Applying oil to oily skin: good idea or bad idea?

Oil for oily skin: at first glance, the combination may seem unnatural, even downright frightening. When skin is already shiny , sebum is excess , and enlarged pores are acting up, why would anyone apply a vegetable oil to their face ? Yet, this is one of the most persistent misconceptions in natural cosmetics .

This fear stems from a common confusion between shiny skin and well-hydrated skin . At Nohèm, we love to debunk beauty myths ! In reality, certain light, non-comedogenic oils are true allies for temperamental or oily skin . When chosen and used correctly, they help regulate sebum , balance the epidermis , mattify the complexion , and reduce imperfections , all without leaving a greasy residue .

Ready to change your perspective on your natural skincare routine ? We'll explain how to choose the best natural facial oil , which oils to prioritize, and how to apply them correctly to problem areas for visible and lasting results.

What is oily skin?

Before you know if a skincare oil for oily skin is right for you, you need to understand how your face works. Too often, people try to "stripping" shiny areas with harsh astringent products, when your skin is simply crying out for help!

Oily skin is characterized by:

• Excess sebum causes shine and enlarged pores

• a tendency towards imperfections , pimples or blackheads

• a shiny T-zone (forehead, nose, chin)

Understanding these signs is essential to choosing a suitable , light and sebum-regulating oil that respects the skin while moisturizing it and reducing skin imbalances .

What characterizes oily skin?

Oily skin is characterized by an excessive production of sebum. Sebum is the oily substance produced by the sebaceous glands to protect the skin. But when this process becomes excessive, the balance is disrupted.

The telltale signs:

• A persistent shine , especially on the T-zone (forehead, nose, chin).

• Enlarged and clearly visible pores .

• A thicker skin texture.

• A tendency towards imperfections (blackheads, pimples, microcysts).

A closer look at the hydrolipidic film:

Imagine an invisible shield made of water and lipids (fats). This is what protects your skin from external aggressors and prevents water from evaporating. The problem isn't fat itself, but rather an excess or an imbalance of it!

Why do some skin types produce more sebum than others?

We are not all equal when it comes to sebum! Production varies depending on several factors:

• Internal factors: Hormones (thanks to puberty, the cycle or stress!), genetics and age.

• External factors: Pollution, climate, a diet that is too rich, but above all... an overly aggressive routine .

If you use cleansers that are too harsh, your skin feels attacked. Its response? To produce even more sebum to protect itself. That's the rebound effect!

Why does my skin look shiny during the day?

Shine is often a sign of dehydrated skin . Deprived of water, the skin compensates by secreting oil. Using a sebum-regulating plant oil sends a "stop" signal to your sebaceous glands: "It's okay, we're protected, you can rest!"

Did you know that?

👉 Oily skin does not necessarily mean well-hydrated skin. Skin can be dying of thirst while still being shiny.

Can you use a facial oil if you have oily skin?

The answer is a resounding YES! But be careful, it's not about putting just any oil on your face. The trick is to select light, non-comedogenic, and sebum-regulating oils that can mimic natural sebum .

These lightweight oils will stabilize your skin , nourish and hydrate it without clogging pores or leaving a greasy residue. When used correctly, they become an essential ally for regulating sebum , reducing imperfections , and bringing comfort and radiance to your oily or combination skin .

Oily skin and oil: a false bad idea

A suitable oil will not clog your pores; on the contrary, it will:

• Dissolve accumulated impurities and excess sebum

• Provide essential fatty acids that your skin desperately lacks.

• Rebalancing sebum production for less shiny skin over time

This approach may seem paradoxical, but it's precisely what differentiates an oil for oily skin from a "classic" oil that's too thick. Choosing the right oil transforms your routine into a nourishing, soothing, and regulating experience.

Why some oils don't make the skin greasy

The difference lies in their chemical composition and texture :

• Comedogenic oils : heavy, thick and occlusive oils, they can clog pores and cause pimples.
  Example: coconut oil , ideal for dry skin but to be avoided for oily skin.

