Is it better to use oil or moisturizer?

Author: Makenna Thompson  |  Last update: Wednesday, April 2, 2025

There is no "better" skincare product between moisturizer, cream, and face oil as the effectiveness of each product depends on individual skin needs and preferences. Each product serves a different purpose and has its own unique benefits.

Is moisturiser or body oil better?

Oils are generally better for adding hydration and creating a protective barrier, making them suitable for dry or mature skin. Creams are typically more balanced and can offer hydration while being less greasy, making them ideal for combination or oily skin.

Can you skip moisturizer if you use face oil?

Moisturizers and face oils are not interchangeable. You cannot use oil in place of moisturizer because oils are too heavy for the skin. They will make your face oily and greasy, which is something you definitely want to avoid as it will make your skin look worse than ever.

Should I apply oil or moisturizer first?

Hi, you should use a facial oil after your moisturizer. Moisturizers are typically water-based and absorb quickly, providing hydration directly to the skin. Applying facial oil afterward helps to lock in this moisture, creating a protective barrier that prevents water loss.

What are the disadvantages of applying oil on the face?

Pure, cold-pressed olive oil is high in oleic acid, which can be comedogenic for some people. This means that it can potentially clog pores and lead to acne outbreaks by blocking the skin's natural functions. If you have acne-prone skin, it's best to use a diluted form of olive oil or avoid it altogether.

Dry Skin? Don’t Buy A Moisturizer (Here’s The ACTUAL Science)

Is it OK to use oil on your face everyday?

For maximum hydration, mix your face oil into your moisturizer or apply it directly afterward to lock in its water content. While you can use face oil every day, consider reserving it for nighttime; face oil can make sunscreen less effective, and you should be applying sunscreen every morning—including in winter!

What are the disadvantages of applying oil?

“Applying excess oil can clog hair follicles, leading to hair fall and dandruff. Similarly, applying it to dirty hair can cause scalp infections,” shares Dr Smita Naram, co-founder Ayushakti.

Is it better to use oil instead of moisturizer?

The answer is, it depends. If you have dry or dehydrated skin, moisturizer will provide surface hydration and prevent that tight, uncomfortable feeling. If you have oily or acne-prone skin, facial oil can help to balance your skin's natural oil production.

Which oil is best for the face?

However, as a baseline, opt for jojoba oil, rosehip seed oil, and argan oil if you're prone to breakouts. Marula oil, coconut oil, and olive oil, on the other hand, are pretty high on the comedogenicity scale, so they can potentially clog your pores.

How long to wait between moisturizer and oil?

How long should I wait to apply face oil after moisturizer? You should wait between 30 seconds and 15 minutes when applying the different layers. Should I use facial oil every day? For the best results, you should use a facial oil every morning and night.

Which oil can replace moisturizer?

Safflower Oil: Safflower oil is deeply moisturizing and helps to seal in long-lasting hydration. Rosehip Seed Oil: Rosehip seed oil is rich in vitamin C and also has anti-aging properties. It's an excellent choice for brightening the skin, reducing hyperpigmentation, and improving overall skin tone.

Do you put hyaluronic acid or oil first?

With the fact hyaluronic acid isn't oil soluble it is unable to penetrate any oil meaning it can't reach the area of the skin that it needs to treat. To prevent the hyaluronic acid from simply sitting on top of the oil its best to apply hyaluronic acid serum first followed by layering facial oils and moisturisers.

Is face oil really necessary?

Face oil controls oily skin

If you have oily or acne-prone skin, face oil can actually help to control oil production and keep your skin clear. Face oils can help to balance your skin's natural oil production, resulting in a matte complexion.

Is lotion or oil better for aging skin?

Body lotion is best used for combating seasonal dryness or quickly moisturizing parched skin in hot, humid climates. Cool climates also call for specific needs. For mature skin, or dry skin year-round, opt for thicker body butters and oils that can reintroduce moisture to your skin and support the moisture barrier.

What is the best oil for dry skin?

Sweet Almond Oil: Gentle and Nourishing

Its light texture allows it to penetrate deeply into the skin, providing long-lasting moisture. The fatty acids in sweet almond oil help the skin retain moisture, making it an excellent option for those with dry or flaky skin.

How do I hydrate my skin?

How to Keep the Skin Hydrated – 8 Best Practices for Skin Hydration
  1. Drink enough water. ...
  2. Pay attention to your diet. ...
  3. Limit hot showers and baths. ...
  4. Avoid overwashing. ...
  5. Use a gentle cleanser. ...
  6. Seek out hydrating skincare ingredients. ...
  7. Use extra moisturizing products overnight. ...
  8. Protect your skin from the elements.

Which oil is best for face aging?

Here are 10 essential oils that could help people reduce the appearance of wrinkles:
  • Clary sage. ...
  • Pomegranate. ...
  • Lavender. ...
  • Carrot seed. ...
  • Ylang-ylang. ...
  • Rosemary. ...
  • Frankincense. ...
  • Rose. Studies suggest that rose oil may have antioxidant, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties.

What is the best face moisturizer?

Some of the best brands include:
  • CeraVe: Known for their gentle, dermatologist recommended moisturizers.
  • La Roche-Posay: Offers a wide range of affordable skincare products, including non-comedogenic moisturizers.
  • Kiehl's: Known for their effective, high end skincare products.

Do Koreans use face oil?

Oil cleansers are the base of the Korean skin care routine and the first step of the double cleanse.

Can you skip moisturizer if you use oil?

Yes, oily skin still needs moisturizer because it helps regulate oil production. Not moisturizing can cause your skin to produce more oil to hydrate itself. Did you know that oil is one of your skin's most valuable assets? With the right amount, your skin can ward off wrinkles and keep it smooth and moist.

Which comes first, oil or moisturizer?

More recently – thanks to science-backed research – it is now widely accepted that a face oil should go on AFTER moisturizer. That's right: that oily essence that doesn't play well with water can actually penetrate moisturizers. The reasoning is in its makeup.

Should I use moisturizer or body oil?

At the end of the day, a body moisturizer is a foolproof place to start. For those looking for the extra hydration boost, though, a body oil is a luxury add-on that will transform your skin one application at a time.

What are disadvantages of using oil?

7 ways oil and gas drilling is bad for the environment
  • Pollution impacts communities. ...
  • Dangerous emissions fuel climate change. ...
  • Oil and gas development can ruin wildlands. ...
  • Fossil fuel extraction turns visitors away. ...
  • Drilling disrupts wildlife habitat. ...
  • Oil spills can be deadly to animals.

Is it OK to apply oil everyday?

​Generally, oiling 1-3 times a week is recommended, with adjustments made based on your individual needs. By incorporating regular oiling into your hair care routine and following best practices, you can achieve stronger, healthier, and more resilient hair.

What is the disadvantage of oil skin?

The excess oil on the surface of the skin can be a disadvantage as it can trap dirt and impurities which can lead to clogged pores as mentioned above. It can also be an issue for make-up wearers as make-up can look patchy or even wear off faster.

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