How to get started with a face oil
Amongst the three founders, I was the sceptic on whether we should develop a face oil. I had traumatic memories from the early 2000s of smearing thick, cloggy oils on my skin and feeling hot and flustered all day. So we totally get how launching our face oil might receive a divided response.
What Is a Facial Oil?
Facial oils are concentrated blends of plant oils and skin-supporting ingredients designed to nourish, soften and protect the skin. They work by reinforcing the skin’s natural lipid barrier - helping prevent moisture loss while delivering beneficial fatty acids, antioxidants and vitamins - yes, please!
Common base oils include grape seed, sweet almond, olive, jojoba and squalane. Many modern facial oils also contain active ingredients such as bakuchiol, vitamin C or botanical extracts to target specific skin concerns like dullness, sensitivity or fine lines.
Facial Oils Today: More Than Just Oils
Traditional facial oils were rich, heavy and primarily used as an occlusive layer to seal in moisture. Modern formulas have evolved.
Today's face oils are lighter, faster-absorbing and formulated with results-driven ingredients designed to actively improve the appearance of skin - not just coat it.
They’re typically applied before moisturiser, either instead of or after a serum.
Classic oils mainly help lock hydration in - treatment oils aim to nourish and actively improve the skin.
A well-formulated facial oil can support skin health in several ways
Nourishes lipid-dry skin
Some skin lacks natural oils rather than water. Facial oils replenish these missing lipids.
Strengthens the skin barrier
Essential fatty acids help reinforce the protective barrier that keeps moisture in and irritants out.
Soothes sensitivity and inflammation
Many plant oils contain calming compounds that reduce redness and irritation.
Adds radiance
Oils smooth the skin surface, helping light reflect more evenly for a healthy glow.
Supports hydration
By reducing transepidermal water loss, oils help the skin retain hydration longer.
Perfect for facial massage
Their "slip" makes them ideal for gua sha, lymphatic massage and facial sculpting.
Do You *Need* a Facial Oil?
If you have dry, mature or sensitive skin, facial oils can make a noticeable difference. They’re one of the quickest ways to restore comfort to skin that feels tight, dull or depleted.
They’re also especially helpful during winter or periods of stress, when skin can become reactive and dehydrated.
Facial Oil v Moisturiser
Do you need both? Not necessarily, but they can work beautifully together.
Moisturisers contain a mix of water, humectants and lipids, meaning they can both hydrate the skin and help lock moisture in.
Facial oils, however, mainly seal and nourish. They reduce water loss but don’t add hydration themselves.
For very dry skin, layering the two can be incredibly effective.
How to Use a Facial Oil
* Congested or oily skin: lightweight oils like squalane
* Dry skin: look for omega-rich oils, ceramides or vitamin-rich plant oils
* Sensitive skin: avoid strong fragrance or essential oils
Use your hands to apply the product.
Warm 1–2 drops between your palms and press into the skin. The warmth helps the oil absorb more effectively.
Use gentle pressing or sweeping motions rather than rubbing.
Layer it with moisturiser
If skin feels dry or dull, apply a couple of drops under your moisturiser during the day or as the final step at night.
You can apply moisturiser all over the face, then use a facial oil only where skin needs extra nourishment.
Layer carefully
If you apply moisturiser over oil, let the oil absorb first to avoid pilling.
Facial oils can also buffer retinoids, helping reduce dryness or irritation when using vitamin A products.
How often?
You can use facial oils daily. Most people prefer them in the evening, when the skin naturally repairs overnight. However, lighter treatment oils can be used morning and night, especially if they absorb quickly.
If you're ready to dive in you can check out our Velvet Woods Face Oil here. It's packed with skin loving Australian Buddha Wood, rice lipids, and bakuchiol - a plant-derived retinol alternative that helps smooth fine lines and improve skin texture.