• Non-comedogenic oils : fluid and light, they penetrate the skin instantly without leaving a greasy film.
  Examples: jojoba, hazelnut, grape seeds .

• Sebum-regulating oils : they "reprogram" the skin to limit sebum production and provide a lasting matte finish. Examples: jojoba, nigella, hemp .

In summary, not all oils are created equal: the secret is to choose the right texture and composition , adapted to your skin type and problem areas .

The benefits of facial oils

Light vegetable oils offer numerous benefits to oily or combination skin :

• Light hydration : they seal water into the tissues without weighing down the face.

• Protection : they strengthen the hydrolipidic film , this natural barrier that protects against external aggressions.

• Soothing : they calm redness and irritation, ideal for skin that is overheated or prone to imperfections.

• Purifying and antibacterial action : certain oils, such as nigella or diluted tea tree , help to limit pimples and blackheads.

• Sustainable balance : in the long term, a well-chosen oil helps the skin reduce its sebum production , thus decreasing shine and excess oil.

💡 Practical tip: apply a few drops of oil to the targeted areas (cheeks or T-zone), then massage gently so that the skin absorbs the product without leaving a greasy film.

Which oil(s) should I use for oily skin?

This is where choosing the right organic skincare oil for oily skin becomes crucial. Not all oils are suitable for oily skin: some can clog pores and accentuate imperfections, while others will regulate sebum , mattify the complexion , and hydrate without leaving a greasy film.

To achieve a clear, balanced and luminous complexion , it is essential to select light, non-comedogenic oils suitable for oily or combination skin , and to integrate them correctly into your daily routine.

How to choose a vegetable oil for oily skin

To choose the best natural facial oil for oily skin , three main criteria should guide your selection:

1. Dry or light texture : It should penetrate the skin quickly, without leaving a greasy film or sticky feeling.

2. Low comedogenicity index (0 or 1) : This ensures that the oil will not clog pores and will limit the appearance of pimples and blackheads.

3. Rich in unsaturated fatty acids , especially linoleic acid: these fatty acids help to regulate sebum , nourish the skin and maintain its natural balance .

💡 Tip: Some oils, like jojoba , are particularly effective because they mimic the composition of human sebum , sending a signal to the skin to reduce its excessive sebum production .

The best plant oils for oily skin

Here is our “dream team” for a matte, clear and radiant complexion, without an oily film:

• Jojoba Oil : The queen of oils for oily skin! Its composition is almost identical to human sebum. It regulates sebum production , mattifies the skin , and prevents the appearance of minor imperfections.

• Hazelnut Oil : Very penetrating, it is perfect for tightening enlarged pores and providing a feeling of lightness.

• Grape Seed Oil : Fluid and antioxidant , it nourishes the skin without weighing it down and helps to preserve the radiance of the complexion .

• Hemp Oil : Ideal for combination skin, it soothes redness and helps to balance dry and oily areas .

• Nigella oil : The best for problem skin thanks to its purifying and cleansing properties, ideal for skin prone to pimples or blackheads.

• Frankincense Oil : Regenerating and toning, it improves the radiance of the complexion and helps to firm the skin .

• Camelina oil : Fine and light, it provides elasticity and comfort without clogging pores, perfect for sensitive oily skin.

Which natural oil is best for oily skin with imperfections?

If you have pimples, blackheads or minor inflammations , opt for the Jojoba + Nigella combination :

• Jojoba regulates sebum production and mattifies the skin.

• Nigella purifies, cleanses and limits the appearance of new imperfections.

This is the winning duo for clear, balanced and luminous skin , even for acne-prone or combination skin.

💡 Tip: apply the oil only to problem areas (T-zone or inflamed areas) to avoid weighing down the rest of the face.

And essential oils for oily skin: good or bad idea?

Essential oils (EOs) are concentrated sources of powerful, natural active ingredients. When chosen carefully, they can boost the effectiveness of your oil for oily skin by targeting imperfections, regulating sebum, and soothing irritations.

