Face oils are trending again, but this time, backed by science. When used correctly, they hydrate, strengthen the skin barrier, calm irritation, and give that lit-from-within glow.
But here’s the twist: most people use face oils the wrong way, leading to greasiness, breakouts, or zero results.
Ready to finally unlock the real benefits?
Let’s get into the exact steps and watch out for the one product-layering mistake 90% of people unknowingly make…
Step 0: Know Your Skin & Choose the Right Oil (Armony Ingredient Guide)
Before using any face oil, the first step is choosing one that suits your skin’s needs.
Armony’s oils are powered by three scientifically backed, skin-loving oils: jojoba, argan, and sweet almond. Here’s what each does and why your skin will love them:
Jojoba Oil — The Oil That Mimics Your Skin
- Technically a liquid wax ester, not a true oil.
- Its structure closely mimics human sebum.
- Best for: oily, combination, sensitive, and acne-prone skin.
- Benefits: regulates oil production, lightweight hydration, non-comedogenic.
Argan Oil — The Antioxidant Powerhouse
- Rich in vitamin E and essential fatty acids.
- Best for: dry, dull, aging, irritated skin.
- Benefits: deep nourishment, softens fine lines, strengthens the skin barrier.
Science-backed insight: Argan oil contains both oleic and linoleic acids, making it effective for reducing inflammation and supporting elasticity.
Sweet Almond Oil — The Barrier-Repair Expert
- A soothing emollient packed with vitamins A & E.
- Best for: dry, flaky, and sensitive skin types.
- Benefits: softens skin, calms irritation, reduces moisture loss.
You’ll see how these three oils work together to lock in moisture.
Step 1: Start with Clean, Slightly Damp Skin
Water + oil = deeper hydration.
Here’s how to prep your skin:
- Cleanse gently (avoid stripping foaming cleansers.)
- Pat your face until it's slightly damp (not dripping).
- This dampness helps oils spread evenly and seal hydration in the skin.
Want the fastest glow from your face oil? The trick is hidden in your hands, not your face. (You’ll see in Step 3.)
Step 2: Apply Your Face Oil
To keep this simple, effective, and suitable for all skin types:
How to apply the oil correctly:
- Use 2–4 drops for the entire face
- If using Armony’s roll-on: 1–2 gentle passes under each eye and 2–3 passes around the face
Allow the oil to melt into the skin for a few seconds before massage.
Why only oil, not moisturiser?
Face oils already act as emollients and mild occlusives. Using them alone helps:
- Seal hydration
- Strengthen the skin barrier
- Reduce transepidermal water loss (TEWL)
- Give a smoother finish without pilling
You can add moisturiser only if your skin is extremely dry.
Wait until you see how massage in Step 3 transforms absorption…
Step 3: Massage the Face Oil Properly (Pro Technique for Glow)
This is where the magic happens.
The 60-Second Glow Massage Technique:
Warm the oil
Rub palms together for 3 seconds to warm the oil — this increases fluidity and spreads easier.
Press, don’t rub
Start by pressing your palms onto your cheeks, forehead, and chin to push hydration in
Upward strokes
- Use your fingers to glide upwards from chin → jaw → temples
- From nose → cheekbones
- From eyebrows → hairline
Undereye technique
- Use ring fingers
- Make tiny inward-to-outward circles
- Keep movements feather-light to avoid tugging
Lymphatic drainage finish (30 seconds)
- Sweep outward from the center of the face
- Downward behind the ears
- Down the neck to the collarbones
This helps reduce puffiness, boosts circulation, and gives an instant glow.
Step 4: AM vs PM Usage
AM:
Use lightweight oils like jojoba blends before sunscreen.
Always let the oil settle for 2–3 minutes before applying SPF.
PM:
Use richer oils like argan or sweet almond for deep overnight repair.
Science-backed fact: Overnight is when your skin’s barrier recovery is highest — oils enhance that process.
Want SPF to layer perfectly over oil? Here’s the trick: test your sunscreen + oil combo on your hand first.
Step 5: Special Techniques to Maximise Results
1. Mix with moisturiser (optional, not required)
If skin feels extra dry, mix 1–2 drops of oil with your cream.
2. Overnight sealing
Apply a thin layer of oil before bed to boost barrier repair.
3. Spot treating dryness
Use a drop on flaky areas like around the nose or mouth.
Fun fact: Sweet almond oil has been used for centuries in Ayurveda to soften and brighten skin tones.
Avoid These Common Mistakes
- Using too much oil → greasy feel and clogged pores
- Applying oil on dripping-wet skin
- Rubbing aggressively instead of pressing
- Skipping sunscreen
The biggest mistake? Treating oil like lotion. You know now; warmth + pressing = glow.
Science-Backed FAQs
Q: Will face oil clog my pores?
Jojoba and squalane are low-risk. Heavier oils should be tested first.
Q: Can oils improve fine lines?
They reduce appearance by hydrating and smoothing the surface.
Q: Is natural always better?
No. Composition, fatty acids, and stability matter more.
Tiny Science Sidebar — Why Oils Work?
- Refill lipids in the outer skin layer
- Reduce water loss
- Provide antioxidants
- Strengthen skin’s natural barrier
Fun fact: Egyptians mixed oils with powdered minerals as early cosmetics, oils were considered sacred.