Face Oil vs Face Serum: How and When To Use Them?
As a favorite skincare brand to thousands across the globe, one of our major duties is to provide professional guidance to questions asked by our clients. One way we perform this duty is through the free consultation we offer on our various social media handles. On the verge of carrying out this function, one question that seemed consistent was “What is the difference between face serum and face oil? Which is better and how should one use them?”
Seeing this need, we’ve put together a detailed guide on the difference between face serum vs face oil, which one to choose, and how to use them for maximum hydration and skin nourishment. Grab a bite and join us as we journey through these skincare items and what you know about them.
Let’s take it away!
What are Face Serums?
Face serums are lightweight, concentrated liquids formulated with active ingredients to target a specific skin concern, such as wrinkles, rough texture, or uneven skin tone. Since they are designed to penetrate deeply and quickly into the skin, they usually come in thinner textures or smaller molecules. Thus, making it suitable for both AM and PM skincare routines.
Most face serums are considered lightweight because they are water-based. Aside from that, they also contain hydrating and nourishing ingredients, such as Hyaluronic Acid Serum and Vitamin C Serum, making them ideal for skin hydration and nourishment. Another common ingredient found in most face serums is glycolic acid. This helps to break down the bonds holding the dead outer layer of the skin cells.
In general, the functions of any face serum are determined by the active ingredient it contains. So, before choosing the serum to use, consider the skin concern you wish to target. At Gold Cosmetics, we offer some of the industry's best face serums. Kindly check this page to explore them.
What are Face Oils?
Face oils are referred to as oil-based skincare liquids designed to be applied on the face. To reduce the risk of clogging pores, they mainly contain non-comedogenic oils and essential oils. To boost their potency, some of them also include plant extracts and natural antioxidants.
Furthermore, most face oils are packed with essential fatty acids necessary to boost the skin barrier, nourish the skin, and lock in hydration from previous skincare steps. Aside from that, they also provide an excellent glowing finish on the skin. If you are looking to purchase a good face oil for your skin, one thing to consider is the type of oil used. Please ensure they are non-comedogenic to reduce the chances of clogged pores or breakouts.
For instance, you may look out for Rose Hip oil which is contained in our Roza Mosqueta. This oil is quite beneficial to people with dry skin. Another oil to consider is the emu oil which is contained in our Omega 369 oil. This oil provides anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits.
Difference Between Face Oil vs Face Serum
The major difference between face oil and face serum is obviously one is oil-based and the other is water-based. Also, unlike oils, serums are considered a targeted mode of treatment. They contain a higher concentration of active ingredients designed to address a specific skin concern. That means they are usually focused on a particular issue.
Whereas, oils are a lot more generic such as that most oils are designed to hydrate, moisturize, and nourish the skin. Oils also provide excellent reinforcement to the skin barrier, since some of them contain essential fatty acids. Finally, they also help in locking moisture.
So, if you are looking to target a specific skin issue, face serum is the way to go. But, if you are more interested in hydrating and giving your skin a shiny look, you may want to consider face oils. However, that does not mean you can’t use both of them together. That leads us to the next section.
How To Layer Face Oil and Face Serums?
Usually, face oils are highly recommended for people with dry skin, this includes eczema and rosacea patients. Since face oils are occlusive and can lock in nutrients or moisture, they are best applied as the final step of your skincare routine after using a moisturizer. The main idea here is to lock in the needed stuff and lock out the pollutants.
On the other hand, how to use face serums is mostly dependent on the skin concerns you wish to target. Since they are lightweight, they are best used after cleansing and toning before applying moisturizer or sunscreen. Simply apply enough to cover your face in a thin layer.
While you can still use both together, we recommend the #1 rule of applying products which are from lightest to heaviest. That means, applying serum first, adding in your moisturizer, and on top of it, pat it off with a few drops of facial oil. Another way is also to use one in your AM routine and the other in your PM routine. If you are choosing this, we recommend applying serum in the morning because it is lighter and face oil at night time to nourish your skin.
The Bottom Line
In conclusion, whether you are using facial oil or serum, we advocate for a minimalistic approach. Never over-apply these products in a way that will clog your pores or even trigger a breakout. Rather, go for moderation and simplicity. Also, before buying them, study the ingredients list to ensure they are all non-comedogenic. Using heavy products will likely block your pores.
Our second tip is to customize what you use based on your skin type and specific skin concerns. This is why we invite you to schedule a free online consultation with our expert, in case you don’t know where to begin. Alternatively, you can visit any of our physical locations.
Finally, face oil and face serum are all important in every skincare routine but it all depends on what you are looking to achieve. While you may use both together, remember to apply the #1 rule in your skincare which is applying from lightest to heaviest. If you have any follow-up questions, kindly click below to connect with our professionals online.
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