Serum vs. facial oil: what’s the difference?

09/13/2020 Singapore

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In addition to the usual facial moisturizer you use in your skincare routine, some of us may opt for facial oils or serums. But what exactly do these skin products entail?

Serums are considered the lightest moisturizing products and are used to treat specific skin conditions. Serums are also commonly used in conjunction with a moisturizer.

Because the molecular structure of a serum is small, it can penetrate deep into the epidermis of our skin to deliver the results we desire: clarify, firm and repair. Serums are often packed with active ingredients like vitamin C, glycolic, or even alpha hydroxy acids.

Facial oils tend to have a larger molecular structure, which is why the oil only penetrates the surface of our skin. Facial oils generally contain plant-based oils and essential oils that help stimulate hydration, keeping our skin healthy and glowing. The oils also help strengthen our skin’s moisture barrier and protect it from environmental damage that can lead to aging and acne.

Depending on the needs of your skin, small doses of oils provide radiance. So as a general rule of thumb, you may want to apply oils after your cream-based moisturizer as the oils can penetrate the moisturizer. However, if you use more than two serums under your moisturizer, you should skip the facial oils.