The Benefits of Using Oil on Your Face

let’s talk face oils

When I originally sat down to write about using oil on your face, I was writing it as an Instagram caption. Well, it was getting to be a pretty long caption, so I decided to write a dedicated blog post instead! I’ve been super passionate about skincare for years now. I love sharing what I learn along the way, so let’s talk oil!

oil based cleansers and balms

The first way you can use oil on your face is by using a cleansing oil or cleansing balm. The first oil based cleansing balm I ever used was by Damn Good Face Wash & I fell in love. So much so, that I’ve never looked back. I love oil based cleansers because they remove all makeup, dirt, and debris from the skin. I also think they are a million times more effective than makeup remover wipes.

The idea behind cleansing oils is that like dissolves like. So oil based cleansers will dissolve any oil based makeup on your skin as well as any excess oil and sweat. My biggest piece of advice is to not be scared to use oil on your face. If this is a new concept to you, it can definitely sound sketchy, especially if your skin type is oily. BUT do not be scared! It will only help your skin in the long run, I promise!

if you prefer, this can be the only step in your cleansing routine, or it can be the first step if you choose to double cleanse.

double cleansing

If you choose to double cleanse, you will follow up with a water based cleanser that is specific to your skin type. This means your water based cleanser should include ingredients to hydrate, brighten, smooth, exfoliate, or treat acne, depending on your individual needs. If your skin is normal, double cleansing may not be necessary, especially every day. It is important to tailor this part of your routine to your specific needs so you can avoid over-washing.

facial oils

In addition to cleansing oils and balms, there are also facial oils that you can apply to the skin at the end of your routine. You can use a face oil instead of or in addition to a face cream/moisturizer. The type of facial oil you decide to use will depend on your skin type. Some popular face oils are jojoba oil, rosehip oil, squalane oil, marula oil, and argan oil. I would recommend researching your specific skin type to see which type of oil would be the most beneficial depending on your needs.

things to note

When choosing a facial oil, I always recommend finding one that is non-comedogenic (same goes for makeup, particularly foundation). This means it will not clog your pores. For this reason, I recommend avoiding using coconut oil on your face. Even though it works wonders on dry skin (I do use coconut oil on my body), I never put it on my face simply because there are plenty of options that yield the same result and are less likely to clog pores.

When we talk about cleansing oils and facial oils, they are NOT the same thing as essential oils. Cleansing oils and facial oils are fatty oils that are also known as carrier oils. Essential oils are much more concentrated and must be applied to the skin with a carrier oil. There are essential oils that can benefit your skin, such as lavender and frankincense, but you want to make sure you are applying them along with a carrier oil. I can do an entire separate post on this!

If you choose to use a facial oil and a moisturizer/face cream, make sure you apply the facial oil first and then your moisturizer. You always want to layer your products from thinnest to thickest that way they all get absorbed into the skin and you see the results your looking for!

my routine

For reference, my skin type is pretty normal and tends to get a bit dry in the winter time. My night time routine consists of using an oil based cleanser or cleansing balm, followed by a water based cleanser a couple times per week, and an exfoliator once a week. I always follow up with a toner and then facial oil. In the winter, I will layer a facial oil and moisturizer if my skin is dry and needs some extra love. In the morning, I use a water based cleanser as needed. If I do cleanse my skin in the morning, I will follow up with a light weight moisturizer to prep my skin for makeup.