14 Best Face Oils for Acne to Achieve a Clear, Blemish-free Skin

Written by Anoushka Sinha, Skincare Coach & Writer
Updated on Feb 07, 2024
Face Oil for Acne to Achieve a Clear, Blemish-Free Skin
Face Oil for Acne to Achieve a Clear, Blemish-Free Skin
The products curated for this article are independently chosen by the editorial team. If you make a purchase through the links mentioned below, we may receive a commission. Check out our product research & curation process

Acne is a common skin concern that many people deal with. And while there are many acne-fighting products on the market, some people prefer to take a more natural approach to their skincare routine. This is where face oils step in! The best face oils for acne are an incredible, natural alternative to treat those pesky bumps on your skin and promote clear, healthy skin. Our contributor Ollie Wertheim,  Founder and Chief Formulator - Sensitive Skin LLC, shares some common misconceptions about face oils, saying, “One of the biggest misconceptions is that they are not suitable for oily skin. In reality, certain non-comedogenic oils can help regulate oil production and balance the skin. Another misconception is that face oils can replace moisturizers, whereas they are best used in conjunction to enhance hydration and nourishment. Additionally, assuming that all oils will clog pores overlooks the fact that carefully selected oils, based on their fatty acid composition, can actually provide benefits without causing breakouts.”

(Face oils) can be useful in some situations where they can act as an emulsifier and help lift oily residues from makeup or other products and pollutants from the skin,” says dermatologist Amy Kassouf. While it may seem counterintuitive to apply oil to already oily skin, many people have found that certain types of face oils can help reduce acne and improve the overall appearance of their skin. Sharing her opinion of face oils, our contributor Ollie Wertheim, says, “From an organic skincare formulator's perspective, essential and natural carrier oils effective in treating acne include jojoba oil, grapeseed oil, and tea tree oil. Jojoba oil closely resembles the skin's natural sebum, helping to balance oil production without clogging pores. Grapeseed oil is lightweight and rich in linoleic acid, which can help regulate sebum production and prevent breakouts. Tea tree oil possesses antimicrobial properties that target acne-causing bacteria, making it a valuable addition to formulations aimed at treating acne while maintaining a holistic and organic approach to skincare.”

However, finding a good face oil can be a daunting task as the wrong product can worsen your acne. Hence, we have shortlisted 14 top-rated products so that you can choose the right one for your skin type.

14 Best Face Oils for Acne

Discover the secret to beautiful, healthy-looking skin with this face oil for acne by Palmer’s. Enriched with a blend of powerful ingredients, this lightweight, non-greasy formula absorbs quickly and leaves your skin feeling soft, smooth, and supple. With the power of pure cocoa butter, this facial oil is packed with antioxidants and essential fatty acids that help to protect the skin from environmental stressors and improve its overall appearance. Plus, the vitamin E infused in it, helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, while retinol helps to even out skin tone and texture (1).

Pros
  • Vegan
  • Cruelty-free
  • Dermatologist-approved
  • Non-comedogenic
  • Hypoallergenic
  • Lightweight
Cons
  • May cause dry patches
  • Thin texture
  • Best for A.M. And P.M

    Ancient Greek Remedy Oil

    Ancient Greek Remedy Oil
  • Treat yourself to the luxurious and all-natural Ancient Greek Remedy Oil, and experience the power of nature's best ingredients. This all-natural skincare solution is made with a blend of organic cold-pressed olive, lavender, almond, and grapeseed oils, along with vitamin E, that is perfect for use on both the face and body. This nourishing oil is rich in antioxidants and essential fatty acids, which work together to nourish and hydrate your skin, leaving it feeling soft, supple, and rejuvenated. It's also great for treating dry and damaged skin, as well as reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

    Pros
    • Climate-pledge friendly
    • Vegan
    • Cruelty-free
    • Pesticide-free
    • GMO-free
    • Can be used both day and night
    Cons
    • Overpowering smell
    • Pricey
  • Best Unscented Formula

    Murad Multi-Vitamin Infusion Facial Oil

    Murad Multi-Vitamin Infusion Facial Oil
  • This vitamin-rich facial oil is bound to leave you with glowing and dewy skin. It is a powerhouse of 6 vitamins – vitamins A through F that team up together to combat the signs of aging, boost hydration, protect the skin from free radical damage, balance pH levels of the skin, soothe redness, and improve skin tone. Its multi-functional formula effortlessly blends into the skin, leaving you with brighter and softer skin. Apply a thin layer of the oil onto your skin and see fine lines getting diminished and skin getting glowy in 4 weeks. 

