How to Use Oils on Your Face

Download Article
Download Article

Oils are a great addition to your skincare routine. Use oils as a cleaner, serum, or night cream. Choose oils that are appropriate for your skin type and consider adding extra essential oils to receive their wonderful healing properties. Enjoy the natural glow that the oils give your skin!

Method 1
Method 1 of 2:

Using Oils in Your Skincare Routine

Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/bf\/Use-Oils-on-Your-Face-Step-1-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Use-Oils-on-Your-Face-Step-1-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/b\/bf\/Use-Oils-on-Your-Face-Step-1-Version-2.jpg\/aid10959774-v4-728px-Use-Oils-on-Your-Face-Step-1-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Whilst oils have great moisturising properties, they are also effective cleansers. Opt for an oil-based cleanser if you want to clean your skin without stripping it of its natural moisture and oils. Rub the cleanser over your skin in circular motions and then wash it off with water. [1]
    • Sweet almond oil, grapeseed oil, avocado oil, sunflower oil, apricot kernel oil, and argan oil are often the base ingredients in oil-based cleansers.
    • If you notice that your skin starts breaking out after using oils for cleansing, stop using them and use your regular cleanser instead.
    • A gentle foaming cleanser is another great option for sensitive skin. [2]
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/38\/Use-Oils-on-Your-Face-Step-2-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Use-Oils-on-Your-Face-Step-2-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/3\/38\/Use-Oils-on-Your-Face-Step-2-Version-2.jpg\/aid10959774-v4-728px-Use-Oils-on-Your-Face-Step-2-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Once you have washed your face, it is important to use both a moisturiser and a face oil in the morning, as the oil helps to seal the moisturiser into your skin. Place the drops of oil onto your hands and then rub it into the skin using circular motions. Avoid putting the moisturiser over your oil, as this doesn’t allow it to penetrate into your skin. [3]
    • Apply your make-up over the oil to avoid smudging your make-up with the oil.
    • If you have really dry skin, use 4-5 drops of oil. If your skin is very oily, only use 1-2 drops of oil when your face feels dry or tight.
    • You can still use oils if you have cleansed your face with oils.
    Advertisement
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/9\/95\/Use-Oils-on-Your-Face-Step-3-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Use-Oils-on-Your-Face-Step-3-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/9\/95\/Use-Oils-on-Your-Face-Step-3-Version-2.jpg\/aid10959774-v4-728px-Use-Oils-on-Your-Face-Step-3-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    The evening is a great time to apply a facial oil onto your skin, as it gives it a long time to sink in. This is particularly good if you have greasy skin and don’t want an oily sheen on your face during the day. [4]
    • Apply oil to your skin at both morning and night if you want extra-glowy skin.
    • If you have combination skin, simply apply the oil to dry areas. If you have oily skin, skip this step.
    • Apply the oil after cleansing and moisturising.
    4. Advertisement
Quiz

wikiHow Quiz: What Skin Type Do I Have?

Oily, combination, dry, or sensitive—to take the very best care of your face, first you’ve got to know your skin type. Whether it’s acne, flakiness, redness, or oil that’s got you down, we’ll give you all the knowledge you need, and we’ll even recommend our favorite products for your skin type.
1 of 12

Let’s talk about pores. How would you describe yours?

Method 2
Method 2 of 2:

