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Face oils have been part of my routine for years, but for a long time I was using them the wrong way.
Instead of making my skin look smoother, they often left it shiny, heavy, or even a little bumpy by the end of the day. The extra shine also seemed to make my pores, lines, and skin texture stand out more—not exactly the healthy glow I was hoping for.
What I finally learned is that face oil usually looks greasy for three reasons:
- you’re using too much
- applying it in the wrong order
- using an oil that is simply too heavy for your skin
Once I started using fewer drops, applying them to slightly damp skin, and choosing lighter oils, my skin looked smoother and healthier instead of oily.
Here’s the simple method that made the biggest difference for me.
The 30-second way to use face oil (so it doesn’t look greasy)
If your face oil keeps sitting on top of your skin or leaves you looking shiny instead of hydrated, don’t give up on it just yet.
I only use 2–3 drops for my whole face. Using less made a big difference in how my skin looked and felt.Here’s how I apply my face oil. It’s what works best for me, but you may find that a little more or less oil works better for your skin.
- Start with skin that’s still slightly damp after cleansing—not dripping wet.
- Place 2–3 drops in the palm of your hand.
- Gently rub your palms together to spread the oil.
- Press your palms over your entire face.
- If needed, add just one more drop.
The goal is to use just enough oil to lightly cover your whole face.
One exception is when I’m doing facial massage. I’ll use a little more oil so my fingers or massage tool can glide without pulling on my skin. If you use a Kansa wand, I have a few suggestions in my guide to the best oils and serums for the Kansa wand.
Common mistakes that leave face oil looking greasy
Face oil isn’t always the problem. Most of the time it’s simply how you’re using it. These are the mistakes that made the biggest difference for me.
- Applying it to dry skin: I get better results when my skin is still slightly damp after cleansing. The oil spreads more evenly and leaves my skin looking hydrated instead of just shiny.
- Using too much: More isn’t better. For my whole face, 2–3 drops is usually enough. Adding extra just makes it sit on top of my skin.
- Rubbing it in instead of pressing: Pressing the oil into my skin gives me a smoother finish than rubbing it around.
- Layering it in the wrong order: If I’m using a moisturizer, I apply that first, then press 1–2 drops of face oil on top to help seal everything in. I still get the best results when my skin was slightly damp earlier in the routine.
Once I fixed those simple mistakes, everything changed.
Choose a face oil that’s right for your skin
Once you’re using face oil the right way, choosing the right one becomes just as important.
I’ve found that lightweight, plant-derived oils leave my skin feeling soft and hydrated without the heavy, greasy finish I used to get from richer oils.
A quick guide by skin type
Not every face oil works for everyone. Some are light, while others are richer and can leave your skin looking too shiny.
Here’s what I’d suggest:
- Dry skin: Try a richer oil, like sweet almond or avocado oil, especially if your skin feels tight or flaky.
- Oily skin: Start with something lighter, like jojoba oil. You may only need a drop or two.
- Sensitive skin: Keep it simple. Look for an oil without added fragrance or essential oils, and test a small area first.
- Combination skin: You don’t have to use oil everywhere. Try a little on your dry areas and skip the spots that already get oily.
The trick is finding an oil that feels good on your skin without leaving a greasy film.
Still Not Sure?
If you’re not sure which oil to try, take a look at my Best Face Oils for Glowing Skin page. I share a few options I like and what to consider when choosing one.
If you’re interested in using essential oils, like frankincense, those are a little different from regular face oils. They’re much more concentrated and need to be diluted before applying them to your skin.
I explain more in my guide to Essential Oils for Wrinkles.
Common questions about face oils
Yes, but you may not need it. If you want to try one, start with a lightweight oil and just a drop or two. See how your skin feels before adding more
Either is fine. I prefer starting at night, especially if you’re worried about looking shiny during the day. If you use it in the morning, keep the amount small and finish with sunscreen.
Have a question or want to share your experience?
I’d love to hear from you! Visit my Questions & Comments page to ask a question, share a tip, or tell me what’s worked for you.
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About the Author:
Linda Robison is a Certified Facial Fitness Specialist and founder of Anti-Aging Beauty Zone, where she shares practical tips, products, techniques, and at-home options for women over 40. She personally tests many of the methods she writes about.
Experience: Linda spent nearly 15 years as an Anti-Aging Health Advisor at the Life Extension Foundation and has over 30 years of experience testing facial anti-aging techniques, including training in Carolyn’s Facial Fitness. Her work has been featured in GB News and Beauty Box Magazine. You can view her background on LinkedIn and follow her on Pinterest.
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Stay Connected with Me
Want to see what I’m up to? I’ll keep you posted on new products I’m trying, little tricks I’ve discovered, new finds, and a few personal updates too.