Choosing between a face oil and a moisturiser can be confusing. While both contribute to skin hydration, they function differently. Face oils help lock in moisture, whereas moisturizers contain humectants and emollients that hydrate and repair the skin barrier. But does your skin need one, or both? Let’s break down the science behind these skincare staples.

What’s the Difference Between Face Oils and Moisturisers?

1. Moisturisers: Hydration Powerhouses

Moisturizers are designed to attract and retain water in the skin. According to the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, moisturizers typically contain three main components:

• Humectants (e.g., hyaluronic acid, glycerin) – Attract water from the air and deeper skin layers to hydrate the skin.
• Emollients (e.g., shea butter, squalane) – Smooth the skin and fill in tiny cracks to prevent moisture loss.
• Occlusives (e.g., petrolatum, beeswax) – Form a protective barrier to seal in hydration.

Moisturizers are ideal for all skin types, especially those with dry or dehydrated skin. They actively restore hydration levels and maintain the skin’s barrier function, preventing dryness, irritation, and premature aging.

2. Face Oils: The Sealers of Hydration

Face oils work differently. Rather than delivering hydration, they seal in existing moisture by creating an occlusive barrier. A study published in Dermatologic Therapy found that oils rich in essential fatty acids can improve the skin barrier and reduce water loss.

• Lightweight oils (e.g., jojoba, squalane) – Absorb quickly and mimic the skin’s natural sebum, making them great for oily and combination skin.
• Rich oils (e.g., avocado, rosehip, argan) – Provide deep nourishment, ideal for dry or mature skin.
• Anti-inflammatory oils (e.g., chamomile, tamanu) – Help soothe sensitive or acne-prone skin.

Face oils work best when applied after a moisturiser to lock in hydration and provide an extra boost of nourishment.

Which One Does Your Skin Really Need?

1. If You Have Dry or Dehydrated Skin

✅ Use Both: Start with a moisturizer to hydrate the skin, then apply a face oil to seal in moisture and prevent water loss. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid (for hydration) and jojoba oil (for nourishment).

2. If You Have Oily or Acne-Prone Skin

✅ Moisturizer First, Lightweight Oil (If Needed): Since oily skin already produces sebum, opt for an oil-free or gel-based moisturizer. If you want to use an oil, choose lightweight, non-comedogenic options like squalane or tea tree oil, which can actually help regulate sebum production.

3. If You Have Sensitive or Inflamed Skin

✅ Moisturizer First, Then a Calming Oil: A fragrance-free moisturizer with ceramides and niacinamide helps repair the skin barrier. Follow up with soothing oils like chamomile or tamanu oil to reduce redness and irritation.

4. If You Have Mature or Aging Skin

✅ Both for Maximum Hydration: As the skin ages, it produces less oil, leading to dryness and fine lines. Using a rich moisturizer with peptides and antioxidants, followed by rosehip or argan oil, helps lock in moisture and improve skin elasticity.

Can You Use Both Together?

Yes! Moisturizer and face oil work best when used together, especially if your skin needs extra nourishment. For optimal results:

1️⃣ Apply your moisturiser first while the skin is still damp to draw in hydration.
2️⃣ Follow up with a few drops of face oil to seal everything in and prevent water loss.

This layering technique ensures your skin stays plump, hydrated, and glowing throughout the day.

Conclusion

When it comes to face oils vs. moisturisers, it’s not about choosing one over the other—it’s about using them strategically. If your skin feels tight and dry, a moisturizer is a must. If you need extra nourishment and barrier protection, adding a face oil can be beneficial. Understanding how each works will help you build a custom skincare routine that keeps your skin healthy, hydrated, and radiant.