How to Use Facial Oils: A Complete Guide for Hydrated, Glowing Skin

Facial oil should be applied as the last step in your skincare routine, after your serum and moisturiser. Because oil molecules are larger than water-based products, applying it last creates a protective seal that locks in all the hydration and active ingredients underneath. The only exception is if you are using a very lightweight, fast-absorbing oil — in that case, you can layer it between your serum and moisturiser. For best results, apply 2–4 drops morning and evening onto slightly damp skin.

Yes — the right facial oil can actually benefit oily and acne-prone skin. Counterintuitively, applying a lightweight, non-comedogenic oil signals to your skin that it is sufficiently moisturised, which can reduce excess sebum production over time. The key is choosing the right oil: jojoba, squalane, and rosehip oil closely mimic the skin's natural sebum and absorb without clogging pores. Avoid heavy oils such as coconut oil or shea if you are acne-prone, as these sit on the surface and can cause breakouts.

Facial oils and moisturisers serve different purposes and work best together. Moisturisers are water-based and deliver hydration directly into the skin. Facial oils are lipid-based and work primarily by forming a barrier over the skin to prevent transepidermal water loss. Using both — moisturiser first, oil second — gives you hydration and lasting protection. If you have very dry or mature skin especially, skipping the oil means your moisturiser's benefits evaporate much faster. Think of your moisturiser as a drink of water and your facial oil as the seal that keeps it there.

The best facial oil for your skin type depends on its weight and fatty acid profile. Dry and mature skin benefits from richer oils high in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, such as rosehip, marula, or argan oil, which deeply nourish and support the skin barrier. Combination skin responds well to balanced oils like jojoba or sea buckthorn. Oily skin thrives with squalane or hemp seed oil, both lightweight and easily absorbed. Sensitive skin should look for fragrance-free, antioxidant-rich oils such as sea buckthorn or bakuchiol-infused blends that calm redness without irritation.

Natural facial oils offer significant anti-aging benefits by supporting the skin's lipid barrier, which thins with age. Oils rich in antioxidants — such as vitamin E in argan oil, or beta-carotene in rosehip oil — neutralise free radicals that cause collagen breakdown and accelerate visible aging. Omega fatty acids in oils like marula and rosehip help repair damaged skin cells and improve elasticity, visibly reducing fine lines over time. Regular use of facial oil in your evening routine can also improve overnight skin regeneration, leaving skin noticeably firmer, more even in tone, and more radiant with consistent use.

As a general guide: 2–3 drops for normal and combination skin, 3–4 drops for dry or mature skin, and 1–2 drops for oily skin. Warm the drops between your palms first, then gently press — do not rub — the oil into your face using upward motions. Pressing rather than rubbing ensures the oil absorbs evenly without disrupting your skin barrier or pulling at the skin. For the eye area, use just 1 drop patted gently with your ring finger, which applies the least pressure. Less is more: starting with fewer drops and building up is always better than over-application.