As the seasons change, so should our skincare. Summer brings increased sun exposure, heat, and humidity—all of which impact how our skin behaves and what it needs.
For many, this means dealing with excess oil, sun sensitivity, or inflammation. But with the right plant oils, you can support your skin through the season—keeping it balanced, nourished, and resilient.
Here are a few of my favorite oils for summer skincare—and what makes each one special.
Camellia Seed Oil
A true dry oil, Camellia is known for its elegant, light texture and gentle astringency. It helps calm overactive oil production, making it ideal for oily or combination skin in summer. Contains plant sterols and antioxidants, it supports skin health while absorbing quickly and cleanly.
Watermelon Seed Oil
Watermelon seed oil is a light, easily absorbed oil that contains a high percentage of linoleic acid. This makes it especially helpful for skin that tends to become congested or unbalanced during warmer weather. It offers a smooth, non-greasy feel on the skin and includes plant compounds such as sterols and carotenes that support overall skin function—without feeling heavy.
Hazelnut Oil
Naturally astringent and lightly toning, Hazelnut Oil is often used to refine pores and support oily or acne-prone skin. Though high in oleic acid, it absorbs easily and offers a dry-touch feel—making it a great addition to summer blends.
Pomegranate Seed Oil
With its thick texture and high concentration of punicic acid, Pomegranate Seed Oil is deeply restorative for aging or thinning skin. It helps firm, calm inflammation, and protect against oxidative stress—making it a great choice for sun-exposed or maturing summer skin.
Amaranth Seed Oil
Amaranth is prized for its high squalene content, a compound also found in our skin’s natural oils. It’s soothing, antioxidant-rich, and especially helpful for calming irritation, supporting barrier repair, and hydrating dry or inflamed skin.
Nigella (Black Seed) Oil
Known for its distinctive scent and powerful anti-inflammatory profile, Nigella adds healing support for blemish-prone or irritated summer skin, though it doesn’t have a dry feel. It contains a mix of tocopherols, squalene, and carotenoids for skin resilience and recovery.
How to Use These Oils
Many of these oils can be used on their own, but I often recommend combining two or three into a simple summer facial oil tailored to your skin’s needs. If you’re new to formulating, start with small volumes and test how your skin responds.
You’ll find some oils absorb quickly, while others offer a protective cushion. With the right combination, you can create a blend that feels light, protective, and perfectly in sync with the season.
Want to Learn More?
In our Facial Oils for Summer Skincare workshop, I walk you through three summer formulas—each one designed for different skin needs, from oil control to collagen support.
You’ll get clear insights, helpful demonstrations, and practical ways to start working with oils this summer—whether you’re just getting started or looking to refine your formulation skills.