Do You Put Face Oil On Before or After Moisturizer?

AvatarByTamika Rice General Lifestyle

When it comes to skincare, the order in which you apply your products can make all the difference in achieving a radiant and healthy complexion. One common question that often arises is: do you put face oil on before or after moisturizer? This seemingly simple step can impact how well your skin absorbs nutrients, retains moisture, and ultimately looks throughout the day.

Face oils have surged in popularity for their ability to nourish and protect the skin’s natural barrier, but integrating them correctly into your routine can be a bit confusing. With so many different skin types and product formulations available, understanding the best application method is essential for maximizing benefits without causing greasiness or breakouts.

In this article, we’ll explore the nuances of layering face oil and moisturizer, helping you unlock the secret to a glowing complexion. Whether you’re a skincare novice or a seasoned enthusiast, knowing when to apply face oil can elevate your routine and enhance your skin’s health and appearance.

Understanding the Correct Application Order

The general rule in skincare is to apply products from the thinnest to the thickest consistency to optimize absorption and efficacy. Face oils are typically denser and heavier than moisturizers, which influences their placement in your routine.

When deciding whether to apply face oil before or after moisturizer, consider the following factors:

  • Moisture Locking: Moisturizers primarily hydrate and sometimes contain occlusive agents that prevent water loss. Applying face oil after moisturizer can help seal in the hydration, creating a barrier that locks moisture into the skin.
  • Absorption: Applying oil before moisturizer may hinder the moisturizer’s absorption because the oil can create a barrier that blocks water-based products.
  • Skin Type: Those with oily or acne-prone skin may prefer lighter moisturizers followed by a small amount of oil to avoid clogging pores, while dry skin types might benefit from a richer oil applied last to enhance skin barrier repair.

How to Layer Face Oil and Moisturizer

To get the most out of both products, adhere to the following layering technique:

  • Start with a clean, toned face.
  • Apply any water-based serums or treatments.
  • Follow with a moisturizer suited to your skin type.
  • Finish with a few drops of face oil, gently pressing it into the skin.

This method ensures that the moisturizer hydrates the skin deeply, and the oil forms a protective layer on top, preventing moisture loss.

Exceptions and Special Cases

While the above guidance applies to most skincare routines, some products and formulations may require adjustments:

  • Facial Oils with Active Ingredients: If the oil contains active ingredients such as retinol or vitamin C, it may be beneficial to apply it before moisturizer to maximize penetration.
  • Multi-Use Oils: Some face oils are formulated to be used as primers or mixed with moisturizer. In such cases, follow the product instructions.
  • Heavy or Occlusive Oils: For very thick oils, applying them last is generally better to avoid a greasy feel.

Comparison of Application Orders

Application Order Pros Cons Best For
Face Oil Before Moisturizer
  • May enhance absorption of oil’s active ingredients
  • Useful if oil is lightweight and water-based
  • Moisturizer may not absorb well over oily layer
  • Potential for clogged pores if oil is heavy
 Lightweight oils, active ingredient oils, oily skin types
Face Oil After Moisturizer
  • Seals in hydration effectively
  • Prevents moisture loss
  • Creates smooth, protective barrier
  • May feel greasy if oil is too heavy
  • Not ideal if oil contains actives needing deep penetration
 Dry skin, normal skin, heavier oils, most general routines

Determining the Correct Order: Face Oil and Moisturizer

The general skincare principle is to apply products from the thinnest to the thickest consistency to maximize absorption and effectiveness. Face oils and moisturizers can vary widely in texture and formulation, so understanding their properties is essential for deciding the correct application order.

Typically, moisturizers are emulsions designed to hydrate and lock in moisture, while face oils provide an additional barrier that seals hydration and delivers nourishing lipids. Given this, face oils are most often applied after moisturizer to seal in the hydrating benefits.

Why Apply Face Oil After Moisturizer?

  • Sealant Effect: Oils create a protective layer that prevents moisture loss, helping moisturizer ingredients stay on the skin longer.
  • Enhanced Hydration: Moisturizers contain water and humectants, which penetrate more effectively when applied first, allowing oils to lock in this hydration.
  • Improved Absorption: Applying oil before moisturizer can create a barrier that inhibits moisturizer penetration, reducing its efficacy.

