Introduction
Facial oils are everywhere in skin care. They are promoted for dryness, glow, softness and skin barrier support. But does your skin actually need another bottle of oil?
The answer is more balanced than the marketing may suggest.
Facial oils can be useful. Many work as emollients, which help smooth and soften the outer layer of skin. Some also create a light barrier that slows water loss. However, oil does not add water to the skin in the same way that a water-based moisturiser can.
A face oil is also not essential for everyone. Your skin type, the oil or formula you choose, and the rest of your routine all matter.
Here is what the evidence says about the real face oil benefits, who may find them useful and how to use them without making your routine unnecessarily complicated.
What Does Face Oil Really Do?
The main job of most facial oils is to soften the skin and help reduce moisture loss.
DermNet explains that moisturising products can contain emollients, humectants and occlusives. Emollients help smooth the outer skin layer. Occlusive ingredients create a water-resistant layer that can slow evaporation from the skin. Facial oils can perform some of these emollient and occlusive roles.
This means face oil can be especially useful when skin feels dry, rough or tight.
A 2024 review published in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science found that natural oils can act as moisturising agents, but their effects vary depending on the type of oil and its fatty-acid composition. Some oils appear more supportive of the skin barrier than others.
So, are facial oils good for skin? They can be. They may help skin feel softer, smoother and less dry. But they are not a cure for skin conditions, and more oil is not always better.
Face oil also does not replace sunscreen, and it may not replace a well-formulated moisturiser containing water-binding ingredients.
Are Facial Oils Right for Every Skin Type?
Face oil is optional. Some people may find it helpful, while others may prefer to skip it.
Dry skin often benefits most from added emollient or occlusive products. If your skin feels comfortable with moisturiser alone, however, you do not need to add oil just because it is popular.
People with oily or acne-prone skin should be more selective. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends looking for skin-care products labelled oil-free or non-comedogenic when breakouts are a concern. DermNet also notes that highly occlusive emollients can aggravate acne or folliculitis in some people.
Sensitive skin also needs care. Botanical does not automatically mean gentle. Fragrances and some plant-derived ingredients can cause irritation or allergic contact dermatitis in susceptible people.
The American Academy of Dermatology recommends testing a new leave-on skin product on a small area before adding it to your routine.
It is also worth knowing that essential oils and facial carrier oils are not the same thing. A 2025 systematic review found growing interest in essential oils in skin care but also highlighted the need to consider irritation, sensitisation and formulation safety.
Which Oil Is Best for Your Face Every Day?
There is no single oil that research has shown to be the best choice for every face.
Natural oils contain different fatty acids and other compounds. Reviews of topical oils show that these differences can affect how they interact with the skin barrier. This is one reason choosing an oil by popularity alone is not ideal.
Some common options include:
A 2022 review of jojoba, sweet almond and evening primrose oils found potential benefits but also stressed the importance of formulation quality and the need for more research.
So, which oil is best for your face every day? Choose a product that suits your skin, feels comfortable, has a clear ingredient list and does not cause irritation or breakouts. For sensitive or acne-prone skin, simpler formulas may be easier to assess.
How and When Should You Use Face Oil?
When should you use face oil?
Use face oil when your skin needs extra softness or feels dry and tight. Many people prefer it at night because richer products can feel heavy during the day. A lightweight oil can also be used in the morning if it works well with the rest of your routine.
Should I apply face oil before or after moisturiser?
For a simple routine, moisturiser first and facial oil afterwards is a useful starting point. Water-based moisturisers can provide hydration, while the oil can help soften the surface and reduce water loss.
However, formulas vary. Some facial oils are specifically designed to go before moisturiser. Follow the directions on the product when they differ.
Can I mix face oil with moisturizer?
Yes, some facial oils can be mixed with moisturiser. If the product directions allow it, one or two drops can be mixed into your usual moisturiser for a richer feel.
Applying the products separately gives you more control over how much of each product you use.
Do not mix facial oil into sunscreen. Cancer Council Australia advises using sunscreen according to its directions and applying the correct amount to clean, dry skin. Diluting sunscreen with another product may make correct application harder.
Can I use face oil every day?
Yes, if your skin tolerates it. Daily use is not necessary for everyone. You might use it every night, only during dry weather or just on dry areas.
Stop or reduce use if you notice persistent irritation, clogged pores or worsening breakouts.
Summary: Is Face Oil Hype or a Real Remedy?
Face oil is not just hype, but it is not a skin-care necessity either.
The strongest reason to use one is simple: oils can act as emollients and may help slow moisture loss, which can make dry skin feel softer and smoother. Different oils have different properties, and evidence does not support one universal facial oil for everyone.
If your moisturiser already keeps your skin comfortable, you may not need an extra oil. If you do use one, choose it based on your skin type and the full formulation rather than dramatic marketing claims.
Think of facial oil as an optional finishing step, not a miracle treatment.
Where to Buy Facial Oils in Australia
If facial oil suits your routine, you can explore Facial Oils available through MedCart Australia.
Compare ingredient lists, product directions and suitability for your skin before choosing. People with persistent acne, eczema, dermatitis or unexplained skin reactions should speak with a doctor, pharmacist or dermatologist for individual advice.
Visit MedCart Australia to browse skin-care and wellness products from Australian sellers.
References
- McMullen RL. The benefits and challenges of treating skin with natural oils. International Journal of Cosmetic Science. Published 7 August 2024. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39113309/
- DermNet. Emollients and moisturisers. Author update: 2022. https://dermnetnz.org/topics/emollients-and-moisturisers
- Vaughn AR, Clark AK, Sivamani RK, Shi VY. Natural Oils for Skin-Barrier Repair: Ancient Compounds Now Backed by Modern Science. American Journal of Clinical Dermatology. February 2018. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28707186/
- Blaak J, Staib P. An updated review on efficacy and benefits of sweet almond, evening primrose and jojoba oils in skin care applications. International Journal of Cosmetic Science. First published 25 December 2021; Volume 44, Issue 1, February 2022. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/ics.12758
- American Academy of Dermatology. Moisturizer: Why you may need it if you have acne. Publication date not stated. https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/acne/skin-care/moisturizer
- American Academy of Dermatology. How to test skin care products. Last updated 10 August 2021. https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-secrets/prevent-skin-problems/test-skin-care-products
- Pezantes-Orellana C, German Bermúdez F, Montalvo J, Packer T, Orellana-Manzano A. Evaluating efficacy, safety, and innovation in skin care applications of essential oils: a systematic review. Frontiers in Medicine. Published 21 August 2025. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40917836/
- Cancer Council Australia. Advice on how to choose, apply and store sunscreen. Publication date not stated. https://www.cancer.org.au/cancer-information/causes-and-prevention/sun-safety/sunscreen/advice