But be careful: essential oils are not vegetable oils! They are very concentrated and require some precautions to be used safely on the face.

Essential oils suitable for oily skin

Certain essential oils are particularly recommended for oily and blemish-prone skin , thanks to their purifying, regulating, and soothing properties:

• Tea tree oil : purifying and antibacterial, it's a great ally for blemish-prone skin . It helps reduce pimples and blackheads.

• True lavender : healing and calming, it helps to repair small marks and irritations after sebum or acne flare-ups.

• Rosewood : toning and regulating, it helps to balance sebum and firm the skin.

• Lemongrass : astringent and refreshing, ideal for giving an immediate mattifying effect .

• Neroli : soothing and relaxing, perfect for stressed or reactive skin.

💡 Tip: Add 1 to 2 drops of essential oil to your facial vegetable oil for oily skin to avoid overloading the skin and preventing irritation.

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Precautions for use

Even though they are natural, essential oils remain highly concentrated . Here are the golden rules for safe use:

1. Always dilute in a vegetable oil (jojoba, hazelnut, grapeseed…): 1 to 2 drops maximum per application.
2. Do not apply pure essential oils to the skin : direct contact can cause redness and irritation.
3. Pregnant women, breastfeeding women and children : some essential oils are prohibited, seek medical advice before use.
4. Skin test required : apply a drop in the crook of the elbow 24 hours before use to check tolerance.

💡 Tip: always start with localized use on the T-zone or on imperfections, then gradually expand if your skin tolerates the synergy well.

How to properly apply oil to the face

1. Cleansing : always start with a gentle cleanser , such as a sulfate-free bar soap or a facial gel suitable for oily skin. This removes impurities and prepares the skin to receive the oil.
2. Dosage : You don't need much! 3 to 5 drops are enough for the whole face. Too much oil can remain on the surface and give that unpleasant greasy feeling.
3. Heating : Rub the oil between your hands to warm it. This makes it more fluid and easier to absorb into the skin .
4. Massage : Apply in circular motions , from the inside to the outside of the face. Focus on the cheeks or dry areas, and gently massage the T-zone to avoid a shiny effect.
5. Penetration : Leave the oil for 2 to 3 minutes to allow it to be fully absorbed before applying makeup or proceeding to the next step in your routine.

💡 Tip: For oily skin , opt for a light, non-comedogenic oil such as jojoba or hazelnut , which regulate sebum and mattify the complexion.

When should I use it: morning or evening?

💡 Tip for combination skin : apply the oil only to the cheeks and dry areas. The T-zone, which is often oilier, should be kept very light to avoid shine.

How to incorporate oils into your daily routine

The order of the steps is crucial to maximizing the effects of your oil for oily skin :

1. Gentle cleansing : removes makeup, sebum and impurities.
2. Hydrosol : a few sprays of lavender, peppermint or rose to moisturize the skin. The oil absorbs better on slightly damp skin.
3. Aqueous serum (optional): hydrates and provides targeted active ingredients.
4. Vegetable oil : apply your chosen oil to regulate sebum and nourish the skin.
5. Light cream (if needed): for sensitive skin or very dry areas.

💡 Tip: Opt for sebum-regulating and non-comedogenic oils to avoid any risk of shine or imperfections.

Oily, combination or sensitive skin: adapt your oil

Which oils are best for combination skin?

Combination skin is often a puzzle: oily on the nose and T-zone, dry on the cheeks and temples.
Nohèm recommends “multi-oiling” :

• T-zone : a few drops of jojoba oil to regulate sebum

• Cheeks and dry areas : use a more nourishing oil such as sweet almond or argan oil.

Do you have balanced but sensitive skin?

Even if you don't have excess sebum, your skin can still be fragile and reactive. Hemp or camelina oils are ideal: they strengthen the skin barrier without causing irritation.

Sensitive skin: gentleness above all!

• Avoid using overly strong essential oils at first.

• Opt for light and soothing oils, such as jojoba or camelina.

