In an era overflowing with serums, retinols, and high-tech skin innovations, it’s easy to overlook some of the most time-tested anti-aging ingredients on the planet: natural face oils. According to longtime skincare expert Chris Gibson—who has spent 37 years in holistic and professional skincare—certain botanicals are so powerful, they can firm, brighten, hydrate, and even soften the look of wrinkles as effectively as some of today’s most buzzed-about treatments.
“These oils have been used for thousands of years, and for good reason,” Gibson explains in his video compilation exploring the most potent plant oils for youthful skin. “They’re sustainable, natural, cruelty-free, inexpensive, and shockingly effective.”
Below, we break down the ancient oils experts say can visibly slow (and even reverse the look of) aging—plus how to use them for the strongest results.
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Frankincense: The ‘Lifting’ Oil That Protects and Tightens
Known as “liquid gold” in ancient cultures, frankincense has been prized for over 3,000 years for its healing and restorative abilities.
Gibson explains that frankincense acts as a natural astringent—similar to caffeine—helping to:
- Lift and tighten sagging skin
- Strengthen the skin’s barrier
- Boost regeneration for smoother, younger-looking texture
- Reduce inflammation and redness
It’s especially powerful on: jowls, forehead lines, under-eye sagging, and crepey areas of the neck.
Myrrh: The Glow-Giving Oil Loved by Ancient Egyptians
A staple in ancient Egyptian beauty routines, myrrh is another anti-aging staple thanks to its ability to:
- Stimulate superficial circulation for a healthier glow
- Reduce the appearance of scars
- Tighten pore appearance
- Soothe and calm irritated skin
Gibson notes that myrrh is particularly good for those with dry, sensitive, or mature skin craving radiance.
The bottom line
Despite the explosion of new-age skincare, some of the most effective anti-aging tools are the ones time has already proven. “These are the oils I keep coming back to, after decades of testing everything,” Gibson says. “Used consistently, they truly can transform the look of aging skin.” Whether you’re targeting fine lines, sagging, dark spots, dryness, or crepiness, these ancient face oils deliver powerful results the natural way—no Botox necessary.
