Can You Use Facial Oils If You Have Oily Skin?

We frequently receive questions from customers about how to incorporate various skincare products into their routines. One of the most misunderstood products is facial oil. Many people assume that oily, acne-prone skin should avoid facial oils. This common misconception stems from the fact that oily skin is often associated with breakouts, so it seems logical to assume that adding oil to the mix would only exacerbate these concerns. However, the truth is that even if your skin is oily, facial oils can be an excellent addition to your skincare routine. The key is using the right type of oil and applying it properly (so, leave that jar of coconut oil in the kitchen cabinet for now!).

Fortunately, we’re here to help. In this guide, we’ll explain how to incorporate facial oils into your daily routine if you have oily skin. We’ll also introduce you to the best oils for oily skin and share tips on how to use them correctly. Keep reading for Kiehl’s ultimate guide to using facial oils on oily skin.

What is Facial Oil? How Does It Differ from Serums?

Before diving into the benefits of facial oils, it’s essential to differentiate them from other targeted skincare products. Like serums, facial oils are concentrated liquids designed to address one or more skin concerns, such as dryness or irritation. However, while serums are typically water-based, facial oils are usually made from plant oils and emollients, such as squalane derived from olives (a signature ingredient in many Kiehl’s products). Some formulas may also contain additional skin-loving ingredients like plant extracts.

What Does Facial Oil Do?

Facial oils serve a variety of purposes, but they are primarily used to help nourish and soften the skin, leaving it smoother and more even-toned. If you have oily skin, you might think that oils aren’t necessary. However, this is a misconception.

“Despite being called ‘oils,�?facial oils come in many different varieties. No matter your skin issue or type, there’s a facial oil that’s right for you (or five).�?Different formulas address unique concerns, meaning facial oils can be an essential addition to any skincare routine. The key is choosing a formula tailored to your specific needs.

Will Facial Oil Clog Pores?

If you have oily skin, the idea of adding facial oil to your routine may seem intimidating (especially if you struggle with acne). We get it: the idea of applying oil to combat excess oil can feel counterintuitive. Additionally, for many years, the common skincare advice was to avoid oily products if you had oily skin.

However, recent research shows that the right type of oil—especially non-comedogenic oils, like hemp seed oil rich in CBD—can actually help balance the skin. This is because dehydrated skin often compensates by overproducing sebum (natural oils). This excess oil can clog pores, lead to more frequent breakouts, and contribute to an oily shine. In other words, oily skin can benefit from facial oils—if they are the right oils.

How to Use Facial Oil for Oily Skin

Now that we’ve established that facial oils can be beneficial for oily skin, it’s crucial to use them correctly for optimal results. Here are a few tips on how to incorporate facial oils into your routine:

1. Choose Non-Comedogenic Oils
   The key is selecting oils that won’t clog your pores. Look for oils like hemp seed oil, rosehip oil, or squalane, which are lightweight and non-comedogenic. These oils hydrate your skin without causing breakouts.
2. Apply After Your Serum
   Facial oils should be applied after your serum but before your moisturizer. This layering technique ensures that your oil locks in all the beneficial ingredients from your serum and keeps your skin hydrated.
3. Use a Small Amount
   A little goes a long way when it comes to facial oils. Start with just a few drops and gently press the oil into your skin. Avoid using excessive amounts, as this can make your skin feel greasy rather than hydrated.
4. Use Oils at Night
   If you’re concerned about looking shiny during the day, apply facial oils at night. This gives your skin time to absorb the oil without the fear of excess shine during your daily activities. Overnight, facial oils can work wonders to replenish and balance your skin.
5. Combine with Mattifying Products
   If you’re still concerned about excess shine, pair your facial oil with a mattifying moisturizer or primer. This combination can help balance oil production while ensuring your skin remains hydrated.

Best Facial Oils for Oily Skin

When choosing a facial oil for oily skin, it’s important to pick one that’s formulated for your skin type. Here are some top recommendations for oily skin:

• Kiehl’s Cannabis Sativa Seed Oil
  This oil, which is rich in CBD, helps to soothe and balance the skin, making it perfect for those with oily or acne-prone skin. It also helps with redness and irritation, providing a calming effect.
• Kiehl’s Daily Reviving Concentrate
  Lightweight and non-comedogenic, this oil contains ginger root, sunflower seed, and tamanu oils. It’s great for boosting radiance without causing breakouts.
• Rosehip Oil
  Known for its high vitamin C content, rosehip oil is ideal for oily skin as it helps improve skin texture while promoting a healthy glow.

Conclusion

Using facial oils on oily skin is not only possible but can actually be highly beneficial when done correctly. The right oils—like hemp seed oil, squalane, or rosehip oil—can help balance and hydrate your skin without clogging pores. By incorporating facial oils into your routine with the right technique, you can achieve a more balanced, smooth, and radiant complexion. So, don’t be afraid to add a nourishing facial oil to your skincare arsenal; just be sure to choose the right one for your skin’s unique needs.