• Always massage in gentle circular motions to avoid irritating the skin

💡 Final tip: a suitable oil for oily skin , well chosen and correctly applied, can transform your routine: less shine, hydrated, balanced and clear skin , and a matte complexion all day long.

A closer look at Nohèm facial oils

If you're looking for effective, ready-to-use facial oils, turn to expert, organic, and natural formulations. At Nohèm, each product is designed to respect the balance of temperamental skin, hydrate without leaving a greasy residue, and regulate sebum production while providing comfort and radiance .

Fabulous Oil with Jojoba Oil

Discover Nohèm's Fabulous Oil

A true Swiss Army knife for dehydrated skin! Its high jojoba oil content makes it the perfect ally to regulate sebum production and restore natural balance.

• Lightweight texture and fast absorption: leaves a velvety finish, without a greasy film
• Targeted hydration: nourishes the skin where it needs it
• Mattified and clear skin: ideal for shiny areas and enlarged pores

This oil is perfect for incorporating into your facial care routine to fight aging, morning or evening, alone or in addition to your usual serum.

Ayurvedic oil based on black seed oil

Discover Nohèm's Ayurvedic oil

For acne-prone or blemish-prone skin, this anti-inflammatory oil is a true treasure of natural skincare . Nigella (black cumin) has purifying and soothing properties, ideal for calming inflammation and reducing blemishes.

• Deeply cleanses : fights imperfections and excess sebum

• Immediate soothing effect : reduces redness and feelings of discomfort

• Light and easily absorbed texture : ideal for oily skin that wants to stay balanced

This oil quickly becomes a must-have in your facial routine for oily and combination skin , targeting problem areas while leaving skin soft and clear.

💡 Nohèm Tip : For best results, apply a few drops to clean, slightly damp skin, then gently massage in circular motions. You can combine Fabulous Oil and Ayurvedic Oil as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions about Oils and Oily Skin (FAQ)

Is it safe to apply oil to oily skin every day?

Yes, absolutely! Contrary to popular belief, oily skin doesn't need to be "dried out," but balanced. Regularity and a regulating action are what allow the hydrolipidic film to stabilize over time.

Application tip: Incorporate it into your daily routine. Ideally, start with an application in the evening : this allows the oil to work in harmony with your skin's nighttime regeneration cycle, so you'll see noticeable results as soon as you wake up.

Why does my skin become less oily with a suitable oil?

It may seem paradoxical , but adding "good oils" is the best way to "reassure" your skin. When oily skin is stripped of its natural oils, it reacts by producing even more oil to defend itself.

By providing your skin with quality fatty acids, you send a comfort signal: it no longer needs to produce excess sebum to protect itself from external aggressors. The result? It regulates itself naturally and shines much less day by day.

Can oil replace a day cream?

For many oily skin types, the answer is yes ! A well-chosen vegetable oil provides all the lipids necessary for skin suppleness.

However, a distinction must be made between nutrition (fat) and hydration (water):

• If your skin also lacks moisture (feeling tight despite the oily appearance), the trick is to apply an aloe vera gel just before your oil.

• The gel provides water, and the oil "seals in" this hydration while nourishing.

How does your skin feel after applying an oil?

The experience should remain sensory and pleasant. If the oil is suited to your skin type (so-called "dry" oils like jojoba or hazelnut), you should not feel any greasy or sticky residue.

After application, your skin should be:

• Soft and supple to the touch.

• Matte finish with a "peach skin" look.

• Radiant, but absolutely not "shiny" .
  
  

Choosing the right oil for balanced oily skin

In short, oil for oily skin isn't a myth; it's an ultra-effective cosmetic reality! By choosing non-comedogenic plant oils like jojoba or hazelnut, you give your face the tools it needs to self-regulate. Say goodbye to that mirror-like effect and hello to a radiant, matte complexion.

Don't forget: nature often has the solution, you just have to know how to listen to it.

Ready to go natural? Discover our selection of organic oils made from carefully selected plant oils and find the one that will steal your heart!