How to Use Facial Oil: Your Step-by-Step Guide for Your New Skincare Routine

Close-up of Pili Ani’s Self-Care Night Recovery Oil & Ageless Concentrate products

Whether you have oily skin or follow a consistent skincare routine, facial oil is a reliable way to achieve a healthy glow.

We can go on and on about what this fantastic product can do, from locking in moisture to brightening and rejuvenating dull skin. Facial oil and foundation also pair well together. Simply dab a few drops on your face before applying foundation, or mix the two products for a dewy finish.

But, for the best results, it’s important to know when and how to use facial oil. Read on to learn more about this powerful skincare essential and how to make the most of it.

Before Applying  Facial Oil

When deciding on the order of your skincare products, it’s best to apply the essentials according to their consistency. Always use the lightest products first and the thickest ones last. A proper routine means preparing your skin, using your other products, and ending with facial oil, the thickest and longest-absorbing of your skincare products.

Prep Your Skin

A woman applying cleanser on her face

While it can be tempting to skip this step, especially if you're in a hurry, you should always prepare your skin first. Start by cleansing your face with a facial wash to remove impurities and excess oil -both possible culprits of clogged pores and dull skin.

A clean face makes all the difference. But because we do it often, a common mistake is using a harsh cleanser, which can damage the skin barrier. So, make sure you're also using the right kind of facial wash based on your skin type. A foaming cleanser, for instance, is lightweight and great for oily and combination skin.

You can also choose to exfoliate, though this depends on your skin's condition and should be done twice or thrice a week at most. Exfoliating helps remove dead skin cells, unclogs pores, evens skin tone, and improves skin texture. 

Finally, use a toner to balance your skin's pH level. It should contain ingredients suited to your specific needs. For example, combination skin can benefit from a toner rich in antioxidants. 

How to Use  Facial Oil

Once you've prepared your skin, apply a few drops of facial oil to your palm. Be careful not to overdo it—the last thing you want is for your face to appear greasy and suffocate your skin. 

For better absorption, you can rub your hands together to warm the oil. Then, gently dab or pat the facial oil onto your face. This allows for even distribution and a more natural, radiant finish.

Other Techniques to Try 

While we recommend gently patting the facial oil onto your face, you can use other techniques to apply it.

Massage the oil into your skin using your hands, a gua sha stone or a jade roller. Whichever tool you choose, it's important to spread the product upward and outward. Start at your neck, then apply the product toward your forehead.

If you have dry skin, we recommend combining your facial oil with a moisturizer. This layering technique creates a hydrating barrier that locks in moisture and leaves your skin feeling soft and supple. It can also promote lymphatic drainage, which is part of your body's natural detoxification process.

When to Use Face Oil In Your Skincare Routine

Facial oil is a multi-tasking wonder, but timing your application can optimize its benefits. For the best results, remember to follow the product's instructions and consider your skin type.

Face Oils & Your Skin Type

Choosing the right facial oil can transform your skincare routine. With countless options available, it can be challenging to know what to look for. Here are some essential qualities to consider when selecting a facial oil.

  1. Hydration Without Greasiness

A great facial oil should provide balanced hydration without leaving a greasy residue. Look for lightweight formulas that absorb quickly into the skin, ensuring it feels soft and supple. Pili Ani’s Self-Care Night Recovery Oil, or SCNRO, with its base of Pili and Elemi Oils, offers the perfect level of hydration that suits dry, oily, and combination skin alike. Coconut and Rosehip oils are great for addressing scaliness, eczema, and other dry skin issues but can be quite heavy for some skin types.

  1. Nourishing Ingredients

Facial oils enriched with antioxidants, vitamins, and essential fatty acids are ideal for nourishing the skin deeply. Ingredients like Pili and Elemi oils are packed with these beneficial compounds. They work together to promote a healthy, radiant complexion. Like Elemi Oil, Jojoba oil and Olive oil are also ideal for those with oily skin with their antimicrobial properties that combat acne-causing bacteria.

  1. Anti-Aging Benefits

If anti-aging is a priority, choose a facial oil rich in antioxidants to combat free radicals and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. SCNRO’s high antioxidant content supports skin elasticity and firmness, making it an excellent choice for mature skin. While rosehip oil is also known for its anti-aging properties, it may not provide the same level of hydration for drier skin types compared to SCNRO.

  1. Soothing Properties

For sensitive or reactive skin, it's crucial to select oils with natural anti-inflammatory properties. These ingredients can help soothe and calm the skin, reducing redness and irritation. Lavender oil and Elemi oil are known for their soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.

  1. Non-Comedogenic

Opt for non-comedogenic oils to prevent clogged pores and breakouts. These formulas help maintain clear, healthy skin by balancing oil production. Pili Ani’s SCNRO is non-comedogenic, making it ideal for acne-prone and oily skin.

  1. Natural and Ethical

Choosing products that are free from harmful chemicals, parabens, and synthetic fragrances is essential for overall skin health. Pili Ani is committed to using sustainably sourced, natural ingredients. 

Day vs. Night Use

Pili Ani Self-Care Night Recovery Oil (15ml), $40. Shop here.

Choosing the right facial oil for day or night use depends on your skin type and specific needs. Nighttime oils are typically richer and more nourishing, perfect for overnight repair, while daytime oils should be lightweight and quick-absorbing, providing hydration and protection without interfering with makeup.

Simply put, you can use the product in the morning or evening, whichever suits your preference. For a consistent boost, you can apply it twice daily. Remember, a few drops go a long way, and facial oil should always be the last step in your skincare regimen.

More Helpful Tips for Using Facial Oil

If you’ve just bought facial oil or you’re already using it, here are some tips to help the product work its magic on your skin. 

  • Wait for your other skincare products to dry. Otherwise, you’ll experience pilling, which is when tiny beads form on your skin's surface after applying products.
  • Do a patch test. Apply face oil to the inside of your arm 24 hours before using it and check for any adverse reactions such as irritation.
  • Keep using moisturizer. Facial oil locks in moisture, which makes it different from serums and moisturizers.
  • Store your face oils properly. Keep them away from heat, direct sunlight, and air. These elements can break down  key ingredients, shortening a product’s shelf life.
  • Achieve Healthy & Glowing Skin with Facial Oil

    Including facial oil in your skincare routine can be a game-changer. With just a few drops, nourishing ingredients penetrate your skin, hydrating and brightening it while addressing other concerns like dryness and premature signs of aging.

    Complete your skincare routine with our powerful facial oils. Shop for skincare essentials at PiliAni.com today.