What's The Best Time to Apply Facial Oils?
Facial oils have become a beloved step in many skincare routines, and for good reason. These nutrient-rich elixirs help lock in moisture, support the skin barrier, and deliver a healthy glow that rivals your favorite highlighter. Whether you’re dealing with dryness, dullness, or just want that dewy, lit-from-within look, facial oils can be game changers.
But as with many skincare steps, timing matters. So when’s the best time to apply facial oils? The short answer: it depends on your skin type, routine, and the ingredients you’re using. Don’t worry, we’ll break it down so it’s easy to understand and even easier to incorporate into your day (or night).
Why Facial Oils Matter?
Before we get into the when, let’s talk about the why. Facial oils are typically formulated with plant-based oils like jojoba, rosehip, squalane, and argan. These oils are packed with essential fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins that nourish your skin on a deeper level. They don’t just sit on the surface, they actually help strengthen your skin’s moisture barrier and improve elasticity.
“Facial oils are great for sealing in hydration, especially for those with dry or sensitive skin,” says Marisa Garshick, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City. “They can enhance the benefits of your moisturizer and keep skin looking supple and radiant.”
But even oily or acne-prone skin types can benefit from the right oil. Non-comedogenic options like squalane or grapeseed oil provide moisture without clogging pores, and some even have anti-inflammatory properties that help calm breakouts.
The Key Rule
A general rule of thumb in skincare: apply your products from thinnest to thickest. That means water-based serums and moisturizers go on first, while facial oils should be one of the final steps in your routine.
Why? Oils act like a sealant. They trap all the hydration and active ingredients underneath them, helping them work more effectively. If you apply oil too early, it can create a barrier that blocks other products from absorbing into the skin.
So, whether it’s morning or night, your facial oil should follow after your moisturizer, not replace it.
Best Time to Apply Facial Oils: Morning vs. Night
Morning Application
If you’re wondering whether facial oils belong in your morning routine, the answer is… it depends.
For some, applying facial oil in the morning can leave skin feeling extra glowy, smooth, and ready for makeup. Lightweight oils like squalane or rosehip oil absorb quickly and don’t leave a greasy residue, making them great for daytime use.
Here’s how a simple AM routine might look:
Cleanser – Gentle, non-stripping
Toner or Essence – Optional, but great for added hydration
Serum – Think vitamin C for antioxidant protection
Moisturizer – Locks in hydration
Facial Oil – Lightweight oil to seal everything in
Sunscreen – Always the final step in your AM routine
Only use a small amount of oil, about 2 to 3 drops. Warm it between your palms and gently press it into your skin rather than rubbing it in. This helps with absorption and avoids disturbing your moisturizer or sunscreen.
However, those with oily or acne-prone skin may prefer to skip oils in the morning, especially in hot or humid climates. “If your skin is naturally oily, facial oil in the morning can feel too heavy and may interfere with your makeup or SPF,” says Dr. Garshick.
Nighttime Application
If there’s a “best” time to apply facial oils, night takes the crown. Your skin goes into repair mode while you sleep, and adding a nourishing oil can support that process beautifully.
At night, you don’t have to worry about SPF layering or makeup sitting right. This makes it the perfect time to indulge in richer oils that take longer to absorb, like argan, marula, or tamanu.
A typical PM routine might look like this:
Cleanser – Removes makeup, SPF, and impurities
Toner or Hydrating Mist – Balances pH and preps the skin
Serum – Depending on your concern (retinol, peptides, hyaluronic acid)
Moisturizer – Creamy or gel-based, depending on skin type
Facial Oil – Locks in moisture and delivers nutrients overnight
Nighttime is also ideal if you’re using oils that may increase sensitivity to the sun, like those with citrus extracts or retinoids (in some facial oil blends).
How Often Should You Use Facial Oils?
This comes down to your skin’s needs. Dry or mature skin types might benefit from daily use, both morning and night. On the flip side, combination or oily skin may only need oil once a day, or just a few times a week.
Listen to your skin. If it’s feeling tight, dull, or flaky, that’s your sign to reach for your facial oil.
Mixing Oil with Other Products?
Some people like to mix a drop or two of oil into their moisturizer or foundation. This can work, but there are a few things to keep in mind:
Mixing with moisturizer: This creates a richer, more emollient texture that’s perfect for dry skin. It also simplifies your routine.
Mixing with foundation: This gives your base a more radiant finish, but may reduce coverage or wear time, especially with matte formulas.
Whether you mix or layer, make sure your products are compatible. Avoid combining too many actives with oils that already contain essential oils, as this can irritate sensitive skin.
Choosing the Right Facial Oil
The best facial oil for you depends on your unique skin concerns. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Dry Skin: Look for argan oil, marula oil, or avocado oil. These are rich and deeply hydrating.
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin: Opt for squalane, rosehip seed oil, or jojoba oil. Lightweight, non-comedogenic, and balancing.
Sensitive Skin: Camellia oil or calendula-infused oils are soothing and gentle.
Mature Skin: Pomegranate seed oil, sea buckthorn oil, or oils with coenzyme Q10 help with firmness and elasticity.
Final Thoughts
Facial oils can transform your skincare routine, but timing is key. For most people, the best time to apply facial oil is at night, right after your moisturizer, to lock in all that hydration and give your skin the support it needs while it regenerates. If your skin tolerates it, a light facial oil in the morning can also be a great way to prep for the day ahead.
The bottom line? Facial oils aren’t just a luxury, they’re a powerful tool. When used correctly, they can make your skin feel softer, look healthier, and glow more naturally. Just find the right oil for your skin type, pay attention to how your skin responds, and give it time to do its magic.