A face oil is not a one-size-fits-all product. Which oil suits you best depends on your skin type, the texture that feels comfortable, the time of use and what you expect from the oil. An oil that works excellently on dry skin may be too rich for oily skin. An oil that is pleasant in the evening can feel awkward under make-up during the day. In this article you will read how to choose a face oil that suits your skin, which properties are decisive in that choice and how to use the oil correctly in your routine. For an extensive overview of all oils by skin type, read our oil guide. For the background on how oils work, read our article on natural skincare explained.
1. How to choose a face oil
When choosing a face oil, three factors play the largest role: the fatty acid composition, the comedogenicity score and the texture.
Fatty acid composition
Oils with a high proportion of linoleic acid have a lighter texture and dry down faster. They suit skin types where the linoleic acid balance is disrupted, such as acne-prone and oily skin types. Oils with a high proportion of oleic acid are richer and more nourishing, suitable for drier and more mature skin types.
Comedogenicity score
Comedogenicity is the degree to which an oil can clog pores. Oils are rated on a scale of 0 to 5, where 0 is non-comedogenic and 5 is strongly comedogenic. For acne-prone or oily skin, oils with a score of 0 to 2 are most suitable. This is not an absolute guarantee but a useful indication.
| Oil | Comedogenicity | Main fatty acid | Texture |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jojoba oil | 2 | Wax ester | Light |
| Rosehip oil | 1 | Linoleic acid | Light, dry |
| Hemp seed oil | 0 | Linoleic acid | Light |
| Argan oil | 0 | Oleic acid | Light to medium |
| Avocado oil | 3 | Oleic acid | Rich |
| Macadamia oil | 2 | Oleic acid + palmitoleic acid | Medium |
| Baobab oil | 2 | Oleic acid + linoleic acid | Medium |
| Castor oil | 1 | Ricinoleic acid | Thick (always diluted) |
2. Recommendations by skin type
Oily skin
With oily skin, the urge to avoid oil is understandable but not always the right choice. A light oil that aligns with the skin barrier can actually help keep the skin in balance.
Jojoba oil is the most logical choice: light texture, low comedogenicity and a wax ester structure that resembles the skin's own sebum. Hemp seed oil has a comedogenicity score of 0 and a high linoleic acid content, which makes it suitable for skin that gets shiny quickly. Use a small amount; start with one to two drops. Read more about oily skin in our article on what oily skin is.
Dry skin
Dry skin benefits from a richer oil that replenishes the lipid layer and limits moisture loss.
Argan oil is an excellent choice for daily use: light enough for daytime, nourishing enough for the evening. Avocado oil is richer and suitable as an evening oil for structurally dry skin. Read more about dry skin in our article on what dry skin is.
Sensitive skin
With sensitive skin, simplicity and mild ingredient lists are the starting point. Avoid oils with essential oils or strong fragrances.
Macadamia oil contains palmitoleic acid, a fatty acid that also occurs in the skin and is therefore skin-related. Baobab oil is mild and broadly tolerated. Both are good starting points for sensitive skin. Always do a patch test. Read more about sensitive skin in our article on what sensitive skin is.
Combination skin
With combination skin, a light oil that can be used over the whole face is most practical. Jojoba oil or rosehip oil are commonly used choices because of their light texture and broad suitability. Read more about combination skin in our article on what combination skin is.
Mature skin
More mature skin benefits from oils that align with the lipids the skin itself produces less of. Rosehip oil is light and contains essential fatty acids. Macadamia oil, thanks to its high palmitoleic acid content, suits mature skin well. Baobab oil is richer and suitable as an evening oil. Read more about mature skin in our article on what mature skin is.
Acne-prone skin
With acne-prone skin, light oils with low comedogenicity are most suitable. Hemp seed oil has a comedogenicity of 0 and a high linoleic acid content. Jojoba oil is another safe option. Always do a patch test on a small area of skin and observe for two weeks before drawing conclusions. Read more about acne-prone skin in our article on what to do about acne.
3. How to use a face oil
A face oil belongs as the lipid step at the end of the routine, after cleansing and hydrosol and before sun protection during the day.
- Apply two to four drops to lightly damp skin after the hydrosol
- Warm the oil briefly between the palms and press gently into the face
- Spreading and rubbing is not necessary and burdens the skin unnecessarily
- During the day: let it absorb well before applying sun protection
Always start with less than you think you need. With oils, two drops is a good starting point. More oil does not lead to better results but more often to a greasy feeling or over-stimulation.
