The Worst Oils to Use on Your Face (And the Ones Your Skin Actually Loves)

Let’s clear something up: just because it says natural doesn’t mean it’s good for your skin. Especially when it comes to facial oils. Not all oils are created equal—and slathering the wrong one on your face can invite breakouts, irritation, and clogged pores.

If you've ever wondered why your “all-natural” skincare routine is causing more chaos than calm, the culprit could be sitting right in your medicine cabinet. Let’s break down the worst oils to use on your face—and the ones that actually know how to treat your skin right.

The “No, Thank You” List: Oils to Avoid on Your Face

Think twice when using these oils alone on your face.

1. Coconut Oil

Yes, it’s popular. Yes, it smells good. But it’s also highly comedogenic, which means it clogs pores. If you’re acne-prone or have oily skin, coconut oil not your friend.

2. Wheat Germ Oil

Rich in vitamin E—but also rich in pore-clogging properties. It has a comedogenic rating of 5 (that’s the top of the scale), making it one of the worst oils for breakout-prone skin.

3. Marula Oil

Marula oil has a comedogenic rating of 3–4, meaning it has a moderate to high likelihood of clogging pores—especially for acne-prone or oily skin types. While it's rich in antioxidants and fatty acids, its heavy texture can trap bacteria and sebum, leading to breakouts and congestion.

4. Palm Oil

Aside from the environmental red flags, palm oil is heavy, greasy, and not designed for delicate facial skin. It can contribute to congestion and dullness.

5. Mineral Oil

It might be “clean” in terms of being odorless and colorless, but mineral oil is a byproduct of petroleum. It creates a barrier on your skin that traps moisture—and everything else. If you want to suffocate your pores, this is how.

The Skin-Loving Oils Your Face Will Thank You For

Here’s where the skincare magic happens. These oils are lightweight, non-comedogenic, and loaded with benefits.

1. Jojoba Oil

The MVP of facial oils. Jojoba closely mimics your skin’s natural sebum, making it ultra-compatible with almost all skin types. It balances oil production, calms inflammation, and moisturizes without clogging pores.

2. Rosehip Seed Oil

Loaded with vitamins A and C, rosehip oil is a natural source of retinol—helping to brighten, boost collagen, and reduce fine lines. It’s a go-to for dull or mature skin.

3. Seabuckthorn Oil

Sea buckthorn oil is a rockstar in the skincare world. It's extracted from the berries or seeds of the Hippophae rhamnoides plant  and is rich in omega-3 and 6.

4. Castor Oil

Castor oil is rich in ricinoleic acid, a unique fatty acid with powerful anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that can help calm irritated skin and fight acne-causing bacteria. Its comedogenic rating of 1 means it’s unlikely to clog pores, making it a surprisingly effective option for deep cleansing and moisturizing.

5. Hemp Seed Oil

Non-comedogenic and rich in fatty acids, hemp seed oil calms inflammation, hydrates, and helps balance oily skin. Yes, balance—not overload.

Product Highlight: Pomegranate Renewing Cream

Need a facial oil that doesn’t clog, irritate, or over-hydrate? Our Pomegranate Renewing Cream is a curated blend of skin-loving oils like Seabuckthorn—designed to give your skin a nourished, radiant finish without the greasy aftermath. Whether you’re dry, oily, or somewhere in between, this bottle is your skin’s new BFF.

Shop Garden Club now to explore the full collection.