The study authors concluded that Lem1, derived from lemon oil, is effective in enhancing the skin’s antioxidant defenses, thereby highlighting its potential in the anti-aging management of skin.

Another notable human clinical study demonstrated the anti-aging benefits of red orange (Citrus sinensis) extract on skin health. In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, participants who consumed a standardized red orange extract daily for 56 days experienced significant improvements in various skin parameters.

These included increased skin moisturization and elasticity, enhanced radiance, reduced transepidermal water loss and a decrease in wrinkle depth. The study attributed these benefits to the antioxidant properties of the extract, which helped mitigate oxidative stress and support collagen synthesis, thereby contributing to healthier, more youthful-looking skin.

While this study focused on red orange extract, it’s important to note that orange essential oil, commonly derived from the peel of Citrus sinensis, contains bioactive compounds like limonene that possess antioxidant properties.

15. Clary sage oil

Known for its hormone-balancing effects, clary sage oil can help regulate oil production and reduce inflammation, making it great for mature or aging skin. In fact, research has revealed this oil may help with wrinkles, cellulite, sebum and oil production, while potentially toning, tightening and strengthening skin.

16. Neroli oil

Extracted from orange blossoms, neroli essential oil helps improve skin elasticity, reduce the appearance of scars and promote cell regeneration. Thanks to its vitamin C and antioxidant content, it may help regenerate skin cells, reduce wrinkles, tighten skin, fight UV damage from the sun, and protect the skin from irritants and pollutants.

17. Rosemary oil

Rosemary essential oil improves circulation, promotes skin firmness and has antioxidant properties that protect the skin from premature aging. A notable human clinical study studied the anti-aging effects of a combination of rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) and grapefruit (Citrus paradisi) polyphenols.

In this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, participants received daily oral supplementation of either 100 milligrams or 250 milligrams of the combined extracts over a two-month period.

Participants exhibited a decrease in wrinkle depth by up to 14.8 percent in the 100-milligram group and 13.9% in the 250-milligram group after two months of treatment, and both dosage groups showed improvements in skin elasticity compared to baseline measurements.

18. Ylang ylang oil

This floral oil helps balance sebum production, smooth fine lines and improve skin texture for a more youthful appearance.

A comprehensive study published in 2024 shared that ylang ylang oil has antioxidant, antibacterial, antimicrobial and hemolytic properties. This oil can help combat free radicals, inhibit bacteria, and potentially help prevent and/or treat acne, eczema and psoriasis.

19. Apricot oil

Lightweight and rich in vitamins A and E, apricot oil moisturizes dry, aging skin without clogging pores. Apricot kernel oil is composed predominantly of unsaturated fatty acids, including oleic acid and linoleic acid. These fatty acids are known for their moisturizing properties and ability to maintain skin barrier function, which is essential for healthy, youthful-looking skin.

The oil has been reported to be beneficial for all skin types, including aged and dry or irritated skin, as it does not leave an oily residue, making it suitable for cosmetic applications.

20. Grapeseed oil

A lightweight oil rich in linoleic acid and antioxidants, grapeseed oil tightens skin and reduces the appearance of fine lines.

A clinical study demonstrated the anti-aging benefits of grapeseed oil when formulated into an advanced topical treatment. In this study, researchers developed an ionic liquid-based grape seed oil emulsion (GSO-ILE) and assessed its efficacy on facial skin aging over a 28-day period.

The results indicated significant improvements in skin hydration, elasticity and firmness, along with a notable reduction in the number and depth of facial wrinkles, including under-eye lines, nasolabial folds and marionette lines. These effects are attributed to the enhanced transdermal penetration and antioxidant properties of the GSO-ILE formulation.

21. Vitamin E oil

A powerful antioxidant, vitamin E oil protects the skin from free radicals, supports healing and reduces signs of premature aging.

In a 2016 study published in Experimental and Therapeutic Medicine, researchers evaluated the effects of cosmetic formulations containing vitamin E, palmitoyl peptides and Silybum marianum seed oil on aged human skin. Twenty healthy volunteers with aged skin applied the test materials to their faces twice daily for four weeks.

