Oil products for oily skin. Avoid or not?

Olieproducten voor een vette huid. Vermijden of niet?

First, let's state that you don't always have the same skin type or that your entire skin is of the same skin type. The skin can have different needs depending on the weather, your living conditions (stress, alcohol, medication), humidity, hormones, or other factors. Some people have an oily forehead but dry cheeks. That's why we prefer not to speak of a skin type, but rather of the skin's condition at a given moment. After all, the skin changes as we age, as the weather changes, and as your living conditions change.

What to do about oily skin

But if you have (partially) oily skin, what can you do about it? You've probably been told for years to avoid products with oil. But is that really true? Or is it just a persistent myth? In this blog, we'll delve deeper into this question and look at three important aspects: the role of oils in skincare, the difference between different types of oils, and the influence of age on the skin.

Facial oil and skin oil; what does it do for you?

The idea that oil makes oily skin even oilier seems logical. But skincare is more complex than that. Some oils can actually help regulate sebum production (the skin's natural oil). When your skin produces too much sebum, this can lead to a shiny face and clogged pores. It may sound contradictory, but certain oils, such as jojoba oil, are very similar to the skin's natural sebum. By using these oils, your skin can "think" that it has produced enough oil and stops overproducing. In this case, it can actually help to use an oily product, even if your skin is naturally oily.

Cucumber Seed Oil is a super fine oil for oilier skin. It is a fast-absorbing lightweight oil that does not feel heavy on the skin. This makes the Food for Skin Cucumber Serum, for example, very suitable for an oilier skin condition. Cucumber seed oil contains alpha-linolenic acid, which inhibits inflammation in the skin.

Choose the right face oil

Not all oils are the same, and some may work better for oily skin than others. Light, non-comedogenic oils such as hemp oil, squalane, or grapeseed oil do not clog pores and can even help hydrate without making the skin feel greasy. On the other hand, there are heavier oils, such as coconut oil or flaxseed oil, that can clog pores and potentially lead to breakouts in people with oily skin. It is therefore important to choose the right type of oil that suits your skin type. This means you don't necessarily have to avoid all oily products, but you do need to be aware of which ones you choose.

A beautiful oil-based product with grapeseed oil is, for example, the Food for Skin – Mineral sunscreen SPF30. A sun protection based on a mineral factor that does not cause pimples.

Caring for oily skin throughout the years

As you age, your skin changes. This is partly due to TEWL, which stands for Transepidermal Water Loss. Around forty, skin elasticity and moisture can be lost. Even if you have oily skin, this does not automatically mean that you don't need extra hydration. However, it is not possible to bring moisture into the skin. This is because water, creams, and serums cannot penetrate deep enough into those skin layers. You can, however, help protect the skin against moisture loss. Oils can be a valuable addition to your skincare routine, as they apply a thin layer to the skin which slows down the evaporation of moisture from the skin. A lack of moisture can lead to higher sebum production, as your skin tries to protect itself from drying out. It is therefore important to keep a close eye on how your skin changes and adjust your care routine accordingly.

What helps against oily skin? Our conclusion

The claim that oily skin cannot use oily products is a myth. The key lies in choosing the right oil for your skin condition. Light, non-comedogenic (non-clogging) oils can even have a positive effect on sebum production and moisture retention in the skin. So, experiment with different oils and discover what works best for your skin!

If you are in doubt, opt for the Food for Skin trial set with 3 beautiful different facial serums. Use one of the oils for a longer period to compare the results. Since your skin condition can change throughout the year, it is definitely a good idea to occasionally switch up your serum depending on your skin's needs.

Frequently asked questions about natural facial care by skin type

What is the best natural skincare for my skin type?

The best skincare isn't standard, but tailored to your skin's condition at that moment. Look at what your skin needs: extra nourishment or just a break. Keep it simple and choose products that support that.

What are the benefits of face oil?

Facial oil helps to retain moisture, supports the skin barrier, and nourishes the skin with essential fatty acids and antioxidants. The right oil can balance the skin without feeling heavy.

How do I know what my skin type is?

View it as a snapshot rather than a fixed type. Pay attention to signs such as dryness, shine, sensitivity, or impurities. How does your skin feel after cleansing and throughout the day? That tells you more than a fixed label.

Can my skin type change?

Yes. Part of it is genetically determined, but your skin changes with the seasons, hormones, stress, and lifestyle. What works today may be different in a few months.

Why doesn't natural skincare work the same for everyone?

Every skin is different and reacts in its own way. Most people benefit from a simple, consistent routine with mild products that support rather than take over.

About the author

Written by Angela Ursem, co-founder of Food for Skin.

From Food for Skin, I write about natural skincare, ingredients, and transparency in cosmetics. Not to make it sound better than it is, but to better explain what you are truly looking at when you buy a product.

Intrigued? Start with our basic routine