Face Oil Before or After Moisturizer: The Definitive Guide

# Face Oil Before or After Moisturizer: The Definitive Guide It’s one of the most common questions in skincare. You’ve invested in a beautiful moisturizer and a nourishing face oil, but in what order do you use them to get the results you’re looking for? The internet is full of conflicting advice, so let’s clear it up with a simple, straight answer. ## The Short Answer: Oil Comes Last For almost every skin type and every routine, your face oil should be applied **after** your moisturizer. Think of it as sealing the deal. Your moisturizer provides the skin with water-based hydration, and the oil locks it all in. ## Why Order Matters: The Science Made Simple It comes down to a basic principle: oil and water don’t mix. More specifically, water cannot penetrate oil. * **Moisturizers** are typically water-based lotions or creams. They contain ingredients called humectants (like glycerin or hyaluronic acid) that draw water into the skin, and emollients that soften it. Their job is to hydrate. * **Face Oils** are occlusive or semi-occlusive. Their job is to form a protective barrier on the skin’s surface. This barrier does two wonderful things: it prevents the water you just applied from evaporating (a process called transepidermal water loss), and it protects your skin from external irritants. If you apply oil first, you create an oil barrier that your water-based moisturizer can’t get through. You’ll get some of the softening benefits, but none of the critical hydration. By applying the moisturizer first, you give your skin the drink of water it needs, and the oil acts as a beautiful, glowing seal to hold that moisture in. ## A Simple Analogy: The Raincoat Think of your skincare like getting dressed for a rainy day. Your moisturizer is your sweater; it provides warmth and comfort. Your face oil is the raincoat you wear over it. The raincoat protects you from the elements and keeps you dry and warm. You wouldn’t wear your raincoat under your sweater. The same logic applies to your skincare. ## Your Step-by-Step Layering Guide Here is how to layer your products for the best results: 1. **Cleanse:** Start with a clean face. 2. **Tone/Essence (Optional):** Apply any light, watery layers first. 3. **Serum:** Apply any water-based serums. 4. **Moisturizer:** Apply your favorite cream or lotion to hydrate the skin. 5. **Face Oil:** Wait a minute for your moisturizer to absorb, then take 2-3 drops of face oil, warm it between your palms, and gently press it into your skin. This pressing motion is better than rubbing, as it avoids pulling at the skin and helps the oil form an even layer. ## The One Exception: Mixing Them If you’re short on time or want to give your moisturizer a boost, you can mix a drop or two of oil directly into it before applying. This is a great trick for colder months or when your skin feels particularly dry. This combines the steps, giving you a richer, more nourishing cream. ## Which Oils Should You Use? For layering, you want an oil that complements your moisturizer without feeling heavy. * For a weightless, silky finish that’s perfect for daytime use or for those new to oils, our [Pure Squalane Oil](/products/pure-squalane-oil) is the ideal choice. It’s light, non-greasy, and absorbs beautifully. * For balanced hydration that works for most skin types, our [Organic Jojoba Oil](/products/organic-jojoba-oil) is a perfect match. It mimics the skin’s natural sebum, so it moisturizes without clogging pores. By following this simple rule—oil after moisturizer—you’ll get the most out of your products and achieve a healthy, hydrated glow.