This article is intended solely as informative background and does not replace medical advice. If skin complaints persist, consult a general practitioner or dermatologist.
4. Day or night
| Morning | Evening | |
|---|---|---|
| Amount | Less, one to two drops | Slightly more, two to four drops |
| Texture preference | Light, fast-absorbing | Can be richer |
| Next step | Sun protection | None |
| Best oil during the day | Jojoba, rosehip oil, argan oil | All, including richer oils |
5. Common mistakes
- Using too much oil: start with two drops and build up
- Applying oil before the hydrosol: oil is always the last step before SPF
- Trying a new oil every week: give a routine four to six weeks
- Not doing a patch test: reactions can occur even with mild oils
- Avoiding oil because you have oily skin: a light oil is worthwhile on oily skin too
Frequently asked questions
Can I use a face oil if I have oily skin?
Yes. It is a common misconception that oil is not suitable for oily skin. A light oil with low comedogenicity, such as jojoba oil or hemp seed oil, can support the skin barrier without clogging pores. Use a small amount and give the skin three to four weeks to adjust.
How do I know whether a face oil suits me?
Always do a patch test on the inside of the elbow and wait 24 hours. After that, start using it on the face, in the evening first so you can observe the reaction well. A good reaction is: the skin feels comfortable, not greasy and not irritated. Give a new oil at least three to four weeks before you draw a conclusion.
Can I mix multiple oils?
Yes, mixing oils is very common. A widely used approach is to supplement a base oil such as jojoba or argan oil with a small amount of rosehip oil or macadamia oil. Mix the oils in the palm of your hand just before use, not in a separate bottle, because mixed oils oxidize faster than pure oils.
When in my routine do I use the face oil?
Always as the last step before sun protection. The order is: cleanse, hydrosol, oil, SPF. Applying oil after SPF is not useful because the SPF then adheres less well. In the evening the order is: cleanse, hydrosol, oil. Oil is the last step.
Best face oil for dry skin: which do you choose?
For dry skin, oils with a high oleic acid content are most supportive: argan oil for daily use (light, broadly tolerated), avocado oil for rich evening care, and rosehip oil as a light evening oil for drier skin with an uneven texture. Always apply to lightly damp skin after a hydrosol for the best effect.
Best face oil for mature or older skin?
For mature skin, argan oil (light, broadly usable) and rosehip oil (light, high in linoleic acid, carotenoids) are the most commonly used choices. Avocado oil is richer and suitable as an evening oil for pronounced dry mature skin. Castor oil diluted in jojoba works as a film-forming seal. Jojoba is the safest starter oil for sensitive mature skin.
Best face oil for oily or acne-prone skin?
For oily or acne-prone skin, jojoba oil and hemp seed oil are the safest choices: light, non-comedogenic and broadly tolerated. Avoid rich oils high in oleic acid such as avocado on the face for acne-prone skin. Use a small amount and observe for two weeks before passing judgment.
Face oil for dull skin: what gives more glow?
Dull skin benefits from oils that restore the skin film and improve light reflection. Argan oil is known for the glow it gives the skin. Jojoba oil is a light daily option. Rosehip oil is used for uneven, dull skin texture. Apply to lightly damp skin for the best glow and avoid too much oil, which gives a greasy finish.
Natural face oil experiences: what works for people?
Users of pure plant-based face oils describe softer, more comfortable skin after consistent daily use. The most commonly mentioned positive experiences are with argan oil and jojoba oil: light, not sticky and broadly tolerated. People who switch from synthetic creams to pure oil describe an adjustment period of two to four weeks.
Face oil versus face cream: what is the difference?
A face oil contains only lipids and no water. A cream is an emulsion of water and oil with preservatives and emulsifiers. Oil strengthens the skin barrier and seals in moisture; a cream also adds moisture directly. For dry skin, both work best together: a watery step (hydrosol or cream), then oil as a seal. After oil, you no longer apply watery products.
How do you use a face oil step by step?
The order in the routine: cleanse, hydrosol (rose water or lavender water), optionally a serum, then one to three drops of face oil, then SPF during the day. Apply the oil to lightly damp skin by patting and lightly massaging it in. Wait two minutes before applying SPF. Use more in the evening than during the day; a richer oil may absorb longer overnight.
Also take a look at our facial care range and our collection of natural oils.
