Facial oils in winter won't clog your pores — just layer them right

Facial oils in winter are fine — and most won’t clog your pores if you pick the right ones and layer them correctly.

Yes, you can use facial oils in winter without clogging pores. The key is choosing non-comedogenic oils — jojoba, squalane, rosehip, or argan all score low on the comedogenic scale. Avoid coconut oil or shea butter if you’re prone to breakouts. The cold dry air already stresses your barrier, so an oil can actually help by sealing in moisture.

Here’s the layering trick most people get wrong: oil goes after moisturizer, not before. Moisturizer delivers humectants (glycerin, hyaluronic acid) into your skin. Oil then sits on top to lock everything in. If you put oil first, it creates a barrier that prevents your moisturizer from absorbing. For winter barrier support, apply moisturizer to damp skin, then pat a few drops of oil over it.

If you’re acne-prone, start with one or two nights a week. Your skin might love it, but some oils (even “safe” ones) can cause purging. Give it a week or two.

Your pores will stay clear, and your moisture barrier will stop screaming at you.