If you have acne-prone skin, the thought of applying oils might feel counterintuitive.
For decades, the skincare industry reinforced the idea that oils clog pores, trigger breakouts, and should be avoided at all costs if you’re prone to acne.
Many of us grew up reaching for foaming cleansers and oil-free products that promised to mattify skin and keep blemishes at bay.
But the truth is more nuanced.
Modern skincare science has shown that not all oils are created equal— and some can actually benefit acne-prone skin by calming inflammation, strengthening the barrier, and balancing sebum production.
The key lies in choosing the right oils and applying them correctly.
Let’s dive into whether acne-prone skin can safely use oils, which ones to try, and how to integrate them into your skincare routine.
It’s also important to know that everyone’s skin is different, and what breaks you out might be completely fine for someone else.
Why Oils Got a Bad Reputation in Acne Care
For years, the prevailing wisdom was that oils were the enemy of clear skin.
Acne-prone skin is often associated with excess sebum (oil), clogged pores, and breakouts, so it seemed logical to strip the skin of oil to prevent acne.
This led to an abundance of oil-free skincare products marketed as the solution for problem skin.
The problem with this approach is that when you strip the skin of its natural oils, it often fights back by producing even more sebum.
This overproduction can make acne worse, not better. Stripping cleansers can also disrupt the skin barrier, leaving it irritated, inflamed, and more vulnerable to breakouts.
What we know now is that acne-prone skin doesn’t necessarily need less oil—it needs the right kind of oil.
The Science: Not All Oils Are Comedogenic
The idea that all oils clog pores is outdated.
Skincare experts now categorise oils based on their comedogenic rating—a scale that measures how likely an ingredient is to block pores.
Oils with a low comedogenic rating (0–2) are considered safe for acne-prone skin, while those with higher ratings may cause congestion in some individuals.
Non-comedogenic oils are often lightweight, easily absorbed, and rich in skin-beneficial fatty acids.
Many also contain anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that support acne healing and barrier repair. In other words, oils can be part of the solution, not the problem.
The Best Oils for Acne-Prone Skin
When selecting oils for acne-prone skin, the focus should be on non-comedogenic, lightweight options that nourish without suffocating the skin.
Here are some of the most beneficial choices:
Sunflower Seed Oil
A gentle, non-comedogenic oil rich in Vitamin E and linoleic acid. Sunflower seed oil helps strengthen the skin barrier, calm irritation, and protect against environmental stressors. Its lightweight texture makes it perfect for acne-prone skin that still craves moisture.
Squalane
A skin-identical oil derived from olives or sugarcane. Squalane is ultra-lightweight, non-greasy, and hydrating, making it ideal for oily and acne-prone complexions. It also helps regulate sebum production, ensuring the skin doesn’t swing between extremes of dryness and oiliness.
Jojoba Seed Oil
Structurally similar to the skin’s natural sebum, jojoba is excellent at balancing oil production. It can trick the skin into producing less sebum, reducing the risk of clogged pores. Jojoba is also soothing and helps repair damaged skin.
Oat Kernel Oil
Known for its calming and barrier-supporting properties, oat kernel oil is a great choice if your acne-prone skin is also sensitive or prone to redness. It contains antioxidants and fatty acids that reduce inflammation while maintaining hydration.
Macadamia Oil
Rich in oleic and palmitoleic acids, macadamia oil nourishes the skin while helping to restore balance. Its texture is slightly richer, making it suitable for acne-prone skin that also leans dry or dehydrated.
Rosemary Leaf Extract
A potent antioxidant and antimicrobial ingredient that protects the skin from environmental damage and helps calm breakouts. Rosemary leaf extract is often added to oil blends to boost their soothing and purifying benefits.
Together, these oils can hydrate, protect, and repair acne-prone skin without clogging pores.
Shop our Nourishing Oil Cleanser that has a wonderful blend of skin-loving oils.
Oils to Avoid with Acne-Prone Skin
While many oils are safe, some are best avoided if you’re prone to congestion. Oils with a higher comedogenic rating are more likely to sit on the surface of the skin and block pores.
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Coconut Oil: Although beloved in hair and body care, it can be too heavy for facial use on acne-prone skin.
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Wheat Germ Oil: Rich in nutrients but dense, making it sometimes unsuitable for breakout-prone complexions.
If you’re unsure, always patch test first before applying a new oil all over your face.
How to Safely Use Oils in an Acne-Prone Routine
Adding oils into your skincare routine doesn’t have to be intimidating. With the right approach, they can complement your existing routine without overwhelming your skin.
1. Patch Test First
Before introducing a new oil, apply a small amount to one area of skin for several days. This ensures your skin tolerates it without breakouts or irritation.
2. Use Oils as the Last Step
Because oils are occlusive, they work best when applied at the end of your routine. Layer your serums and moisturisers first, then apply one to three drops of oil to seal everything in.
3. Start Slow
Introduce oils two to three times a week, then increase frequency if your skin responds well. This helps your skin adjust gradually.
4. Opt for Evening Application
Night-time use allows oils to work overnight while the skin is in repair mode. In the morning, you can stick to lighter hydrating serums and moisturiser.
Final Thoughts
The belief that oils are bad for acne-prone skin is outdated. When chosen wisely, oils can provide hydration, calm inflammation, strengthen the skin barrier, and even help regulate sebum production.
Lightweight, non-comedogenic options like Sunflower Seed Oil, Macadamia Oil, Squalane, Oat Kernel Oil, Rosemary Leaf Extract, and Jojoba Seed Oil are excellent additions to an acne-prone skincare routine.
The key is to patch test, apply sparingly, and listen to how your skin responds.
By shifting away from harsh, oil-stripping routines and embracing barrier-friendly oils, you may find your acne-prone skin becoming calmer, clearer, and more balanced over time.
FAQs About Oils and Acne-Prone Skin
Will oils make my acne worse?
Not if you choose non-comedogenic options. Oils like squalane and jojoba can actually regulate sebum production and reduce breakouts.
Can oils replace my moisturiser?
Oils don’t replace moisturisers, but they can enhance them. Moisturisers deliver hydration (water-based), while oils seal it in. For best results, use both.
How often should I use oils?
Start with two to three times a week and adjust based on how your skin responds.
Are essential oils safe for acne-prone skin?
Pure essential oils can be irritating, especially for sensitive or acne-prone skin. If used, they should be diluted in a carrier oil.
