Can You Use Facial Oil If You Have Oily Skin?

By Kiehl’s Education Team

Facial oils deserve a spot in your skincare routine, even if you have oily skin. Here, discover our best facial oils for oily skin and learn how to use them.

At Kiehl’s, we’re often asked about how to use different types of skincare formulas, and facial oils are among the most misunderstood products. A lot of people seem to think that oils are off-limits for those with oily, blemish-prone skin. It is a common misconception — however, oils can be a terrific addition to your skincare routine, even if you have a shinier skin type. The key is using the right ones — and using them properly.

What Are Facial Oils — and How Do Facial Oils Differ from Serums?

Before we discuss the benefits of facial oils, it is important to differentiate oils from other targeted skincare treatments. Like serums, facial oils are concentrated liquids formulated to help address one or more skin concerns, such as dryness or irritation.
However, while serums are light and water-based, facial oils are made with plant oils and emollients, like olive-derived squalane (a Kiehl's signature ingredient) and have a richer texture which helps to condition the skin barrier. Serums tend to contain water soluble active ingredients such as vitamin C and retinol, while oils are rich in emollients and contain other skin-friendly ingredients, like plant extracts.

What Are Facial Oils Used For?

While facial oils have many applications, they are typically used to help moisturise, condition, and soften the skin to promote a smoother, more even skin texture. Rich fatty acids help to seal in moisture to protect the skin barrier and can soothe sensitive skin, dry patches and help to balance oil production. Different oil formulations address different unique issues, and as such, facial oils can be a worthy addition to any skincare routine, even for oilier skin types. The key is to choose a formula suited for your specific needs.

WILL FACIAL OILS CLOG MY PORES?

If you have oily skin, adding facial oil to your skincare routine can be intimidating (even more so if you have blemish-prone skin). The thought that applying oil could somehow help reduce oil can seem counterintuitive at first. Additionally, up until fairly recently, it was common practice in skincare to avoid oil-based products if you have oily skin. But recent studies have shown that the right oils — specifically, non-comedogenic varieties, like cannabidiol-rich Cannabis Sativa Seed Oil Herbal Concentrate — can help balance the skin and sebum production. This is because dehydrated skin tends to over-produce sebum to compensate for the lack of moisture. Excessive oiliness often leads to clogged pores, more frequent breakouts, and shiny-looking skin. In other words, oily skin types benefit from using facial oils — so long as they are the right kind of oils. When looking for the right facial oil for you, make sure to look for non-comedogenic formulations and for dry oil formulations. If you have oily skin or are prone to blemishes, the best way to avoid potential issues is by sticking to facial oils labeled "non-comedogenic" which means they will not clog your pores.

Cannabis Sativa Seed Oil Herbal  Extract Facial Oil

Created for all skin types, including oily, and blemish-prone skin, Cannabis Sativa Seed Oil Herbal Concentrate is a non-comedogenic facial oil that helps to visibly reduce skin blotchiness and provides skin with relief from feelings of discomfort. It calms the feeling of stressed skin while helping balance hydration and helps strengthen skin’s barrier function to help skin protect itself.

Midnight Recovery Concentrate  Facial Oil

At night, reach for an oil that helps hydrate and repair your skin. We recommend Midnight Recovery Concentrate, which contains squalane, evening primrose oil, and aromatic lavender essential oil. This Kiehl's customer favourite is ideal for mature skin, absorbs quickly and helps replenish the skin at night when it is most receptive to repairing itself from daily stressors. It also helps boost essential moisture, leaving skin looking firmer and smoother over time. We recommend applying several drops to clean, dry skin as part of your nighttime skincare routine.

3 Tips for How To Use Facial Oils for Oily Skin

Understanding which facial oil is best for your specific skin concerns and needs is the first step. Now, discover our top tips for incorporating facial oils into your skincare routine.

Tip #1: Always Cleanse First

Before applying your facial oil, it is imperative that you wash your face thoroughly. A good cleanser helps remove impurities, like dirt and pollutants, that could otherwise accumulate and clog your pores or irritate your skin. Applying your facial oil after washing your face also helps trap moisture, leaving your skin feeling softer and more hydrated.

If you wear makeup, we recommend first washing with an oil-based cleanser, like Midnight Recovery Botanical Cleansing Oil. This lightweight cleansing oil emulsifies with water to create a light, milky lather that washes away impurities without over-drying the skin. It is non-comedogenic, suitable for all skin types, and rinses off easily, leaving your skin feeling soft and replenished.

For an even more thorough clean, try double cleansing. This method involves first washing your face with an oil cleanser, like the one mentioned above, then washing your face again with a foaming face wash like our Ultra Facial Cleanser.

Tip #2: Apply Your Water-Based Treatments First

After washing and drying your face, you can go ahead and apply your chosen skin treatments, we recommend applying these products according to weight. Fast-absorbing, water-based products like serums should be applied first, while heavier oils should be layered at the end of your routine. Keep in mind that with most oils, less is more: a few drops are usually more than enough for your entire face.

It is also important to note that even the most hydrating facial oils are not a replacement for a moisturiser. You may still need a face cream or lotion before your facial oil because these products add water to the skin, which is key if your skin feels dehydrated. In the daytime, it's essential to finish with a sunscreen to protect your skin from the damaging rays of the sun.

Tip #3: Go At Your Own Pace

Besides adding a facial oil to your routine, you can try easing yourself into things with oil-infused products, like Avocado Nourishing Hydration Mask. This creamy face mask, which contains Avocado Oil, helps seal in moisture to prevent water loss. It leaves skin feeling soft, replenished and supple. This Kiehl's favourite is suitable for all skin types and can be used up to three times per week for nourished skin.