    Pros
    • Anti-aging benefits
    • Vitamin-rich formula
    • Suitable for sensitive skin
    • Dermatologist-recommended
    • Lightweight formula
    • Vegan
    Cons
    • Slightly expensive
  • Convenient Pump Bottle

    PURA D'OR Organic Rosehip Seed Oil

    PURA D'OR Organic Rosehip Seed Oil
  • Trust the power of this facial oil for acne by PURA D’OR to give you a clear complexion. This premium-grade oil is 100% pure and organic, derived from the seeds of wild-grown rosehip plants. It is rich in antioxidants and essential fatty acids, which help nourish and protect your skin against environmental stressors while replenishing the lipid barrier of your skin. It is non-greasy and absorbs easily into your skin, making it perfect for all skin types. Besides, its powerful anti-aging properties help reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots, while also improving skin texture and tone.

    Pros
    • Vegan
    • Cruelty-free
    • Non-GMO
    • USDA certified organic
    • Climate pledge friendly
    • Convenient pump bottle
    Cons
    • Strong smell
    • May cause breakouts
  • Perfect for All Skin And Hair Types

    Kate Blanc Rosehip Seed Oil

    Kate Blanc Rosehip Seed Oil
  • Add this rosehip seed oil by Kate Blanc to your daily skincare routine to achieve a healthy, youthful, and glowing complexion. This skincare solution will leave your skin feeling supple and radiant. It is an all-natural oil sourced from organic rosehip seeds. This face oil for acne contains high levels of antioxidants, vitamins, and essential fatty acids that work together to nourish and protect your skin. This oil is perfect for all skin types and can be used as a daily moisturizer or as a targeted treatment for blemishes, fine lines, and wrinkles. Furthermore, its fast-absorbing properties ensure that your skin is left feeling moisturized and rejuvenated without any oily residue.

    Pros
    • Climate-pledge friendly
    • 100% pure
    • Plant-based ingredients
    • Non-greasy
    • Non-comedogenic
    • Suitable for all skin types and hair
    Cons
    • Heavy
    • Overpowering smell
  • Best for Long-lasting Moisture

    Gya Labs Organic Jojoba Oil for Skin

    Gya Labs Organic Jojoba Oil for Skin
  • Experience the benefits of this face oil for acne-prone skin and achieve a healthy, radiant complexion. This luxurious oil is cold-pressed from organic jojoba seeds and is packed with nutrients and benefits for your skin. Known for its skin-friendly properties, jojoba oil deeply penetrates the skin without leaving a greasy residue, which makes it perfect for all skin types. It nourishes and protects your skin barrier from environmental aggressors. This multi-purpose oil can be used as a daily moisturizer, a makeup remover, a hair conditioner, and much more!

    Pros
    • Non-GMO
    • Zero toxins
    • Cruelty-free
    • Vegan
    • Skin safe
    • Lightweight
    Cons
    • Poor packaging
    • Not very moisturizing
  • Best Lightweight Formulation

    Viva Naturals Organic Jojoba Oil

    Viva Naturals Organic Jojoba Oil
  • Viva Naturals Organic Jojoba Oil is a premium, all-natural face oil for acne that nourishes and revitalizes your skin, hair, and nails. Extracted from the seeds of the jojoba plant, this oil is rich in vitamins and antioxidants that promote healthy, radiant skin. With its non-greasy formula, it absorbs quickly into the skin, leaving it soft, supple, and perfectly hydrated. It's also perfect for taming frizzy hair, smoothing split ends, and promoting healthy nail growth.