The study reported significant improvements in various skin parameters:

• Crow’s feet wrinkles decreased by 5.97 percent after two weeks and 14.07 percent after four weeks of application.
• Skin elasticity increased by 6.81 percent after two weeks and 8.79 percent after four weeks.
• Dermal density improved by 16.74 percent after two weeks and 27.63 percent after four weeks.
• Skin brightness increased by 1.70 percent after two weeks and 2.14 percent after four weeks, while erythema (redness) decreased by 10.45 percent after two weeks and 22.39 percent after four weeks.

These findings suggest that vitamin E, as part of a topical formulation, can contribute to the reduction of wrinkles, enhancement of skin elasticity and density, and improvement in overall skin tone.

How to use

You can use anti-aging essential oils and carrier oils topically or by inhaling them, either directly from the bottle or using an aromatherapy diffuser. If they are food-grade, you can also ingest some anti-aging essential oils, though use caution.

Here more ways to use anti-aging essential oils and carrier oils:

Facial serums

Create a simple anti-aging serum by combining:

• 1 ounce carrier oil (e.g., jojoba or rosehip)
• 5 drops frankincense oil
• 3 drops lavender oil
• 2 drops rose oil

Mix in a dark glass dropper bottle, and apply a few drops to clean skin before bedtime. Other facial serums that utilize anti-aging essential oils include:

• Homemade Anti-Aging Serum
• DIY Retinol Facial Serum
• DIY Vitamin C Serum for the Face

Moisturizer boost

Add 1-2 drops of essential oil to your daily moisturizer or night cream to enhance its anti-aging properties. Here are more DIY moisturizers that use anti-aging essential oils:

• DIY Face Moisturizer with Shea Butter & Essential Oils
• DIY Moisturizer for Dry Skin with Lavender Oil
• DIY Moisturizer for Oily Skin with All-Natural Ingredients

Face massage

Use a diluted essential oil blend to perform a gentle facial massage. This improves circulation, lymphatic drainage and helps the oils absorb better into the skin.

DIY face mask

Combine 1 tablespoon of yogurt, 1 teaspoon of honey and 2 drops of geranium oil for a nourishing anti-aging mask. Apply for 15-20 minutes, and then rinse with warm water.

Here are other homemade face masks that include anti-aging essential oils:

• DIY Turmeric Face Mask for Glowing Skin
• DIY Charcoal Mask with Rosehip and Tea Tree Oils
• DIY Blackhead Removal Mask with Turmeric, Peppermint & Frankincense
• Acne Scar Removal Face Mask

There are plenty of other ways to use anti-aging essential oils and carrier oils as well. Here are other anti-aging essential oils DIY recipes to give a try:

• DIY Face Scrub with Coffee
• Homemade Sugar Scrub for the Face (and Body)
• DIY Stretch Mark Cream
• Eczema Cream
• Homemade Whipped Body Butter
• Homemade Lotion with Frankincense, Lavender & Peppermint Oils
• Anti-Wrinkle Cream with Ginseng and Rosehip Seed Oil
• Homemade Eye Cream with 4 Healing Ingredients
• DIY Lip Balm with 5 Healing Ingredients

Precautions

While anti-aging essential oils offer powerful skin benefits, it’s crucial to use them properly to avoid adverse reactions:

• Always dilute essential oils with a carrier oil before applying to the skin.
• Do a patch test before using a new oil to check for allergic reactions or sensitivity.
• Avoid sun exposure after applying citrus-based oils (like lemon), as they can cause photosensitivity.
• Consult a dermatologist if you have a skin condition like eczema or rosacea before using essential oils.
• Pregnant or breastfeeding? Check with your healthcare provider before using essential oils.

Conclusion

• Incorporating anti-aging essential oils into your skin care routine is a natural and effective way to support youthful, radiant skin.
• From reducing fine lines to improving hydration and tone, these botanical powerhouses offer a wide range of age-defying benefits.
• Before using anti-aging essential oils, be sure to perform a small patch test to make sure you don’t have any sensitivities or allergic reactions to the oils.
• Always buy oils that are 100 percent pure, therapeutic grade and organic to guarantee you are getting the highest quality products that are likely to yield the best results.
• When paired with the right carrier oils and used safely, anti-aging essential oils can be valuable additions to any anti-aging regimen.
• Start small, be consistent and let nature work its magic.