If slathering oil on your skin might seem counter-productive to you, think again. In what might seem like a beauty paradox, studies have shown that one of the best ways to hydrate and nourish the skin, especially oily ones, is with plant-based oils, especially as the mercury drops. Here then are five oils you’ll need in your beauty arsenal for glowing skin and healthy nails and hair.

Carrot Oil

The beta-carotene packed vegetable’s high concentration of vitamin A makes a healthier alternative to sun tanning lotion as it not only preps skin for sun exposure and gives a tan-enhancing glow. Its restorative and nourishing qualities also facilitates healing and reparation of skin when used as after-sun care.

Jojoba Oil

With a composition close to that of human sebum, jojoba oil helps regulate the body’s natural production of the substance, making it perfect for all skin types, even for oily skin. Its deeply hydrating qualities means that it could may well be the solution to your winter hair woes too.

Argan Oil

Produced from the kernels of the Moroccan argan tree, argan oil is not only a staple at a Mediterranean dinner table, it’s also been reliable in restoring dry or damaged skin. Its high levels of vitamin E and fatty acids repairs and provides nutrients to conditions such as burns, stretch marks and eczema without causing further dryness and irritation. The versatile oil is also known for its anti-ageing properties, thanks to its high levels of antioxidants, restoring elasticity and leaving skin looking plumper and softer (read: less wrinkles!).

Castor Oil

The age-old beauty treatment not only boasts natural anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties, but is also high on vitamin E and beneficial Omega 6 and 9 fatty acids. The oil’s high ricinoleic acid content helps balance the scalp’s pH levels and supports the keratin in hair, making it a fantastic remedy for a range of hair and scalp issues.

Apricot Kernel Oil

Made from cold pressing dried seeds, apricot oil has been a key ingredient in many day creams, thanks to its rich vitamin A and E properties.  The lightly-fragrant oil gives skin the brightening boost it needs during the dry winter season, its thin viscosity making it easier for rapid skin penetration, so you can expect faster relief from dull and tired-looking skin.