    Pros
    • Climate-pledge friendly
    • Cruelty-free
    • USDA organic
    • Lightweight
    • Non-GMO
    • Hexane free
    Cons
    • A bit harsh
    • Difficult to use
  • Best Brightening Ingredients

    Sunday Riley C.E.O. Glow Vitamin C & Turmeric Face Oil

    Sunday Riley C.E.O. Glow Vitamin C & Turmeric Face Oil
  • Experience your most radiant skin with this best face oil for acne-prone skin from Sunday Riley. This potent formula is packed with Vitamin C and turmeric, which work together to even out skin tone, reduce signs of aging, and promote a radiant, healthy-looking complexion. The lightweight, non-greasy texture absorbs quickly into the skin, leaving it soft, supple, and smooth. To boot, this face oil is free of parabens, sulfates, or phthalates — a clean and effective addition to your skincare routine.

    Pros
    • Clinically-proven ingredients
    • Cruelty-free
    • Zero waste oil process
    • Non-irritating
    • Unscented
    • Perfect for daytime use
    Cons
    • Not for sensitive skin
    • Expensive
  • Best Pocket-friendly Product

    Rejuve Naturals Skin Renewing Certified Organic Vitamin E Oil

    Rejuve Naturals Skin Renewing Certified Organic Vitamin E Oil
  • Made with the finest, certified organic ingredients, this vitamin E oil is a highly effective way to help improve the overall appearance of your skin. Rich in antioxidants, this oil works to repair and protect your skin from damage caused by free radicals, while also helping to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. You can use this as a daily moisturizer or a targeted treatment for pimples and hormonal zits.

    Pros
    • Climate-pledge friendly
    • Vegan
    • GMO-free
    • Pesticide-free
    • USDA organic
    • Affordable
    Cons
    • Scented
    • Poor packaging
  • Jeune Naturelle Organic Rosehip Seed Oil

    Jeune Naturelle Organic Rosehip Seed Oil
  • Give your skin the nourishment and care it deserves with this face oil for acne. Extracted from the seeds of the wild rosehip plant that grows in the Carpathian mountains, this rejuvenating oil offers the best for your skin. It is rich in essential fatty acids, vitamins, and antioxidants that help nourish and pamper the skin. This oil is ideal for all skin types and it helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and other signs of aging.

    Pros
    • 100 % natural ingredients
    • Non-GMO
    • Paraben-free
    • No fragrances
    • No added fillers
    • No additives
    Cons
    • May leave an orange stain
    • Poor packaging
  • Best USDA-certified Organic

    Beauty by Earth Balance & Restore Luxury Face Oil

    Beauty by Earth Balance & Restore Luxury Face Oil
  • This premium oil for acne-prone skin delivers nourishing and rejuvenating benefits to your skin. This luxurious face oil is made with a blend of natural ingredients that work together to restore your skin's radiance and balance. With ingredients like jojoba oil, olive leaf extract, argan oil, rosehip seed extract, and essential oils, this face oil helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, improve skin elasticity, and promote a radiant, youthful complexion. Indulge in the luxurious, nourishing, and hydrating benefits of Beauty by Earth's Balance & Restore Luxury Face Oil - your skin will thank you.

    Pros
    • Climate pledge friendly
    • Cruelty-free
    • Vegan
    • USDA certified organic
    • Paraben free
    • No mineral oil
    Cons
    • May cause dryness
    • Overpriced
  • Sunday Riley Luna Sleeping Night Oil

    Sunday Riley Luna Sleeping Night Oil
  • This facial oil for acne is the ultimate solution to waking up with a rejuvenated and radiant complexion. This luxurious oil is formulated with a blend of retinol and blue tansy, which work together to improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone. The nourishing ingredients deeply penetrate the skin while you sleep, leaving you with a smoother, brighter, and firmer complexion when you wake up. With regular use, you will wake up to a brighter, smoother, more radiant complexion with Sunday Riley.

