Facial Oils vs Moisturizers – What Goes First?

Understanding how to properly apply facial oils and moisturizers can make all the difference in achieving well-hydrated, glowing skin. This is especially important for women aged 20 to 35, who are often navigating changing skin concerns, from dryness to maintaining that all-important youthful radiance.

Let’s dive into why the order of application matters and how to get the most out of your skincare routine.

Why Moisturizing is a Must

Moisturizers are the cornerstone of a healthy skincare regimen. They work by supporting the skin’s natural moisture barrier, which acts as a shield against harmful environmental factors like pollution and UV rays.

Here’s why they’re so essential:

• Hydration: A good moisturizer replenishes the skin with much-needed water, preventing dryness and flakiness.
• Protection: It reinforces the skin barrier, locking in hydration and preventing irritants from causing damage.
• Anti-aging: By maintaining the skin’s moisture balance, moisturizers help combat early signs of aging, such as fine lines and wrinkles.

Most moisturizers feature water-based formulations, which are designed to penetrate deep into the skin, delivering hydration and nutrients exactly where they’re needed.

Should You Use Facial Oil Before or After Moisturizer?

Now, onto the age-old debate: should facial oil come before or after moisturizer? The answer largely depends on the density of the products, your skin type, and your climate. Let’s break it down.

General Rule of Thumb

Dermatologists and skincare experts widely agree that facial oil should be applied after moisturizer. Why? Oils are thicker and create a protective layer that seals in the moisturizer’s benefits.

Think of it like this:

• Moisturizer hydrates and nourishes the skin.
• Oil acts as a shield, locking in that hydration while adding an extra boost of nourishment.

The Science Behind the Sequence

1. Density Matters
   Oils are heavier than moisturizers and can penetrate through water-based products. However, the reverse doesn’t hold true—if you apply oil first, it can create a barrier that blocks your moisturizer from fully absorbing into the skin.
   
2. Hydration Lock-in
   Applying oil last is especially beneficial in dry or cold environments, as it helps prevent water loss and keeps your skin hydrated longer.
   
3. Skin-Specific Needs
   While applying oil after moisturizer is the norm, there are exceptions. Lightweight oils like squalane or rosehip can sometimes be applied first if your skin needs extra hydration or if you’re targeting specific concerns like dullness or acne.
   

What the Experts Say

• Dr. Robert Anolik, a dermatologist from NYU, recommends applying lighter, water-based moisturizers before oils to ensure maximum absorption (1).
• Healthline echoes this sentiment but also encourages experimenting with your routine (2). Every skin type is unique, and a bit of trial and error can help you discover what works best for you.
• L’Oréal Paris suggests layering products from thinnest to thickest consistency for optimal results (3).

When to Break the Rules

For some, breaking the rules can yield great results. If your moisturizer feels heavy or doesn’t absorb fully, you might benefit from applying a lightweight oil first. This technique can work well with oils like:

• Squalane: Perfect for oily or acne-prone skin.
• Jojoba: Mimics natural skin sebum and balances oil production.
• Rosehip: Rich in antioxidants and ideal for sensitive skin.

Pro Tip for Optimal Results

• Use clean hands or a fresh skincare tool to apply products.
• Allow each layer to fully absorb before applying the next.
• Always patch-test new products to avoid irritation.

Your skin deserves the best—pamper it, and it’ll glow with gratitude!

Conclusion: Find Your Perfect Routine

For women in their 20s and 30s, maintaining healthy, hydrated skin is about more than just following guidelines—it’s about understanding your skin’s unique needs. The general recommendation is to apply facial oils after moisturizer to seal in hydration and maximize your skincare benefits. However, don’t be afraid to experiment. Whether you’re battling winter dryness or looking for that summer glow, finding the right balance for your skin will help you achieve your best results.