Gives a dewy, rested radiance without greasy residue—apply just 1–2 drops and press into skin for even, non-slippery wear.
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You want a face oil that gives real glow and comfort, not a shiny film or surprise breakouts. These vegan options are the ones worth your money, with clear strengths for different skin needs.
In-depth Reviews
Biossance Squalane + Vitamin C Rose Oil
- Noticeable glow with a comfortable, non-sticky finish
- Layers well under makeup when used sparingly
- Helps skin feel softer and less tight
- Natural rose scent may bother fragrance-sensitive skin
- Can feel too rich on very oily zones if overapplied
Youth To The People Superberry Hydrate + Glow Dream Oil
- Very nourishing for rough or tight-feeling skin
- Great night oil for barrier support
- Gives a healthy sheen without sparkle
- Can feel too rich for hot, humid weather
- Not ideal as a heavy layer under sunscreen for oily skin
Herbivore Botanicals Lapis Facial Oil
- Lightweight feel that does not overwhelm oily skin
- Comforting when skin is both irritated and breakout-prone
- Plays nicely with gel moisturizers
- Herbal aroma can be strong for sensitive noses
- Essential-oil components may not suit reactive skin
The Ordinary 100% Plant-Derived Squalane
- Simple, reliable hydration boost with minimal fuss
- Easy to layer with most skincare routines
- Great starter oil for beginners
- Can feel slippery if you use too much
- Not as “glowy” as blended oils
Pai Skincare Rosehip BioRegenerate Oil
- Comforting for sensitivity and dryness
- Leaves skin softer by morning without feeling waxy
- Nice for targeted dry patches
- Earthy natural scent is not for everyone
- Can pill if layered too heavily under thicker creams
Buying Guide
How to Use Face Oil Without Feeling Greasy
Start with less than you think you need. For most routines, 1 to 2 drops is plenty, especially in the daytime. Put the drops in your palms, rub hands together lightly, then press the oil into your skin. Pressing helps the oil distribute evenly and reduces that “sliding around” feeling that happens when you rub too hard. If you want extra comfort, add one drop to your moisturizer instead of putting oil directly on your face.
Apply it to slightly damp skin. Oils spread better and feel lighter when there is a little water on the skin first. After cleansing, use a hydrating serum or a simple mist, then go in with oil while your skin is still a touch damp. This small step can make a rich oil feel significantly less heavy. It also helps keep your glow looking like healthy skin, not like product sitting on top.
Keep your layering order clean, especially in the morning. If you wear sunscreen, oil should go underneath it, and you should give the oil a few minutes to settle before applying SPF. If your sunscreen starts to pill, you are probably using too much oil, or your oil is not fully absorbing before SPF goes on. At night, oil is more flexible, but if you use retinoids or exfoliating acids, apply those first, then follow with moisturizer, and finish with a small amount of oil to reduce dryness. When in doubt, patch test on your jawline for a few nights before using a new oil all over your face.
💡 Editor’s Final Thoughts
Final Verdict: Biossance Squalane + Vitamin C Rose Oil is my top pick because it delivers the most noticeable glow while still feeling refined and comfortable on the skin. If you want a simpler, no-fuss option that plays well with almost any routine, The Ordinary 100% Plant-Derived Squalane is the best value.
See also
If you are specifically targeting fine lines, start with Best Face Oil for Wrinkles: 4 Proven Picks That Actually Help, and if you break out easily, pair it with Best Face Oils for Acne Prone Skin to narrow your choices faster.
- Best face cleansers for dry skin
- Gradual tanners for face that will not clog pores
- Best face oil for rosacea to calm redness
Frequently Asked Questions ▾
Can a vegan face oil clog pores or cause breakouts?
Yes, any oil can trigger congestion if the formula is too heavy for your skin, if you use too much, or if you are layering it over products that already feel occlusive. If you are acne-prone, look for lightweight oils like squalane, jojoba, or kukui, and avoid applying a thick layer as your final step every night. Start with 1 to 2 drops, press it in, and give it a week before you decide. If you notice closed comedones, scale back to every other night or switch to a lighter option.
When should I apply face oil in my skincare routine?
Apply face oil after water-based steps and before sunscreen in the morning. A simple order is cleanser, hydrating toner or serum, moisturizer (optional), face oil, then sunscreen. At night, you can finish with oil as your last step, or mix a drop into moisturizer if you prefer less shine. The biggest performance tip is to apply oil on slightly damp skin, either right after a hydrating serum or a light mist, so it spreads evenly instead of sitting on top.
How many drops of face oil do I actually need?
Most people use more than necessary, which is when oils start to feel slick or move around on the skin. For normal to oily skin, 1 to 2 drops is often enough for the whole face. For dry skin, 2 to 4 drops can be comfortable, especially in winter. Warm the oil between clean fingertips, then press and pat instead of rubbing hard. If you can still feel a layer 10 minutes later, reduce the amount next time or apply it only to dry zones like cheeks and around the mouth.
Can I use face oil with retinol, exfoliating acids, or vitamin C?
Usually, yes, and it can actually make a strong routine feel more comfortable. Keep your treatment steps on clean, dry skin first (retinoid or exfoliating acid), then follow with a gentle moisturizer, then a small amount of oil to seal in moisture. If your vitamin C is a water-based serum, apply it first, let it sink in, then use oil after. If you ever notice stinging or increased sensitivity, pause the actives for a few nights and use oil with a bland moisturizer until your skin feels calm again.
How do I confirm a face oil is truly vegan?
Do not assume that plant oils automatically mean vegan, since some face oils include non-vegan ingredients like beeswax, lanolin, or collagen in blended formulas. Check the ingredient list for animal-derived ingredients, and look for clear vegan labeling from the brand. Also pay attention to added fragrance and essential oils if you are sensitive, since “natural” can still irritate. If you are unsure, choose a single-ingredient oil like squalane, which keeps the risk of hidden additives low.
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