Understanding skincare can be quite challenging, and selecting products suited to your skin type is not an easy task. In this post, we will compare face oils and face serums and explain which is better for you.

What is a facial serum?

Serums can be described as supplements for your skin! With their lightweight texture they are able to deeply penetrate the skin. The smaller molecular structure in serums is much smaller than those found in oils, moisturisers and lotions and allows them to deposit more powerful active ingredients into the deeper layers of the skin for a more targeted result. 

With their lightweight texture, serums should be applied directly after washing and toning your face. Apply the serum on to dry, cool skin to optimise absorption and wait until it is fully absorbed before proceeding with the next step of moisturisers, lotions or oils. 

What is a facial oil?

Facial oils are taking over the spotlight! With their rich and emollient texture they can provide a boost of nutrition and hydration to the skin. Facial oils are typically heavier than water based serums and depending on their formula, they may have additional benefits besides nourishing and strengthening the skin barrier, such as anti-inflammatory or antioxidant properties.

Although most facial oils only serve as a source of moisture and hydration, they can be just as important as serums in your skincare routine for a healthy, glowing complexion. With their rich texture and heavy molecular weight, facial oils should be applied as the last step of your skincare routine to seal in lighter-textured products.

Which one is a better option for your skin? 

This will always be solely based on your personal preferences and the demands of your skin! You don’t have to choose one over the other, you may use both. 

If your skin needs an extra layer of moisture, facial oils are ideal for this, whilst serums are ideal for targeting and addressing any immediate skin issues such as acne, rosacea, hyperpigmentation and so on. 

If you are going to include both into your skincare routine, remember the golden rule is to apply thinnest to thickest.