Oils for Wrinkles? 20 Essential and Carrier Oils to Add to Your Routine

Make an effective anti-wrinkle serum using essential oils in just three simple stages. Begin with an antioxidant-rich oil, add a hydrating oil for moisture, then dilute the blend with a carrier oil. Below are 20 oils you can pick from.

When exploring wrinkle solutions, choices can feel overwhelming. Should you opt for a heavy cream or a light hydrator? What about a vitamin C concentrate or retinol?

If you prefer more natural alternatives, essential oils are an option. While they won’t eliminate wrinkles permanently (nothing really does), they may help reduce their appearance.

Although studies point to potential health perks, the FDA does not oversee the purity or quality of essential oils. Consult a healthcare professional before starting essential oil use and investigate the quality of any brand you choose. Always perform a patch test prior to applying a new essential oil.

Step 1: Pick an antioxidant base

Start your serum formulation by choosing an essential oil that serves as an antioxidant base.

Antioxidant-rich essential oils may help slow wrinkle development or soften existing lines by neutralizing free radicals that damage skin. These free radicals are present in:

• air pollution
• sunlight
• cigarette smoke

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.)

Rosemary is prized for its antimicrobial and antioxidant actions. For skin, its natural defense mechanisms may protect against damage caused by oxidative stress.

A 2022 study highlighted rosemary essential oil’s antioxidant properties, suggesting it could help slow skin aging.

More human clinical trials are needed, however, as this research was based on laboratory tests rather than trials with people.

Citrus

Citrus oils from lemons, oranges, and tangerines are rich in vitamin C, a common ingredient in skincare touted for promoting collagen synthesis.

A 2022 study found citrus essential oils display strong antioxidant activity, making them promising for softening lines and evening skin tone.

Be cautious about sun exposure after applying citrus oils or vitamin C products—these can increase photosensitivity and the risk of sunburn. Always use sunscreen if you’ve applied citrus oils.

Clary sage (Salvia sclarea L.)

Clary sage, related to common sage, is used differently and has its own medicinal uses.

A 2022 review of several essential oils noted that clary sage oil has antioxidant activity that may help to:

• improve the look of wrinkles and cellulite
• regulate sebum and oil levels
• tone, tighten, and strengthen skin

Carrot seed (Daucus carota L.)

Traditionally, carrot seeds have been used as a muscle relaxant and to address low blood sugar. In skincare, the extract may revitalize and nourish skin.

A 2024 review of oils for skin aging described carrot seed oil as rich in:

• antioxidants, particularly carotenoids
• vitamins
• minerals

Its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds may help shield skin cells from free-radical damage and slow signs of aging.

Carotenoids can also offer some protection against UV damage—a major driver of premature skin aging—and carrot seed oil may support collagen and elastin production, proteins tied to skin firmness that decline with age.

Step 2: Choose a moisturizing, rejuvenating essential oil

Next, select an essential oil that will lend moisturizing and restorative qualities to your serum.

For fine lines and wrinkles, hydration is among the most valuable benefits essential oils can provide.

Hydration helps skin hold water. As skin ages, its ability to retain moisture diminishes. Moisturizing oils may help restore that balance.

When skin is properly hydrated, its overall appearance can improve.

Maintaining moisture can also promote skin cell turnover, which may reduce the visible depth of wrinkles.

Rose (Rosa damascena)

A cited research review reports that rose essential oil has antioxidant, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory effects that may help avert premature skin aging.

As with other antioxidant oils, rose may protect skin cells from free radicals and sun harm—both contributors to aging skin.

East Indian sandalwood (Santalum album L.)

Sandalwood has a long history for its anti-inflammatory properties and traditional use in treating inflammatory skin conditions.

As an essential oil, sandalwood contains natural emollients that help lock moisture into the skin.

Its antioxidant profile may also reduce the look of wrinkles and age-related skin changes.

Geranium (Pelargonium graveolens)

Research into geranium essential oil includes both animal and human studies. Findings suggest it may be:

• antioxidant
• antibacterial
• anti-inflammatory
• antimicrobial
• astringent (helps tighten skin)

Geranium may assist with acne, even out pigmentation, and help regulate sebum by supporting skin moisture retention.

Ylang-ylang (Cananga odorata)

Research indicates ylang-ylang oils contain antioxidants that can encourage skin cell renewal and smooth fine lines.

Because it may balance sebum production, ylang-ylang can be moisturizing and lubricating—attributes that support its skin-smoothing potential.

Helichrysum

A 2020 trial involving 117 people using a night cream with melatonin, carnosine, and Helichrysum italicum extract over 12 weeks reported improvements in:

• hydration and transepidermal water loss
• wrinkle counts
• sun spots
• skin calmness

Yet, because the product contained multiple active ingredients, it’s unclear how much helichrysum alone contributed. More focused clinical research is needed on helichrysum essential oil by itself.

Neroli (Citrus aurantium L.)

