How to choose a facial oil: tips for different skin types

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How to choose a facial oil: simple tips for every skin type
08:30, 23.01.2025

Choosing a facial oil depends on your skin type so that it actually helps, not harms.



Consider recommendations for different skin types based on the properties of oils.

Normal and combination skin

Normal skin rarely suffers from acne, so a wide range of oils is suitable for it. The main thing is to avoid "heavy" oils with high comedogenicity, which can clog pores. A good choice would be:

  • jojoba
  • sweet almond oil
  • argan oil
  • grape seed oil
  • rosehip seed oil
  • shea butter
  • coconut oil
  • olive oil
  • apricot oil

Tip: Grape seed oil has a dual action: it helps reduce oily shine and acne, and it also moisturises the skin.

Dry skin

Dry skin can itch, flake and feel tight. Choose oils that are high in oleic acid - they absorb quickly and infuse moisture. Suitable options:

  • avocado oil
  • shea butter
  • cocoa butter
  • macadamia oil
  • argan oil
  • hazelnut oil
  • olive oil
  • castor oil

Tip: During the colder seasons, look for products with macadamia or arctic berry oil - they will protect your skin from cold temperatures.

Oily skin

For oily skin, it's important to use "dry" oils that don't leave an oily sheen. Such oils help regulate sebum production and do not clog pores. Recommended:

  • hemp seed oil
  • jojoba oil
  • moringa
  • grape seed and apricot seed oils
  • safflower oil
  • refined sunflower oil

Acne prone skin

If you have acne-prone skin, choose light "dry" oils that are non-comedogenic and contain high levels of linoleic acid. You can also try rare antibacterial oils. Suitable:

  • shea butter
  • argan oil
  • moringa
  • neem oil
  • watermelon seed oil

Tip: Buy mini versions of oils to test them on your skin. No one knows in advance which ingredient might cause irritation.

Sensitive skin

Sensitive skin is prone to redness and irritation, so choose soothing and nourishing oils. These contain protective fats that reduce irritation. The best options are:

  • jojoba oil
  • argan oil
  • shea butter
  • avocado oil

Tip: For sensitive skin, avoid products with essential oils as they can cause a reaction. Favour simple formulas without aggressive ingredients.

Key tips

  1. Check for comedogenicity
    Find out in advance if your chosen oil will clog pores and if it is suitable for your skin type.
  2. Start with tests
    Buy samples or mini versions to make sure there are no negative reactions.
  3. Consider the season
    In the colder seasons, more "thick" oils are suitable, in the summer - light "dry" versions.
  4. Look at the composition
    If you have problematic or sensitive skin, avoid essential oils and unnecessary additives that can cause irritation.

Once you've found the right oil, it will be a great care partner: it will soften, hydrate and make your skin more radiant and healthy-looking.

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Maria Grynevych

Maria Grynevych, project manager, journalist, co-author of Guidebook Sacred Mountains of the Dnieper Region, Lecture Course: Cult Topography of the Middle Dnieper Region.