Essential Oils for Facial Care

Pure essential oils can be powerful allies in a natural skin care routine. This guide will help you choose the right oils for your skin type when creating facial spritzers, face oils, serums, or compresses. Always dilute essential oils in a carrier oil before applying to the face. Never use undiluted on skin.

Essential Oils by Skin Type

Normal Skin

Normal skin benefits from balancing, toning oils that maintain healthy moisture levels and a clear complexion. Recommended oils: clary sage, geranium, lavender, neroli, rose, sandalwood, rosewood.

Oily Skin

Oily skin responds well to oils that regulate sebum production, minimize pores, and keep the complexion fresh without stripping moisture. Recommended oils: clary sage, eucalyptus, lavender, lemon, peppermint, rose, rosemary, tea tree, rosewood, cedarwood.

Dry and Sensitive Skin

Dry and sensitive skin needs gentle, nourishing oils that soothe irritation, restore moisture, and strengthen the skin barrier. Recommended oils: chamomile (blue and Roman), frankincense, lavender, neroli, rosewood.

Inflamed and Acne-Prone Skin

Acne-prone and inflamed skin benefits from antibacterial, anti-inflammatory oils that calm redness and support healing without clogging pores. Recommended oils: chamomile (blue and Roman), clary sage, lavender, lemon, neroli, rose, tea tree, rosewood.

Mature Skin

Mature skin benefits from deeply regenerating, firming oils that support collagen production, reduce the appearance of fine lines, and restore radiance. Recommended oils: clary sage, frankincense, jasmine, lavender, neroli, rose, sandalwood, carrot seed, rosewood, patchouli.

How to Use Essential Oils for Facial Care

Facial Spritzer

Add 8-10 drops of your chosen essential oil to 4 oz. distilled water in a spray bottle. Shake well before each use and mist onto clean skin. Ideal for toning and refreshing throughout the day.

Face Oil or Serum

Add 3-6 drops of essential oil to 1 oz. of a lightweight carrier oil such as rosehip seed, jojoba, or argan oil. Apply a few drops to clean skin morning or evening.

Facial Compress

Add 3-4 drops of essential oil to a bowl of warm or cool water. Soak a soft cloth, wring out, and apply to the face for several minutes. Warm compresses are soothing for dry skin. Cool compresses help calm inflammation and oily skin.

A Note on Rosewood

You will notice rosewood appears across nearly every skin type category. It is one of the most versatile and gentle facial oils available, making it an excellent base for any skin care blend.

Shop Essential Oils for Skin Care

Explore our full collection of pure, therapeutic-grade essential oils at Valley of the Moon Aromatherapy.