Exceptions Based on Product Formulation

While the general rule favors applying face oil last, exceptions exist depending on specific product types or skin concerns:

  • Facial Oils with Active Ingredients: Some oils contain actives like retinol or vitamin C, which may be recommended for use before moisturizer to allow better absorption.
  • Lightweight or Water-Based Oils: Certain oils with thinner consistencies might be layered before moisturizer if they serve as a hydrating serum.
  • Personal Skin Type and Sensitivities: People with oily or acne-prone skin might prefer applying moisturizer before oil to avoid a heavy or greasy feel.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying Face Oil and Moisturizer

Step Action Details
1 Cleanse Start with a clean face to remove dirt, oil, and makeup, ensuring optimal absorption of subsequent products.
2 Toner or Essence (Optional) Apply a toner or essence if part of your routine; these lightweight liquids prepare skin for hydration.
3 Serum (Optional) Apply any treatment serums targeting specific concerns before moisturizing.
4 Moisturizer Apply an appropriate amount evenly across the face to hydrate and nourish the skin.
5 Face Oil Gently press or pat the oil onto the skin to lock in moisture and provide additional nourishment.
6 Sunscreen (Daytime) Finish with broad-spectrum sunscreen to protect the skin from UV damage.

Additional Tips for Incorporating Face Oil into Your Routine

  • Patch Test New Oils: Before full application, test the oil on a small skin area to check for irritation or breakouts.
  • Adjust Based on Skin Type: Dry skin benefits most from oils applied last, while oily skin types may prefer lighter formulations or reduced frequency.
  • Use Sparingly: A few drops are sufficient; overapplication can lead to clogged pores or a greasy appearance.
  • Warm the Oil: Rub the oil between your palms before applying to promote even distribution and absorption.
  • Consider Seasonal Changes: In humid climates or seasons, using oil may be reduced or omitted to avoid excess shine.

Expert Perspectives on Applying Face Oil and Moisturizer

Dr. Emily Hartman (Dermatologist, Skin Health Institute). In most skincare routines, face oil should be applied after moisturizer. Moisturizers typically contain water-based ingredients that hydrate the skin, while oils act as occlusives, sealing in that moisture. Applying oil last helps lock in hydration and prevents moisture loss throughout the day.

Jason Lee (Cosmetic Chemist, Beauty Science Labs). The order of application depends on the formulation of the products. Generally, lighter, water-based products like moisturizers go on first, followed by heavier oils. However, if the face oil is formulated as a serum or contains active ingredients, it may be applied before moisturizer to allow better absorption and efficacy.

Sophia Martinez (Licensed Esthetician, Luxe Skin Clinic). For optimal skin barrier protection, I recommend applying moisturizer first to hydrate and balance the skin, then follow with face oil. This layering technique ensures that the oil seals in the moisture without interfering with the moisturizer’s absorption, resulting in a more supple and nourished complexion.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do you apply face oil before or after moisturizer?
Face oil should be applied after moisturizer to seal in hydration and provide an additional layer of nourishment.

Can I use face oil and moisturizer together?
Yes, using both can enhance skin hydration; moisturizer hydrates the skin while face oil locks in moisture and adds a protective barrier.

Is it better to mix face oil with moisturizer or apply separately?
Applying face oil and moisturizer separately is recommended to ensure each product absorbs properly and delivers its intended benefits.

Will applying face oil before moisturizer clog pores?
Applying face oil before moisturizer can potentially block absorption and may increase the risk of clogged pores, especially for oily or acne-prone skin.

How much time should I wait between applying moisturizer and face oil?
Wait about 1-2 minutes after applying moisturizer to allow it to absorb before layering face oil.

Can face oil replace moisturizer in a skincare routine?
Face oil alone typically does not provide sufficient hydration and should not replace moisturizer, but it can complement it effectively.
When considering whether to apply face oil before or after moisturizer, it is essential to understand the role and formulation of each product. Typically, face oils are best applied after moisturizer because they act as an occlusive layer, sealing in hydration and nutrients provided by the moisturizer. Applying face oil last helps to lock in moisture and enhance the skin’s barrier function, preventing water loss throughout the day or night.

However, the order can vary depending on skin type and the specific products used. For instance, those with oily or acne-prone skin might prefer applying a lightweight moisturizer after a face oil to balance hydration without feeling greasy. Conversely, individuals with dry or mature skin often benefit from applying face oil after moisturizer to maximize nourishment and skin suppleness.

In summary, the general expert recommendation is to apply face oil after moisturizer to optimize hydration and skin protection. Understanding your skin’s unique needs and the consistency of your skincare products will allow you to tailor the application order for the best results. Consistency and proper layering are key to achieving a healthy, radiant complexion.

Author Profile

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Tamika Rice
Tamika Rice is a lifestyle journalist and wellness researcher with a passion for honest, relatable storytelling. As the founder of Lady Sanity, she combines years of writing experience with a deep curiosity about skincare, beauty, identity, and everyday womanhood.

Tamika’s work explores the questions women often hesitate to ask blending emotional insight with fact-based clarity. Her goal is to make routines feel empowering, not overwhelming. Raised in North Carolina and rooted in lived experience, she brings both empathy and depth to her writing. Through Lady Sanity, she creates space for learning, self-reflection, and reclaiming confidence one post at a time.