Facial oil is not a one-size-fits-all product. Which oil works best depends on your skin type, the texture you like, when you use it, and what you expect from it. An oil that works very well for dry skin may be too rich for oily skin. An oil that feels pleasant at night may feel awkward under makeup during the day. In this article, you’ll learn how to choose a facial oil that suits your skin, which properties matter most, and how to use the oil correctly in your routine. For a complete overview of all oils by skin type, read our oil guide. For background on how oils work, read our article on natural skincare explained.
1. How to choose a facial oil
When choosing a facial oil, three factors play the biggest role: the fatty acid profile, the comedogenicity score, and the texture.
Fatty acid profile
Oils with a high proportion of linoleic acid are lighter in texture and absorb faster. They suit skin types where the linoleic balance is disrupted, such as acne-prone and oily skin types. Oils with a high proportion of oleic acid are richer and more nourishing, making them 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 from 0 to 5, where 0 is non-comedogenic and 5 is highly 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 it is a useful indicator.
| 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 supports the skin barrier can actually help keep the skin balanced.
Jojoba oil is the most logical choice: light texture, low comedogenicity, and a wax ester structure similar to the skin’s own sebum. Hemp seed oil has a comedogenicity score of 0 and a high linoleic acid content, making it suitable for skin that gets shiny quickly. Use a small amount, starting with one to two drops. Read more about oily skin in our article on what is oily skin.
Dry skin
Dry skin benefits from a richer oil that replenishes the lipid layer and reduces 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 chronically dry skin. Read more about dry skin in our article on what is dry skin.
Sensitive skin
With sensitive skin, simplicity and gentle ingredient lists are the starting point. Avoid oils with essential oils or strong fragrances.
Macadamia oil contains palmitoleic acid, a fatty acid also found in the skin and therefore skin-friendly. Baobab oil is mild and broadly well tolerated. Both are good starting points for sensitive skin. Always do a patch test. Read more about sensitive skin in our article on what is sensitive skin.
Combination skin
For combination skin, a light oil that can be used all over the face is the most practical. Jojoba oil or rosehip oil are common choices because of their light texture and broad suitability. Read more about combination skin in our article on what is combination skin.
Mature skin
Mature skin benefits from oils that match the lipids the skin produces less of itself. Rosehip oil is light and contains essential fatty acids. Macadamia oil suits mature skin well thanks to its high palmitoleic acid content. Baobab oil is richer and suitable as an evening oil. Read more about mature skin in our article on what is mature skin.
Acne-prone skin
For 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 for acne.
3. How to use a facial oil
A facial oil belongs as the lipid step at the end of the routine, after cleansing and hydrolate and before sun protection during the day.
- Apply two to four drops to slightly damp skin after the hydrolate
- Warm the oil briefly between your palms and gently press it into the face
- There is no need to spread or rub it in; that only puts unnecessary stress on the skin
- 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 it does more often cause a greasy feeling or overstimulation.
This article is intended for informational background only and does not replace medical advice. If skin problems persist, consult a GP or dermatologist.
4. Day or night
| Morning | Evening | |
|---|---|---|
| Amount | Less, one to two drops | A little 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 hydrolate: 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 rich oil with oily skin: a light oil is also useful for oily skin
Frequently asked questions
Can I use a facial 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 if a facial oil suits me?
Always do a patch test on the inside of your elbow and wait 24 hours. Then start using it on the face, first in the evening so you can observe the reaction properly. A good reaction is: the skin feels comfortable, not greasy and not irritated. Give a new oil at least three to four weeks before drawing a conclusion.
Can I mix multiple oils?
Yes, mixing oils is very common. A common approach is to complement 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 blended oils oxidize faster than pure oils.
When in the routine should I use facial oil?
Always as the last step before sun protection. The order is: cleanse, hydrolate, oil, SPF. Applying oil after SPF does not make sense because the SPF then adheres less well. In the evening the order is: cleanse, hydrolate, oil. Oil is the final step.
Best facial oil for dry skin: which one should you choose?
For dry skin, oils with a high oleic acid content are the most supportive: argan oil for daily use (light, broadly well tolerated), avocado oil for rich evening care, and rosehip oil as a light evening oil for drier skin with uneven texture. Always apply to slightly damp skin after a hydrolate for the best effect.
Best facial oil for mature or older skin?
For mature skin, argan oil (light, versatile) 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 very dry mature skin. Castor oil diluted in jojoba works as a film-forming finish. Jojoba is the safest starter oil for sensitive mature skin.
Best facial 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 well tolerated. Avoid rich oils high in oleic acid, such as avocado, on acne-prone facial skin. Use a small amount and observe for two weeks before making a judgment.
Facial oil for dull skin: what adds 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 everyday option. Rosehip oil is used for uneven, dull skin texture. Apply to slightly damp skin for the best glow and avoid using too much oil, which leaves a greasy finish.
Natural facial oil experiences: what works for people?
Users of pure plant-based facial oils describe smoother, more comfortable skin after consistent daily use. The most commonly reported positive experiences are with argan oil and jojoba oil: light, non-sticky and broadly well tolerated. People switching from synthetic creams to pure oil describe an adjustment period of two to four weeks.
Facial oil versus face cream: what is the difference?
A facial 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 locks in moisture; cream also adds moisture directly. For dry skin, both work best together: a water-based step (hydrolate or cream), then oil as the finishing step. After oil, do not apply water-based products anymore.
How do you use a facial oil step by step?
The order in the routine: cleanse, hydrolate (rose water or lavender water), serum if desired, then one to three drops of facial oil, then SPF during the day. Apply the oil to slightly 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 be left to absorb longer in the evening.
Also check out our facial care range and our collection of natural oils.
