Facial Oils & acne‑prone skin: Can they co-exist?
Using Facial Oils on oily, acne‑prone or breakout‑prone skin: The real story
When customers ask: “If I have oily skin / acne / breakouts, won’t using a facial oil just make things worse?”
It’s a very valid question. On one hand, the word “oil” triggers the idea of more oil = more breakouts. On the other hand, skin needs lipids; needs moisture; needs barrier support; so oils can play a smart role, if chosen carefully.
In this blog we’ll explore the ‘why’, the ‘how’, the ‘which’, and the ‘why not’ of oils for acne‑prone and oily skin.
Pros
* Helps support skin barrier to reduce moisture loss.
* Can provide emollient, nourishing feel for skin that is “oily but dehydrated” (which is a common condition).
* Choose your product well: light, low‑comedogenic oil (low pore-clogging properties), can work for oily/acne‑prone skin.
* While oils are not a ‘cure’ for acne, when chosen wisely they can support those with oily/combination/breakout‑prone skin types, particularly when used as part of a tailored skincare routine.
Cons
* Some oils may clog pores or exacerbate breakouts.
* An oil that works for one person may cause reaction in another.
* Heavy textures or inappropriate use may block exfoliation or interfere with treatment actives.
* Mis‑matched oil with skin type (oily skin + thick occlusive oil) = higher risk of problem.
Why might oils help, even for oily/acne‑prone skin?
1. Provides barrier and lipid support
* Oils can act as a barrier (occlusive/emollient) to reduce transepidermal water loss, meaning they help skin retain moisture.
* If oily/acne‑prone skin has been overly stripped (via strong cleansers, actives, etc.), the barrier can become compromised; a gentle oil might help restore some equilibrium.
2. Mimicking skin’s natural lipids & balancing sebum
* Some oils mimic the skin’s natural sebum or offer beneficial fatty acids (eg. linoleic acid). Some research suggests acne‑prone skin may have lower linoleic acid on the surface of the skin’s lipid layer, meaning oils rich in linoleic acid, such as Camelina Oil, Grapeseed OIl, Prickly Pear, Rosehip Seed oil and Apricot Kernal Oil, to name just a few, could theoretically help.
* Applying a light oil which your skin tolerates may reduce the skin’s over‑production of its own sebum, and because the barrier is less stressed, thereby reduce “reactive oiliness”.
Why oils might cause problems for oily/acne‑prone skin
1. Comedogenicity (pore‑clogging risk)
* Some oils have a higher potential to clog pores and thus may trigger or worsen breakouts in susceptible individuals. The term “comedogenic” refers to ingredients likely to cause clogging. (Refer to list below for details of some known and less known oils and their comodogenic value).
2. Occlusion & dirt/trap effects
* Oils can potentially trap other materials (make‑up, sweat, pollution) in pores if skin is not cleansed properly beforehand. Also, if applying too much oil, or a thick texture at the wrong time (day instead of night) it may sit on top of the skin and impede the skin’s natural exfoliation/turnover.
3. Interaction with active treatments
* If using other treatments such as strong actives (salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, retinoids) for acne, adding a facial oil into the routine may interfere with absorption of those actives or disturb the skin barrier more (if the oil is heavy).
* Heavier oils may make skin feel more obstructed and reactive, especially if the skin is already irritated from treatments.
4. Mis‑match between skin type + oil texture
* Oily/acne‑prone skin doesn’t necessarily benefit from thick, rich oils or butters (which might work on very dry/mature skin). Using the wrong oil for the skin’s needs may worsen the problem.
* Your skin’s current condition: If the barrier is compromised (dryness, irritation), acne‑prone skin may react differently than when the barrier is healthy.
5. Integration into skincare routine
* Use sparingly: a few drops at night and/or day is sufficient. Applying an excess of oil can overwhelm the skin, leading to clogged pores.
* Timing: Some oils might be better used at night when sebum production is lower, or during those seasons when barrier is weaker.
* Other products used (active treatments, exfoliants, cleansers) will impact how the skin responds to oils.
Key practical factors & how to choose wisely: what’s appropriate for acne-prone & oily skin?
A quick guide to choosing the right oils (and avoiding the wrong ones!) if you have oily, acne-prone or breakout-sensitive skin.
LOW COMEDOGENIC OILS
Best for oily/acne-prone skin. Light, fast-absorbing, low risk of clogged pores.