    Pros
    • Clinically-proven ingredients
    • Cruelty-free
    • B-Corp certified
    • Zero waste oil process
    • Non-irritating
    • Unscented
    Cons
    • Overpriced
    • Poor packaging
  • Sunday Riley Juno Antioxidant + Superfood Face Oil

    Sunday Riley Juno Antioxidant + Superfood Face Oil
  • This nutrient-rich face oil for acne-prone skin is formulated to deliver a glowing complexion. It is a high-performance oil that is infused with a blend of cold-pressed seed oils, including superfoods like blueberry, cranberry, and raspberry, along with antioxidant-rich botanicals like broccoli seed oil and carrot seed oil. The lightweight, fast-absorbing formula deeply nourishes and hydrates the skin, while helping to protect against environmental stressors and free radical damage. Regular use of this can help promote a smooth, even skin tone and a youthful, glowing complexion. This multi-tasking oil can be used alone or layered under your favorite moisturizer for an extra boost of nourishment.

    Pros
    • Clinically-proven ingredients
    • Cruelty-free
    • Non-irritating
    • Sustainable
    • B-Corp certified
    Cons
    • Very thick
    • Overpowering smell
  • Beauty Foundry Clarifying Tea Tree Facial Oil

    Beauty Foundry Clarifying Tea Tree Facial Oil
  • Trust in the power of nature and try this face oil for acne for clearer, healthier skin. This facial oil is carefully crafted with a blend of tea tree oil, jojoba oil, and grapeseed oil, all of which work together to deeply nourish, hydrate, and clarify the skin. The tea tree oil provides a powerful dose of antioxidants that help to fight free radicals and promote healthy skin. This clarifying facial oil is suitable for all skin types. It helps to balance the skin's natural oils, reduce the appearance of blemishes, and promote a clear and radiant complexion. With continued use, you will notice a significant improvement in the overall appearance and health of your skin.

    Pros
    • Cruelty-free
    • Natural ingredients
    • No artificial fragrances
    • No harsh chemicals
    • Conscious sourcing
    • Lightweight
    Cons
    • Strong smell
    • Poor packaging

    Now that you’ve seen our product recommendations for the best face oils for acne, let us see the following buying guide and steps to use to shop wisely and make the best of the product.

    What to Consider When Selecting a Face Oil for Acne?

    With so many different types of face oils available on the market, it can be challenging to know what to look for and which one will work best for you. Here are some crucial factors to consider when selecting a face oil for acne:

    Skin type: The first thing to consider when buying face oil for acne is your skin type. Different face oils work best for different skin types. For example, if you have oily skin, you should look for face oils that are lightweight and non-comedogenic. On the other hand, if you have dry skin, you should look for face oils that are rich in fatty acids and antioxidants.

    Ingredients: The ingredients in the face oil are also important to consider. Look for face oils that are free from fragrances, artificial colors, and preservatives, as these can irritate the skin and worsen acne. Instead, look for natural ingredients, such as tea tree oil, jojoba oil, and rosehip oil, which are effective in managing acne.

    Texture: The texture of the face oil you choose can also make a difference. If you have oily skin, you may want to look for a lightweight, fast-absorbing oil. If you have dehydrated skin, you may want to look for a richer, more nourishing oil.

    Price: The price of the face oil is also an important factor to consider. While some face oils can be very expensive, there are also many affordable options available. Look for face oils that are within your budget, but also make sure that they meet the other criteria mentioned above.

    By following these tips, you can find one of the best face oils for acne that will help you maintain healthy and youthful-looking skin.

    How to use face oil for acne?

    Before applying face oil, it’s important to cleanse your face thoroughly. Use a gentle cleanser to remove any dirt, oil, or makeup from your skin. Pat your face dry with a clean towel.

    1. Take a few drops of face oil on your fingertips and gently massage it into your skin. Be careful not to apply too much oil as this can make your skin greasy. Start with a small amount and increase if needed.

    2. After applying the face oil, it’s important to use a moisturizer to seal in the oil and provide additional hydration to your skin. Look for a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer that won’t clog your pores.

