How to Use a Face Oil — and Choose the Right One for Your Skin
Last updated 27 June 2026 · 8 min read
A good face oil is one of the simplest ways to make skin look softer, calmer and more radiant, but only if you pick the right one and use it well. If you have ever wondered whether you actually need an oil, how it differs from a serum, or which formula suits your skin, this guide walks you through it.
We will cover what face oils do, how to use one day and night, how to pair an oil with gua sha, and how to choose the right oil for dry, sensitive, mature or dull-looking skin. When you are ready to shop, browse the full natural facial oils collection.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- A face oil is the final step that seals in everything beneath it, helping skin look supple and glowing.
- Oil and serum do different jobs, and most skin types can happily use both.
- Almost anyone can use a face oil daily. The trick is matching the oil to your skin type.
In this article
What Does a Face Oil Actually Do?
A facial oil works as the last layer in your routine. It sits over your serum and moisturiser and helps seal everything in, so the hydration underneath does not evaporate as quickly. The result is skin that looks dewy and feels soft and comfortable rather than tight.
Most natural face oils are rich in plant-derived fatty acids and antioxidants, similar to the lipids your skin already makes. That is why a well-formulated oil feels at home on the skin and absorbs without leaving a heavy film. Lightweight oils can suit oily and combination skin too, so the idea that oils are only for dry skin is one of the biggest myths going around.
QUICK ANSWER
A face oil is the final step that seals in moisture and supports the look of a healthy glow. Applied to slightly damp skin after your serum and moisturiser, it helps skin look radiant and feel soft and comfortable.
Face Oil vs Serum: What Is the Difference?
This is the question we get most, and the short answer is that they are teammates, not rivals.
Serums are usually water-based and carry targeted ingredients, think hyaluronic acid for hydration or vitamin C for radiance. They are designed to sink in and deliver those actives deeper.
Face oils are the seal. They do not penetrate as deeply. Instead they form a soft barrier on top that locks in the serum and moisturiser beneath and leaves a glow.
So if your skin leans dry, dull or mature-looking, the most effective approach is usually serum and oil: serum first to treat, oil last to seal. Browse facial serums to pair with your oil, or head straight to the facial oils collection.
Can You Use a Face Oil Every Day?
Yes. For most people, daily use is where face oils earn their keep. Used consistently, a lightweight oil helps skin look smoother and feel more supple over time.
You can use one in the morning, at night, or both. At night, an oil is a lovely final step to wind down a routine. In the morning, let it absorb fully before you layer SPF or makeup. If your skin is on the oilier side, start with a few nights a week and a featherlight formula, then build up as you see how your skin responds.
How to Choose a Face Oil for Your Skin Type
The best oil is simply the one that matches your skin. Here is how to narrow it down, with a pick for each skin type that links straight through to shop.
If every oil seems to upset your skin, look for fragrance-free, essential-oil-free formulas like this one. It is also a lovely choice for oily and combination skin because it is lightweight and non-comedogenic, so it sits comfortably without feeling greasy.
Dry and dehydrated skin tends to love a richer, comforting oil. Press a couple of drops into slightly damp skin at night to help it feel soft and look replenished by morning.
If firmness and the look of fine lines are your focus, a bakuchiol oil is a gentle, plant-derived option to weave into your evening routine.
For dullness or uneven-looking tone, a vitamin C oil adds a radiance boost. Still deciding? See every option side by side in the facial oils collection.
How to Apply a Face Oil
- Cleanse with a gentle cleanser.
- Optional: tone or mist while skin is still slightly damp.
- Apply a hydrating serum.
- Warm 2 to 3 drops of oil between your palms.
- Press and pat it gently over your face and neck. Do not rub or drag.
- Morning: let it absorb fully before SPF and makeup. Night: finish here.
Before or after moisturiser? As a rule, oil goes last because it seals. If you prefer, you can also press a drop or two into your moisturiser to combine the two in one step, which is handy for time-poor mornings.
How to Use a Face Oil With Gua Sha
Face oils and gua sha are made for each other. The slip from an oil lets the tool glide without tugging. Apply your oil first, then massage using gentle, upward strokes from the centre of the face outward.
A lightweight oil with good slip, like the Barrier Restore Nutrient Oil, works beautifully here. Pair it with the Skin Reformer Gua Sha for a few calming minutes that leave skin looking fresh and awake. Explore more skin tools.
Do Dermatologists Recommend Face Oils?
Face oils are widely embraced as part of a well-rounded routine, particularly non-comedogenic, naturally derived formulas. Oils rich in linoleic acid, like rosehip and jojoba, are popular for their lightweight feel and skin-friendly profile.
As with any skincare, the right formula for you depends on your skin. If you have a specific skin concern, it is always worth chatting to your GP or a skin professional for advice tailored to you.
Shop the Face Oil Edit
The right face oil should leave your skin looking radiant and feeling soft and comfortable. Here are our in-stock picks, or see the full range in the facial oils collection.
Shop the face oil edit
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I use a face oil before or after moisturiser?
After. A face oil is best used as the final step because it helps seal in the moisturiser and serum underneath. You can also press a drop into your moisturiser to combine the two.
Can oily or combination skin use a face oil?
Yes. Lightweight, non-comedogenic oils can suit oily and combination skin. Start with a few drops at night and see how your skin responds.
How many drops of face oil should I use?
Two to three drops is plenty for the whole face and neck. Warm them between your palms and press in gently.
Can I use a face oil under sunscreen or makeup?
Yes. In the morning, apply your oil first and let it absorb fully before layering SPF or makeup.
Which face oil is best for sensitive skin?
A fragrance-free, lightweight oil such as the biobod Barrier Restore Nutrient Oil is a popular choice for sensitive, reactive skin.
Explore more: Shop facial oils, facial serums and clean beauty at VAMS Beauty.
Read more on The VAMS Edit: Calm Down Skin Irritation Quickly: The Sensitive Skin Reset
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