As a citrus-derived oil, neroli may support collagen production thanks to its vitamin C content, potentially helping to:

• renew skin cells
• firm the skin
• reduce the appearance of wrinkles

Vitamin C also helps:

• counteract UV-related damage like sun spots
• neutralize free radicals
• shield skin from environmental pollutants

Pomegranate flower extract (Punica granatum)

Research on pomegranate oil in cosmetics is limited. A 2023 study suggested pomegranate flower extract may have anti-inflammatory and anti-acne benefits.

However, that study combined pomegranate blossom and banana peel in a cream, so the individual effect of pomegranate isn’t certain.

Pomegranate’s antioxidants could help with signs of skin aging and offer some UV defense, but it shouldn’t replace sunscreen.

Frankincense (Boswellia sacra)

Research indicates frankincense essential oil may support collagen synthesis.

Since collagen production declines with age, supporting it may help lessen fine lines and wrinkles.

Frankincense also offers potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits that help protect skin from:

• sun damage
• free radicals
• premature aging

Lavender (Lavandula)

Lavender contains antioxidants that may counteract free radicals and reduce stress-related skin concerns. These properties can soothe tired, dull skin.

Lavender’s anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antibacterial, and collagen-supporting traits contribute to healthier skin aging.

Step 3: Select a carrier oil

The last step to finishing your skin serum is diluting essential oils with a carrier oil.

A carrier oil tempers the potency of essential oils to prevent irritation and extends the life of the blend.

Carrier oils also deliver extra moisturizing benefits, which are crucial for any anti-aging skincare routine.

Jojoba (Simmondsia chinensis L.)

Jojoba has a long history of traditional use for various skin issues.

The fatty seeds offer substantial moisture, making jojoba an excellent carrier for essential oils. Well-hydrated skin can help minimize the look of wrinkles.

Jojoba oil is also used for:

• acne
• inflammation
• skin lesions
• supporting collagen

Vitamin E (tocopherol)

Vitamin E is a potent antioxidant that protects cells from oxidative stress. Applied topically, vitamin E oil may help repair and improve skin.

Researchers have found vitamin E oil can:

• even out skin tone
• smooth rough texture
• encourage collagen formation
• help defend against UV damage

As a carrier, vitamin E can enhance the restorative effects of essential oils.

Grape seed (Vitis vinifera)

Used historically in medicine by the ancient Greeks, grape seed oil is known for:

• antioxidant activity
• benefits for healthy skin aging
• ability to help even skin tone

Apricot kernel (Prunus armeniaca)

Apricot oil, like vitamin E and grape seed oil, can nourish and rejuvenate skin.

Pressed from apricot seeds, it contains vitamin E and is rich in linoleic and oleic acids—essential fatty acids that support supple skin.

A 2019 report noted apricot oil’s fatty acid profile makes it readily absorbed and suitable for dry skin.

Almond (Prunus amygdalus)

Almond oil, like vitamin E and other carrier oils, offers nourishing and skin-revitalizing effects.

Studies indicate almond oil has notable anti-inflammatory benefits, which may help manage inflammatory skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis.

For aging skin, almond oil may improve:

• complexion
• dryness
• appearance of scars
• overall skin tone

Avocado (Persea gratissima)

Known for heart-healthy fats, avocados are also valuable in skincare. Avocado oil is an antioxidant and may have anti-inflammatory effects.

Oils from the seeds are especially touted for their collagen-supporting properties.

Argan (Argania spinosa)

Argan oil, derived from Moroccan argan trees, is rich in vitamin E and beneficial fatty acids.

Used widely in hair and skin products, argan as a carrier may help improve skin elasticity and reduce inflammation, according to a 2024 review.

Rule of thumb for mixing an essential oil serum

You can blend oils in a separate mixing bottle or add essential oils directly into a carrier oil container. A common ratio is about 10 drops of essential oil per 1/2 ounce of carrier oil.

For the best results, apply your homemade essential oil serum twice daily—consistency is key, similar to using a wrinkle cream.

For additional resources on body-smoothing blends, consider reading about essential oils for cellulite which can complement your skincare knowledge.

Potential side effects and cautions

Despite being plant-derived, essential oils are not without risks.

Individuals may develop allergies or sensitivities to topical essential oils even if they tolerate the plant itself. Signs of a reaction can include:

• hives
• redness or discoloration
• bumps
• rashes
• itching at the site of application
• sneezing or runny nose
• watery eyes or eye irritation

Stop using any oil immediately if you notice these symptoms. Always carry out a patch test before using new skincare products.

Why patch testing matters

A simple way to lower the risk of an allergic response is to perform a patch test on the inner elbow before broader use.

Test twice daily for up to five days to be sure; most reactions appear within 24 hours. If any reaction occurs, discontinue use and consult a dermatologist for alternative wrinkle-smoothing strategies.

Takeaway

You can craft a serum to support aging skin using the essential and carrier oils listed here, but consult your dermatologist and do a patch test first.

Visible improvements can take months. If you don’t notice changes after a few months, speak with your dermatologist about prescription options or professional treatments.

Always check with your doctor about potential risks or interactions. Allergic reactions to essential oils are possible, so proceed with caution.