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. Serums and facial oils 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 face oil vs serum.
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. Hyaluronic acid is ideal when your specific skin concerns are focused on anti-aging and increasing the look of volume by helping your skin look and feel hydrated.
WHAT IS FACE OIL?
Facial 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 and target concerns like dehydration and dryness. 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. With face oils a little goes a long way. A few drops can be added directly to your face or combined with a moisturizer.
HOW TO USE FACE OIL AND SERUMS
Both serums and oils 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 it’s anti-aging, brightening your skin, helping your skin barrier, evening your skin tone, combating acne-prone skin, or other goals you may have when selecting 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 moisturizing essential oils. This is because face oils are designed to support your skin’s natural oil production. Sensitive and acne-prone skin can also benefit from serums with powerful antioxidants like Vitamin C.
DRY SKIN
Dry skin is perhaps the most obvious candidate for a facial oil, which helps double-layer your skin with moisturizing ingredients and potent oil blends. Bulgarian Rose Otto is the perfect choice for dry dehydrated skin concerns and is full of hydrating oils that help with visible redness - like Meadowfoam Seed Oil. This oil absorbs onto the surface of the skin quickly and helps lock in moisture.
UNEVEN SKIN
Any factors, including sun damage, age, or buildup of dull, dead skin cells in a particular area, can contribute to an uneven complexion. This is where a potent serum helps the skin for the best results. With a brightening facial oil like our Defy Age Corrective Facial Oil, you can enjoy many benefits while also helping your skin with the appearance of imperfections, perfect for individuals with aging concerns.
PROFESSIONAL-GRADE SKINCARE BY EPICUREN DISCOVERY
If you want to level up your skin care regimen, Epicuren Discovery’s complete collection of science-backed, high-quality formulas is 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.