    3. Consistency is key when it comes to using face oil for acne. Use it regularly, preferably twice a day, to see the best results. Over time, you should notice a visible improvement in your skin’s texture and appearance.

    Face oils can be a beneficial addition to a skincare routine for those with acne-prone skin. Certain oils, such as tea tree and jojoba oil, have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that can help reduce the appearance of acne and prevent future breakouts. However, find the best face oil for acne and use it in moderation to avoid clogging pores. Additionally, continue with a consistent and well-rounded skincare routine, including cleansing and moisturizing, to fully support the health of your skin. All in all, incorporating a face oil into your routine can be a helpful tool in managing acne and promoting healthy, clear skin.

    Contributor: Ollie Wertheim, Founder and Chief Formulator, Sensitive Skin LLC

    FAQ's

    Is facial oil good for pimples?
    Using facial oil for pimples can be beneficial for some individuals depending on the type of oil and their skin type. Oils that are non-comedogenic and have anti-inflammatory properties, such as tea tree oil and jojoba oil, may help to reduce acne and calm inflammation. However, it is important to patch test first and consult with a dermatologist if you have severe acne or sensitive skin. It's also important to remember that facial oil should not be used as a substitute for a proper skincare routine, including cleansing and moisturizing.
    What oils should you avoid for acne?
    Certain oils can exacerbate acne-prone skin and should be avoided. These include oils high in oleic acid, such as coconut oil and palm oil, as well as oils high in comedogenicity, such as wheat germ oil and cocoa butter. It's important to check the ingredient list of your skincare products and avoid these oils if you have acne-prone skin. Instead, opt for non-comedogenic oils such as jojoba oil, grapeseed oil, and tea tree oil, which can actually help to soothe and heal acne-prone skin.
    What heals acne scars the fastest?
    Several treatments show promise in healing acne scars quickly. However, the most effective treatment will depend on the severity of the scars and the individual's skin type. Consult with a dermatologist to determine the best course of treatment for your specific case. Some proven methods include using topical retinoids, face oils, chemical peels, laser therapy, and micro-needling. Maintain a consistent skincare routine and avoid picking at any acne to prevent further scarring. With patience and proper treatment, it is possible to reduce the appearance of acne scars and achieve smoother, clearer skin.
    How can I fade my acne scars in 3 days?
    Unfortunately, it is not possible to completely fade acne scars in just three days. However, there are some steps you can take to help reduce their appearance over time. These include consistently using sunscreen, practicing good skincare habits such as cleansing and exfoliating, and using products with ingredients like vitamin C and retinoids which can help stimulate collagen production. Remember that acne scars can take time to fade and may require a combination of treatments, so be patient and consistent with your skincare routine.

    Why Trust Pinkvilla

    Anoushka, our skincare expert, suggests using face oils for people with oily and acne-prone skin to get rid of blemishes and get even-toned skin. Being a skincare coach, she knows that acne is not easy to deal with, and using the wrong products on acne-prone skin can make the symptoms worse. Therefore, she has meticulously created this list of the best face oils that can help reduce the appearance of acne and also fight the signs of aging. Palmer's Cocoa Butter Formula Skin Therapy Oil for Face is her personal favorite — it is infused with gentle ingredients that soothe the skin, reduce the appearance of fine lines, and make the skin soft. Plus, its hypoallergenic formula makes it suitable to use for people with sensitive skin.

    Our product experts study the specifications of every product we suggest and try them out to bring what’s proven to be worthy of your money, time, and energy. We also have subject matter experts from various fields like Fashion, Skincare, Haircare, Home Decor, and Health & Fitness onboard to make sure our suggestions are credible and trustworthy. You can trust Select to be your faithful shopping guide for all the right reasons

    1. Retinoids in the treatment of skin aging: an overview of clinical efficacy and safety

    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2699641/

    Author BIO
    reviewer
    Anoushka Sinha
    Skincare Coach & Writer

    Anoushka is certified in Professional Skincare and is a Mass Media (Journalism) graduate from Mumbai University. As a More