One debate we see often is whether a face oil should be used before or after a moisturiser. Which side do you sit on? In today’s post, we’re going to be sharing how to layer your skincare to get the most from each of your products and leave you with happy, healthy skin.
WHAT COMES FIRST: SERUM, MOISTURISER OR FACE OIL?
Most of us are confident when it comes to the first couple of steps of our skincare routine. Cleanse first, then tone. However, what follows this can create some confusion as to the order in which to layer skincare, particularly as serums and moisturisers can both be oil-based.
Once you have used a toner (we like to create our own rosewater and sweet orange floral water blend), the next step is always a serum, followed by a moisturiser and finishing with face oil. The same applies to keep your skin glowing after a facial. We like to use lighter, water-based products first, patting them in and leaving them for a minute or so to fully absorb before completing our routine with two to three drops of our face oil massaged in (we find this to be the best way to use a face oil as massaging will push nutrients and moisture deeper into the skin).
We also often get asked whether to use a face oil, face serum or both. As the serum will leave the skin slightly damp, this enables the face oil to trap in moisture so if your skin is looking and feeling dry, and/or you are wanting to target a specific skin concern, we would recommend both.
We do not recommend a moisturiser after a face oil. Moisturisers are most commonly water-based and a face oil may prevent the moisturiser from penetrating skin by actually repelling it as this acts as a sealant – creating a barrier and locking in moisture. This is also why we often recommend oil-based serums to be followed by a face oil and not a moisturiser.
Quite often, a moisturiser is not required at all when using a face oil, but this can only be determined by your observation of your skin and what it needs. If it’s really in need of a boost, in the mornings, you may like to add a drop or two of face oil into your moisturiser or use some face oil as a pre-treatment before you jump in the shower.
*TOP TIP*
Be mindful of the actives that are in each product, specifically serums and moisturisers, as some are not meant to be mixed. For example, mixing Vitamin C and AHAs/BHAs – the acids will destabilise the pH of the vitamin C rendering it ineffective. These combined can also dry skin out and exacerbate sensitivity. Similarly, retinol and AHAs should not be mixed as these can leave your skin vulnerable to UV rays.
You might also like to read:
Should You Cleanse Your Face In The Morning?
The Benefits Of Cleansing Your Skin In The Morning
How Long Should You Use Skincare Before Giving Up?
HOW DO YOU LAYER YOUR SKINCARE PRODUCTS FOR BEST RESULTS?
We’d love for you to tell us in a comment below!
Sources:
Here Are The Skincare Ingredients You Should Never Mix Together, Woman & Home
