Applying Face Oil Before or After Using Moisturizer: What's the Right Order?
When it comes to maintaining a healthy and hydrated complexion, understanding the order of skincare products is crucial. A common question that arises is whether to apply face oil before or after moisturizer. In this article, we'll explore the benefits of applying moisturizer first, followed by face oil as the final step in your skincare routine.
Moisturizers are the cornerstone of any effective skincare regimen, hydrating the skin and protecting it from external aggressors. To reap the full benefits of moisturizers, they should be applied to clean, dry skin. After moisturizing, the next step is to apply face oil.
Facial oils act as occlusive agents, sealing in moisture and all previously applied products, including moisturizer, to enhance their hydrating effects. These oils absorb quickly and provide additional hydration without clogging pores or leaving a greasy residue.
Face oils are concentrated products designed to nourish the skin and seal in moisture. Examples include argan oil, rosehip oil, jojoba oil, and squalane. Some facial oils can be used alone as moisturizers, but when layering products, the oil should generally come after cream moisturizers or serums.
To ensure effective layering, apply a small amount of oil after your serum but before your moisturizer. Since most oils are heavier and thicker than moisturizers, they should be applied after moisturizer. Understanding the principles of skincare layering can help you maximize the benefits of both products.
The general rule of thumb in skincare is to apply products in order of texture, from lightest to heaviest. Lightweight oils, like argan or grapeseed oil, are excellent options for those who prefer to layer oil under moisturizer. Lightweight oils, such as rosehip or marula oil, can be layered under moisturizers for added hydration without feeling heavy.
In humid climates, lightweight oils can be used to lock in hydration before moisturizers. In contrast, dry or cold environments may require heavier oils to protect against moisture loss. Heavier oils, like coconut or castor oil, are better suited for application after moisturizer to create an effective barrier.
Using the right amount of product is essential to avoid overwhelming the skin. For face oils, two to three drops are usually enough to cover the face and neck. Adjust the application order for specific skin concerns. For example, applying a calming oil before a moisturizer can help soothe irritation.
Allowing your moisturizer to absorb before applying oil is crucial for maximum hydration. By following this simple skincare routine, you can maintain hydration, support the skin barrier, and improve the overall effectiveness of your skincare routine.
One interesting fact to note is that face oils are particularly rich in ceramides, which are essential for maintaining the skin's barrier function. Jojoba oil, for instance, is particularly rich in ceramides, making it an excellent choice for those seeking to nourish and protect their skin.
In conclusion, applying moisturizer first and face oil last is a simple yet effective way to enhance the hydrating effects of your skincare routine. By understanding the principles of skincare layering, you can maximize the benefits of both products and maintain a healthy, radiant complexion.
[1] The Art of Skincare: Layering Your Products for Maximum Benefit [2] How to Layer Your Skincare Products for Maximum Benefits [3] The Ultimate Guide to Skincare Layering
- Moisturizers are crucial for a hydrated complexion, protecting the skin and should be applied after cleansing and before other skincare products.
- After applying moisturizer, face oils should be used as they act as occlusive agents, sealing in moisture and enhancing the hydrating effect of the applied products.
- Facial oils, like argan oil, rosehip oil, jojoba oil, and squalane, nourish the skin and should generally come after cream moisturizers or serums in a skincare routine.
- To maximize the benefits of face oils and moisturizers, apply a small amount of oil after your serum but before your moisturizer, considering the texture and specific skin concerns.
- In humid climates, lightweight oils can be used to lock in hydration before moisturizers, while dry or cold environments may require heavier oils to protect against moisture loss.
- The key is to apply products in order of texture, from lightest to heaviest, using just enough product to cover the face and neck, as using too much can overwhelm the skin.
- Interestingly, face oils are rich in ceramides, which are vital for maintaining the skin's barrier function, making them an excellent choice for nourishing and protecting the skin.
- By following this skincare routine that includes understanding the principles of skincare layering, you can maintain hydration, support the skin barrier, and improve the overall effectiveness of your skincare routine, contributing to your health-and-wellness, lifestyle, skin-care, fashion-and-beauty, and even food-and-drink and home-and-garden routines.
