Facial Oils and the Skin Barrier: What Plant Oils Actually Do

July 11, 2026

Facial oils split opinion. Some people swear by them, others worry they cause congestion. The research on plant oils gives a more nuanced picture.

What the research shows

A review of topical plant oils describes how various oils, including olive, sunflower seed and coconut oil, have been studied for anti-inflammatory effects and for supporting skin barrier repair (Lin et al., 2017, PMID 29280987). Importantly, not all oils behave the same way, and some support the barrier better than others.

Where oils fit in a routine

As a final step, an oil can act as an emollient that seals in the moisture underneath.
A cleansing oil is a gentle way to melt off sunscreen and makeup, often as the first step of a double cleanse.
Drier skin tends to enjoy richer oils, while oilier skin may prefer lighter, non-heavy options.

How to use them well

Apply a facial oil over your moisturiser, not under it, so it can seal water in rather than block it out. Oils add richness and comfort, but they do not hydrate on their own, so pair them with a hydrating step.

At Verdo we stock the Pure Fiji Nourishing Exotic Coconut Oil and the Medik8 Lipid-Balance Cleansing Oil.

Disclaimer: This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. The studies cited are from peer-reviewed journals and are provided for educational context. Individual results vary. Speak with a qualified healthcare professional or dermatologist before changing your routine. Verdo Cosmetics makes no therapeutic claims about the products or services mentioned.

Frequently asked questions

Are facial oils good for your skin?

A review found that various plant oils have been studied for anti-inflammatory effects and supporting skin barrier repair, though not all oils behave the same (Lin et al., 2017). Used as a sealing step, oils can add comfort, especially for drier skin.

Do facial oils cause breakouts?

It depends on the oil and your skin. Some oils suit oily skin poorly, while lighter, non-heavy options are better tolerated. Drier skin generally enjoys richer oils. Patch testing helps if you are prone to congestion.

Do you apply face oil before or after moisturiser?

Apply oil over your moisturiser, as the last step. Oils work as emollients that seal in the water beneath them, so they go on top rather than underneath.

What is a cleansing oil?

A cleansing oil is designed to melt away sunscreen and makeup gently, often as the first step of a double cleanse, followed by a water-based cleanser. It suits most skin types when rinsed off properly.

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