Once thought to be only for dry, mature skin, face oils have become one of the biggest skincare staples in recent years, but also one of the most misunderstood! And with so much conflicting advice online, it's no wonder so many of us aren't quite sure how or when to use a face oil, or even if it’s necessary at all!
The truth is, the right face oil can transform the way your skin looks and feels. Really. Whether you're looking to boost hydration, strengthen your skin barrier, calm irritation or achieve that healthy, radiant glow, understanding how face oils work is the key to getting the best results. Keep reading for everything you need to know.
Firstly, exactly what does a face oil actually do?
Despite the name, face oils don't simply "add oil" to your skin. Instead, they help to seal in hydration, strengthen your skin barrier and reduce moisture loss, leaving skin feeling softer, smoother and more comfortable. Many are also rich in essential fatty acids, antioxidants and vitamins that help nourish the skin while supporting a healthy, radiant complexion.
It is important to understand, however, that oil and hydration are not quite the same thing. While your serums deliver active ingredients and your moisturiser hydrates the skin, a face oil helps lock all that goodness in! This is why oils often work best as the final nourishing layer in a well-rounded routine rather than as a replacement for every other skincare step. Think of a face oil as the finishing touch to your skincare routine!
Do you need a face oil in your routine?
Not everyone needs one, but many people can benefit from adding one to their routine.
A face oil can be especially helpful if you have:
- Dry or dehydrated skin
- Mature or menopausal skin
- A compromised skin barrier
- Skin that feels tight after cleansing
- Dull or lacklustre skin
- Skin exposed to harsh winter weather or air conditioning
If your skin often feels comfortable, balanced and well hydrated, you may not need to use a face oil every day. But during winter, after travel or whenever your skin feels particularly dry or stressed, it can provide an extra boost of nourishment.
Are you applying your face oil in the right order?
This is probably the question we get asked most!
Face oil should almost always be the last step in your skincare routine, after your serum and moisturiser. Why? Because oil creates a protective layer over the skin, helping to reduce moisture loss. If you apply it before your water-based serums or moisturiser, it can make it harder for those products to absorb properly.
A simple daily routine would include a cleanser, toner (if using), serum, moisturiser and finally your face oil.
Should you use a face oil in the morning or at night?
The answer is... either! Many people prefer applying a face oil at night, allowing it to nourish and replenish the skin while they sleep. However, if your skin feels particularly dry or you're after a healthy, radiant glow, a lightweight face oil can also work beautifully during the day beneath sunscreen and makeup. You can even add a drop or two to your makeup!
Can oily or acne-prone skin use a face oil?
Absolutely! This is one of the biggest misconceptions about face oils sadly! So many people with oily, combination or blemish prone skin miss out of this essential step because they believe a face oil will only exacerbate their oily, reactive skin.
The key is choosing a lightweight, non-comedogenic formula that's suited to your skin type! In fact, stripping oily skin with harsh products can often make matters worse, causing the skin to produce even more oil to compensate. The right face oil can actually help support a healthier skin barrier and improve overall skin balance.
Can you use a face oil every day?
Yes. If your skin enjoys it, a face oil can absolutely become part of your daily skincare routine. Some people prefer using it morning and night, while others reserve it for evenings or during winter when their skin needs a little extra nourishment.
The best approach is to listen to your skin!
Can you use a face oil with retinol?
Yes, and they actually work beautifully together!
Retinol can sometimes leave skin feeling dry or tight, particularly when you're first introducing it into your routine. Applying a face oil after your moisturiser can help comfort the skin and reduce moisture loss without affecting your retinol.
It is best not to mix your retinol and facial oil together unless the brand specifically advises doing so, as this can make it harder to control how much retinol you are applying.
If you are new to retinol or your skin is sensitive, introduce it slowly and avoid layering too many active products in the same routine. Facial oil may make the skin feel more comfortable, but it will not prevent irritation caused by using retinol too frequently or at too high a strength.
Can you mix face oil with foundation?
You certainly can! Mixing one small drop of face oil into your liquid foundation can help create a fresher, more radiant finish, particularly if your makeup tends to look dry or cakey during winter. Just don't overdo it, too much oil can reduce the longevity of your makeup.
How many drops should you use?
Remember less is always more. For most people, 2–4 drops is all you need for your face and neck. Using more won't necessarily deliver better results and may simply leave skin feeling greasy
Our favourite face oils (and the ones our customers love too!)
Now that you know how and when to use one, these are three of our favourite formulas for adding softness, nourishment and radiance to the skin.
Phytomer Rosee Soin Radiance Replenishing Oil
If dull, tired-looking skin is your biggest concern, this luxurious botanical oil helps replenish moisture while restoring radiance and leaving skin beautifully soft and luminous.
"I love this product. It makes my skin feel soft and supple and gives it a beautiful glow. I suffer from redness and this helps to soothe my skin. Amazing product." — Jenny
Pevonia De-Stress Escape Aromatic Oil
Perfect for stressed, dehydrated or combination skin, this beautifully aromatic facial oil nourishes without feeling heavy while helping restore comfort and balance.
"Pevonia outdoes itself again! This product is wonderful. With its incredible scent and silky texture, it leaves skin feeling ultra soft and hydrated. It's great for my combination skin and has even helped with the maskne. My skin has never looked better. The De-Stress Escape Oil is my new favourite product!" — Anne E
Pevonia Vitaminic Concentrate
Often described as "liquid gold", this vitamin-rich concentrate is ideal for dry, mature or winter-weary skin, helping restore softness, comfort and a healthy-looking glow.
"I love using Vitaminic Concentrate all year round, however especially in winter. You don't need much to transform dry skin into plump, hydrated, rejuvenated skin." — Donna Dezius
Face oils don't need to be complicated. Once you understand what they do, when to apply them and how they fit into your routine, they can become one of the most rewarding steps in your skincare routine.
Whether you're looking to calm dryness, support your skin barrier, boost radiance or simply achieve a healthier-looking glow, the right face oil can make all the difference!
