Face oils for oily skin might sound like a contradiction, but the right ones can actually help balance oil, clarify pores, and calm breakouts — all without clogging or greasiness.
At Olive + Sage, we craft waterless, botanical skincare that supports every skin type — including oily and blemish-prone. Below, we break down the best face oils that truly work for oily skin, along with how to use them for maximum benefit.
Why Use Face Oils on Oily or Acne-Prone Skin?
It might sound counterintuitive, but plant-based facial oils can be one of the best things for oily, congested, or acne-prone skin. Many of these oils are:
- Non-comedogenic (won’t clog pores)
- Naturally astringent and help refine pore appearance
- Balancing to sebum production
- Anti-inflammatory and rich in antioxidants
- Free of synthetic additives that often cause irritation
Rather than stripping the skin, which can lead to rebound oiliness, facial oils replenish and calm — helping your skin regulate itself naturally. According to a peer-reviewed study on the effects of plant oils, botanical oils can support skin barrier function, reduce inflammation, and provide antimicrobial benefits — all of which are helpful for acne-prone or sensitive skin.
Top Face Oils for Oily Skin (That Actually Work)
🌰 Hazelnut Face Oil
Fast-absorbing and naturally astringent, organic hazelnut oil is ideal for oily skin. It helps tighten pores, balance sebum production, and hydrate without shine.
→ Try our Hazelnut Face Oil — infused with cocoa and vanilla for extra skin-soothing benefits.
💚 Blue Tansy Oil
Known for its calming, anti-inflammatory powers, blue tansy helps reduce redness, irritation, and hormonal breakouts. A great match for sensitive, blemish-prone skin.
🍃 Tamanu Oil
A thicker oil packed with antibacterial and wound-healing properties. Best used as a spot treatment or blended into lightweight moisturizers.
🌿 Squalane (Plant-Based)
Non-greasy and incredibly light, squalane mimics your skin’s natural lipids and supports a smooth, matte finish. Safe even for acne-prone skin.
🍓 Rosehip Oil
Naturally rich in vitamin A and antioxidants, rosehip helps fade dark spots and refine texture — great for post-acne marks and dullness.
How to Use Face Oils for Oily or Acne-Prone Skin
- Cleanse first: Use a gentle, non-stripping cleanser that won’t throw your barrier out of balance.
- Apply 2–4 drops of face oil to slightly damp skin.
- Press into skin rather than rubbing — this enhances absorption and reduces irritation.
- Use at night or under sunscreen during the day for a balanced glow.
💡 Pro tip: Pair your face oil with a light, non-comedogenic cream like our Poreless Nectar Face Cream for a complete balancing routine.
Why Clean, Preservative-Free Oils Are Better
Synthetic preservatives, emulsifiers, and fillers can trigger breakouts — especially in sensitive or oily skin types. At Olive + Sage, we skip all that.
Our face oils are:
- 100% organic and unrefined cold-pressed oils
- Made in small batches
- Free of preservatives, fragrance, and fillers
- Stored in glass for purity and sustainability
You get potent plant power — and nothing else.
Our Top Picks for Oily Skin from Olive + Sage
- 🌰 Hazelnut Face Oil — lightweight and astringent with a warm cocoa-vanilla scent
- 💧 Poreless Nectar Face Cream — helps refine texture and calm inflammation
- 🌿 Blue Tansy Face Cream — soothing and ideal for reactive, blemish-prone skin
- ✨ Nature’s Retinol Face Oil — gentle retinol alternative with sea buckthorn and CO₂ extracts
Real Ingredients. Real Results.
At Olive + Sage, we believe skincare should be as clean as it is effective. Every product is handmade with organic, waterless ingredients to support your skin without compromise.
Ready to Try Face Oils for Oily Skin?
Explore our full Facial Care Collection or reach out for custom pairing suggestions. Your healthiest skin is just a few drops away.