Choosing Oils for Your Skin

Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/e\/e6\/Use-Oils-on-Your-Face-Step-4-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Use-Oils-on-Your-Face-Step-4-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/e\/e6\/Use-Oils-on-Your-Face-Step-4-Version-2.jpg\/aid10959774-v4-728px-Use-Oils-on-Your-Face-Step-4-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    If you have naturally greasy skin, you might notice that oils don’t sink into your skin very well. Jojoba is a great option if you have oily skin, as it is very light and helps to lessen your skin’s natural production of sebum. Over time, this can reduce the oiliness of your skin. [5]
    • Purchase oils from a pharmacy or natural health store.
    • If possible, use organic unrefined oils, as these will have the best moisturising properties.
    • You can add essential oils to jojoba oil to nourish your skin.
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/c\/c2\/Use-Oils-on-Your-Face-Step-5-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Use-Oils-on-Your-Face-Step-5-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/c\/c2\/Use-Oils-on-Your-Face-Step-5-Version-2.jpg\/aid10959774-v4-728px-Use-Oils-on-Your-Face-Step-5-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    These oils help to moisturise your skin and give it a natural glow. Each of these oils are gentle on your skin and won’t clog your pores. This is important, as it helps to prevent your skin from breaking out. [6]
    • Use these oils on your skin by themselves or add a drop of your favourite essential oil to them.
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/b0\/Use-Oils-on-Your-Face-Step-6-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Use-Oils-on-Your-Face-Step-6-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/b\/b0\/Use-Oils-on-Your-Face-Step-6-Version-2.jpg\/aid10959774-v4-728px-Use-Oils-on-Your-Face-Step-6-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    These oils are incredibly popular because they are great for normal and sensitive skin. Rub these oils into your skin every day or at times when your skin is feeling dry. Both of these oils can be used undiluted or mixed with essential oils. [7]
    • The healing properties of these oils are great for lightening and healing scars.
  4. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/e\/e2\/Use-Oils-on-Your-Face-Step-7-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Use-Oils-on-Your-Face-Step-7-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/e\/e2\/Use-Oils-on-Your-Face-Step-7-Version-2.jpg\/aid10959774-v4-728px-Use-Oils-on-Your-Face-Step-7-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    These oils have astringent properties and help to tighten your pores. Dilute these oils at a 1% ratio. Tip 99 drops of a base oil and 1 drop of essential oil into a dropper bottle and shake the bottle to combine the oils.
    • Jojoba oil is a great base oil if you have oily skin.
    • Avoid using any essential oils undiluted, as this can damage your skin.
  5. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/8\/82\/Use-Oils-on-Your-Face-Step-8-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Use-Oils-on-Your-Face-Step-8-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/8\/82\/Use-Oils-on-Your-Face-Step-8-Version-2.jpg\/aid10959774-v4-728px-Use-Oils-on-Your-Face-Step-8-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Lavender has fantastic healing, moisturising, and antiseptic properties. This makes it a great oil for any type of skin. Dilute this oil at a 1% ratio or choose a facial oil that is infused with lavender. Tip 99 drops of a base oil and 1 drop of lavender essential oil into a dropper bottle and shake the bottle to combine the oils. [8]
    • If you have any cuts or wounds on your face, lavender oil is a great healing option, even if you have oily skin.
    • Almond oil and argan oil are great base oils to use with dry or aging skin.
  6. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/5\/51\/Use-Oils-on-Your-Face-Step-9-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Use-Oils-on-Your-Face-Step-9-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/5\/51\/Use-Oils-on-Your-Face-Step-9-Version-2.jpg\/aid10959774-v4-728px-Use-Oils-on-Your-Face-Step-9-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    This essential oil has wonderful anti-bacterial and antiseptic properties. This helps to keep your skin clean and reduces infection. Dilute tea tree oil in a base oil at a 10% ratio to prevent it from burning your skin. Add 90 drops of a base oil and 10 drops of tea tree oil into a bottle to create this ratio. [9]
    • Look for a serum with tea tree oil if you want a ready-made natural solution for acne.
    7. Advertisement

Expert Q&A

Search
Add New Question
  • Question
    What avocado oil does to the skin?
    Alicia Ramos
    Skincare Professional
    Alicia Ramos is a Licensed Esthetician and the owner of Smoothe Denver in Denver, Colorado. She received her license at the School of Botanical & Medical Aesthetics, with training in lashes, dermaplaning, waxing, microdermabrasion, and chemical peels, and now provides skin care solutions to hundreds of clients.
    Alicia Ramos
    Skincare Professional
    Expert Answer
    Avocado oil is rich in vitamins and fatty oils that may help moisturize the skin and promote healing.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 0 Helpful 2
  • Question
    Can I use almond oil on my skin?
    Alicia Ramos
    Skincare Professional
    Alicia Ramos is a Licensed Esthetician and the owner of Smoothe Denver in Denver, Colorado. She received her license at the School of Botanical & Medical Aesthetics, with training in lashes, dermaplaning, waxing, microdermabrasion, and chemical peels, and now provides skin care solutions to hundreds of clients.
    Alicia Ramos
    Skincare Professional
    Expert Answer
    Absolutely! Almonds are heavily rich in vitamin E, which help your body's collagen production. Vitamin E also helps protect your skin against the sun and creates volume beneath the surface of the skin.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 0 Helpful 2
Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
      Advertisement

      Tips

      Submit a Tip
      All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
      Submit
      Thanks for submitting a tip for review!

      You Might Also Like

      The Perfect Skin Care Guide for 11, 12, & 13 Year Olds
      How to
      Clear Dark Knuckles
      How to
      Have an Even Skin Tone All over Your Body
      How to
      Treat a Retinol Burn
      A Dermatologist-Approved Guide to Achieving Spotless Skin
      How and Where to Apply Perfume Oil
      How to
      Begin a Natural Skin Care Regime
      How to
      Make Your Skin Look Younger Naturally
      How to
      Establish an Effective Skincare Routine
      How to
      Get Perfect Beautiful Skin Without Makeup
      How to
      Make a Bedtime Skin Care Routine (Teenage Girls)
      A Complete Guide to Skin Cycling
      Advertisement

      References

      1. ↑ https://www.thecut.com/2016/01/a-beginners-guide-to-beauty-oils.html
      2. ↑ Alicia Ramos. Skincare Professional. Expert Interview. 12 June 2019.
      3. ↑ https://www.refinery29.com/en-us/how-to-use-oil-on-skin#slide-1
      4. ↑ https://www.refinery29.com/en-us/how-to-use-oil-on-skin#slide-6
      5. ↑ https://www.thecut.com/2016/01/a-beginners-guide-to-beauty-oils.html
      6. ↑ https://www.thecut.com/2016/01/a-beginners-guide-to-beauty-oils.html
      7. ↑ https://www.naturallivingideas.com/essential-oils-for-skin/
      8. ↑ https://www.naturallivingideas.com/essential-oils-for-skin/
      9. ↑ https://www.naturallivingideas.com/essential-oils-for-skin/

      About This Article

      Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 21,812 times.

      Did this article help you?

      Advertisement