Should I Use Oil When Doing Face Yoga?
When people ask me about face yoga, one of the first practical questions that comes up is: Should I use face oil when I practice? The answer isn’t the same for everyone, but after years of doing and teaching face yoga, I’ve found a rhythm that works beautifully — and it starts with listening to your own skin.
I like to think of face oil as a partner rather than a requirement. When I’m doing slow, gliding movements — especially ones that sweep along the jawline, neck, and cheeks — a light oil makes everything feel smoother. It keeps the skin from tugging while I sculpt and drain lymphatic fluid. That slip means less risk of pulling or stretching, which is exactly what we want to avoid when our goal is firm, toned skin.
But not every session calls for it. Some face yoga exercises rely on grip — tiny muscle activations where you need your fingertips to “catch” the skin and underlying muscles. Too much oil can make it hard to hold that connection. On days when I’m focused on strengthening (think smile-line lifts or brow lifts), I usually skip oil or wait until after to apply my moisturizer or serum.
If you’re new to face yoga, pay attention to how your skin responds. Some people notice more redness or sensitivity if they massage with dry skin; others break out if the oil is too heavy. My personal go-to is a few drops of a lightweight, non-comedogenic oil — I rotate between jojoba and squalane. They give just enough glide without leaving me greasy. If I’m doing a quick lunchtime practice or want my skin extra fresh before makeup, I’ll skip oil and just work on dry, clean skin.
Another thing I love about using oil during face yoga is the ritual. It slows me down. Instead of rushing through, I pause to warm the oil between my hands, breathe in the scent, and let the session feel indulgent. Face yoga isn’t only about muscles; it’s also about connection — to your own face, your mood, and the moment. That little sensory cue reminds me this is self-care, not another task on my list.
If you do use oil, keep it simple. Choose something your skin already loves. Heavy essential oils or overly fragranced blends can cause irritation, especially with the extra stimulation of massage. And a little goes a long way — two or three drops usually cover my whole face and neck.
So, should you use face oil when doing face yoga? Try both ways and notice how your face feels. For gliding massage, a touch of oil can make the practice safer and more luxurious. For muscle activation and lifting, bare skin is often best. Over time, you’ll know instinctively which sessions call for which approach. The goal isn’t perfection — it’s learning to work with your face, not against it. And that’s where the real magic of face yoga begins.
