Frankincense Face Oil in Your Skincare Routine
Discover how to layer frankincense face oil into your daily ritual for a soft, radiant-looking complexion and a more elegant self-care moment.

Frankincense Face Oil in Your Skincare Routine
By the VitalResin Team β Skincare & doTERRA enthusiasts
You just bought a beautiful little bottle of frankincense oil and now you're standing in front of the mirror wondering where it fits between your cleanser and moisturizer. That pause is completely normal. The short answer is that frankincense face oil works best when applied after water-based products and before heavier creams, ideally while your skin is still slightly damp, using just one to two drops pressed gently into the face and neck. In our experience, it slots beautifully into both morning and evening rituals as a botanical glow step. For a deeper look at what makes this oil so loved in beauty circles, our guide on frankincense face oil benefits covers the cosmetic appeal in detail. This article focuses on the practical how-to: where to place it, how much to use, and how to adjust it for your skin type.
The Classic Method: Layer by Layer
Facial oils perform best when applied in the right order. A simple rule we rely on is thinnest to thickest. Water-based steps hydrate first, then oils help lock that in and add a soft, dewy finish.
Here is a straightforward evening routine:
- Cleanse with a gentle face wash to remove makeup and the day's build-up.
- Mist or pat your face with a little water or a hydrating toner.
- Warm one drop of Frankincense between your fingertips.
- Press the oil into your cheeks, forehead, and chin rather than rubbing.
- Wait a minute, then apply your moisturizer if your skin still wants more.
- Finish with a soft massage around the jaw and temples.
For a readier texture, Frankincense Touch comes pre-diluted in a rollerball and glides on smoothly. Many of our readers prefer it for daytime use because it feels lighter and is easier to control.
Choosing Your Base: Dilution Makes the Difference
Frankincense is often used on its own, but diluting it in a carrier oil creates a more spreadable face oil and stretches a precious bottle further. The right base depends on what your skin feels like it needs.
| Carrier Option | Texture | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Jojoba oil | Light, fast-absorbing | Oily or combination skin |
| Sweet almond oil | Medium, softening | Normal or dry skin |
| Rosehip seed oil | Richer, nourishing | Mature or dehydrated skin |
| Unscented lotion | Creamy, familiar | Sensitive skin types |
A simple ratio we recommend most often is one drop of frankincense to about four drops of carrier oil for the face. For a more aromatic experience, try blending with Lavender or Geranium. A touch of Ylang Ylang adds a floral, spa-like note that feels especially elegant at night.
Blending Frankincense Into Your Ritual
One of the simplest ways to make frankincense a daily habit is to pair it with products you already love.
Try these combinations:
- Add one drop to your evening Immortelle serum for a richer finish.
- Mix a drop into HD Clear if you enjoy its fresh, herbal scent.
- Layer it over Yarrow Pom for a botanical glow ritual.
- Alternate nights with Sandalwood when you want a warmer, woodsier profile.
Always patch test before first use. Apply a small amount to the inner forearm and wait to see how your skin responds. And while frankincense is not photosensitive, other citrus oils like Bergamot or Lemon are, so if you blend them in, keep that ritual for the evening or avoid direct sun for about 12 hours after use.
FAQ
Can I use frankincense face oil every day?
Yes, many people use one or two drops once daily, usually in the evening. If your skin tolerates it well, a morning application can also work, especially with a diluted Touch formula.
Do I apply frankincense oil before or after moisturizer?
Apply it before a heavier cream, or instead of moisturizer if your skin already feels comfortable. Oil helps seal in water-based hydration, so the order is cleanser, toner or mist, oil, then an optional cream.
Does frankincense oil clog pores?
Frankincense itself is not considered comedogenic, and a light carrier like jojoba can feel quite breathable. That said, every skin is different, so patch testing and starting with one drop is the safest approach.
Can I mix frankincense with other face oils?
Yes, it blends beautifully with lavender, geranium, sandalwood, and ylang ylang. Keep the total to no more than two or three drops for the whole face.
What is the easiest way to apply frankincense oil evenly?
Warm a drop between your fingertips, then press it gently into damp skin. Pressing rather than rubbing helps distribute a small amount without tugging.
Conclusion
Frankincense face oil is a simple, elegant addition to a skincare ritual when used in the right order and at the right dilution. Start with one drop, layer it over damp skin, and let the botanical warmth turn a quick routine into a small moment of care. Your skin may simply feel softer, look more radiant, and carry a quiet glow.
This content is for general information only and is not medical advice. Essential oils are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease; consult a qualified healthcare professional before use.