| Oil Name | Comedogenic Rating | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Hemp Seed Oil | 0 | Balances oil, high in linoleic acid |
| Squalane (plant-based) | 0 | Lightweight, mimics skin’s sebum |
| Argan Oil | 0 | Nourishing, rich in Vitamin E |
| Camellia (Kissi) Oil * | 0 | Lightweight, nourishing, protective and moisturising |
| Camelina Oil * | 0 | Lightweight, easily absorbed |
| Grapeseed Oil * | 1 | Tightens pores, antioxidant-rich |
| Rosehip Oil * | 1 | Supports scar fading, rich in vitamin A |
| Safflower Oil * | 1 | Suitable for all skin types, incl. those prone to blemishes |
| Sunflower Oil (non-comedogenic variety) * | 0-1 | Soothing, high in linoleic acid |
| Prickly Pear Oil * | 0-1 | High content of beneficial compounds (vitamin E, fatty acids, and antioxidants) |
| Neem Oil | 1-2 | Antibacterial, supports acne healing |
| Rice Bran Oil * | 2 | Rich in antioxidants, lightweight, moisturises and brightens |
| Tamanu Oil * | 2 | Rich in fatty acids, anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties |
| Apricot Kernal Oil * | 2 | Nourishing and anti-inflammatory properties |
| Jojoba Oil | 2 | Regulates sebum, similar to skin’s own oil |
MODERATE COMEDOGENIC OILS
Use with caution. May work for some, but can clog pores in acne-prone skin.
| Oil Name | Comedogenic Rating | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Avocado Oil | 2-3 | Great for dry skin; heavier feel |
| Olive Oil *** | 2-3 | Antioxidant-rich but thick and heavy |
| Almond Oil (Sweet) ** | 2-3 | Soothing, but may congest some skin |
| Jojoba Oil | 2 | Tolerated by many, but not all |
HIGH COMEDOGENIC OILS
AVOID for Acne-Prone Skin. High risk of clogged pores, breakouts, and congestion.
| Oil Name | Comedogenic Rating | Why to Avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Coconut Oil | 4-5 | Thick, heavy, blocks pores |
| Cocoa Butter | 4 | Too rich for acne-prone skin |
| Wheat Germ Oil | 5 | Very pore-clogging |
| Flaxseed Oil | 4 | Spoils easily, high clogging potential |
| Soybean Oil | 4 | Can cause congestion in oily skin types |
* = found in LivMeraki natural skincare Facial Oils
** = found only in Facial Oil for skin prone to redness
*** = found only in Facial Oil for normal skin
Tips for Using Oils on Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
* Less is more. Use just a drop or two.
* Apply on damp skin for better absorption and to seal in hydration.
* Use at night to avoid extra shine during the day.
* Avoid oils high in oleic acid; acne-prone skin benefits more from oils rich in linoleic acid.
* Never skip cleansing; oil doesn’t replace washing your face.
* Pair with water-based serums or actives for balanced routines.
* It’s recommended to do a patch test for any new oil, especially for acne‑prone skin. Use a small area (jaw line/back of ear) for 3‑4 days. Observe for any changes.
* When using oils they should be part of a balanced skincare routine: (i) cleanse appropriately (removing sebum, dirt, oil); (ii) treat (if using acne actives); (iii) moisturise; (iv) apply oil. If applying an oil at night, ensure it is well absorbed (excess removed if necessary) and compatible with your skin type.
* Lifestyle, hormones, diet and environment all play roles in acne. Oil alone is rarely the sole factor.
Our Facial Oil formulation journey
LivMeraki natural skincare has a range of Facial Oils https://livmeraki.com/product/facial-oil/, formulated for different skin types, including: mature, problem/troubled skin, skin prone to redness and normal skin.
This range has been intentionally designed using low comodogenic, lightweight, fast absorbing and minimal residue oils to maximise the beneficial properties of the product whilst producing a wonderful texture and beneficial results for your complexion.
* When formulating the Facial Oils, extensive research was undertaken to investigate both the organic botanicals used and the oils selected for use in each ‘recipe’. For example, we selected grapeseed for its lightweight, low comedogenic potential and high linoleic acid content, making it suitable even for oily/acne‑prone skin.
* We discounted coconut oil, cocoa butter, etc., for oily/acne‑prone products as these have higher comedogenic ratings, can feel heavier on the skin and have a lower absorption rate.
* To aid in deciding which Facial Oil might be suitable for your skin type, LivMeraki natural skincare has tester products available to patch test at in-person events. Additionally we offer for sale a ‘mini’ take-away trial size Facial Oil so that our customers with acne‑prone skin feel comfortable trying the product.
In conclusion
* Not all oils are the same. Oils differ in fatty‑acid composition, comedogenic rating, texture and absorption
* Just because you have oily skin doesn’t mean you must avoid oils, but you must choose wisely.
* Always patch‑test. Try a few nights on a small area before full face application.
* Look for ‘low‑comedogenic’ oils / light textures, such as Camelina, Camellia or Grapeseed.
* Use oils as part of a full routine; they are not a substitute for cleansing or actives when needed.
* If you’re in active breakout mode or using strong acne treatments, consider using the oil less frequently or skip until things stabilise.
* If you notice increased breakouts, stop use and revisit your treatment. Accept that skin responses vary; even the best‑selected oil might not suit everyone.
* Consider adjusting how you use oils depending on seasons: eg., skip in very humid high‑sebum summer months; use in cooler/drier transitions when barrier support matters more.
Want to try a Facial Oil for your skin type? Explore the range here [https://livmeraki.com/product/facial-oil/] including our specially‑formulated Oil for Problem Skin with product link https://livmeraki.com/product/facial-oil/
Always happy to support you on your skincare journey
Catherine
Founder
LivMeraki natural skincare
Well done