Face Oil Vs. Serums

There are skincare products of all types, consistencies, and purposes out there to help you create the appearance of a healthy, radiant glow we all strive for. Two potent and highly effective types of products are serums and specially formulated facial oils. They have similarities that can confuse people, so we’re going to run through the differences and best uses so you can make the right decisions about choosing serums vs. oils.

What is Serum?

Serums are concentrated liquids that have a thin, typically water-based solution and contain potent but lightweight ingredients. These thinner formulas allow serums to quickly penetrate onto the surface of the skin, delivering their active ingredients efficiently, especially when applied to clean skin and clear pores.

One of the most popular serums at Epicuren Discovery is our Moisture Surge Hyaluronic Acid Gel, ideal for when your specific skin concerns are focused on anti-aging and increasing the look of volume by making your skin appear hydrated.

What is Face Oil?

Face oils also have thin consistencies but have a key difference compared to serums in that they are oil-based. These non-comedogenic blends of natural oils and essential oils can richly moisturize the skin without the risk of clogging pores with heavy, greasy ingredients. When looking into face oils, it’s important to know your skin type before choosing a specific product, as anyone can derive benefits, but not everyone should use a specific product.

How to Use Face Oil and Serums

Both face oils and serums can be a helpful part of your everyday skincare routine, and you don’t have to choose only one. When using both a serum and an oil together, it’s recommended to apply the oil after the serum, as it can interfere with the absorption of that thinner formula.

Generally speaking, apply your lightest products first after cleansing and using toner, starting with serums, then applying a face oil, moisturizer (if needed), and sunscreen, waiting for each product to fully absorb before moving on to the next.

How To Choose the Best Face Oil and Serum

Different skin types benefit from different types of products and specific formulas. You also should take into account your skincare goals, whether anti-aging, brightening your skin, and other goals you may have when selecting the high-quality products for your daily routine.

Sensitive or Acne-Prone

Anyone with sensitive skin can tell you that potent ingredients are not always the best thing when it comes to their main skin concern. Interestingly, both sensitive and blemish-prone, oily skin can benefit from face oils with soothing compounds and deeply moisturizing essential oils. This is because face oils are designed to replace your skin’s natural oil, helping it know that it doesn't need to produce large amounts of the skin's natural sebum throughout the day.

Dry Skin

Dry skin is perhaps the most obvious candidate for a facial oil, which helps double-layer your skin with moisturizing compounds with both a potent essential oil blend and your daily moisturizer. Dry skin can also benefit from serums with potent antioxidants like Vitamin C. These serums absorb quickly and give your skin a foundation of nourishing compounds that your moisturizer or facial oil can build off of for day-long moisture.

Uneven Skin

Any number of factors, including sun damage, age, or buildup of dull, dead skin cells in a certain area, can contribute to an uneven complexion. This is where a potent serum really helps the skin for the best results. With a brightening facial oil like our Defy Age Corrective Facial Oil, you can enjoy anti-aging benefits while also helping your skin with the appearance of imperfections.

Professional-Grade Skincare by Epicuren Discovery

If you’re looking to level up your skin care regimen, Epicuren Discovery’s complete collection of science-backed, high-quality formulas are a perfect place to start. Discover more products like facial oils and serums by browsing our website, or get tailored recommendations based on your skin type and goals by taking our Skin Quiz today.