Face Oils vs Face Serums: What’s More Effective? Find Out Here

The skincare universe can be daunting, particularly when two products claim to give you radiant, healthy-looking skin but do it in utterly different ways. Two such products are face oils and face serums. Both are staple beauty shelf items, but they aren't interchangeable. Therefore, to determine which one should take up space in your regimen, it’s important to know how each works, what each is best used for, and how to combine them.

In an exclusive interaction with the editorial team of Onlymyhealth, our expert, Dr Sanjeev Gulati, Dermatologist, Department of Dermatology, Sharda Hospital - Noida, helped us understand the benefits, when to use what, and which one should you prefer. Read ahead to find out.

What are Face Oils?

Face oils are typically combinations of natural or synthetic oils with high contents of fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins. Their function is primarily to seal in moisture and fortify the barrier of the skin. “Imagine them as an armour shield that locks in moisture and protects your skin from outside aggressors such as pollution and harsh weather,” said Dr Gulati. According to him, face oils are:

• Perfect for dry, flaky, or mature skin
• Ideal for nighttime application when the skin regenerates
• Give intense nutrition and an immediate glow

But face oils don't actually penetrate very far. They stay on the surface, so they are best applied in a layer over a moisturiser or serum.

Also Read: Lip Balm Vs Lip Oil: Which Works Better for Dry Lips?

What Are Face Serums?

Where face oils are protectors, face serums are correctors. Thin and intense, serums contain active ingredients like hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, niacinamide, or retinol. Due to their tiny molecular composition, they penetrate rapidly and travel deeper into the skin to combat specific issues. These are:

• Ideal for dullness, acne, pigmentation, or fine lines
• Goes well with all skin types, including oily and sensitive
• Work equally well in both morning and night regimens under moisturiser

Serums are your skin's personal problem-solvers, they address concerns at the root rather than sitting on the surface.

Oils vs Serums: What’s the Difference

Here's the easiest way Dr Gulati puts it:

Serum = Treatment → addresses skin concerns at a deeper level

Oil = Seal and Protect → seals in moisture and nourishes

“For instance, if your complexion is dehydrated and lacking luster, a hyaluronic acid serum will replace lost hydration, and a face oil applied on the surface will seal in that hydration so that it won't evaporate,” he added.

Do You Need Face Oil or Serum?

“Not necessarily. The two aren't rivals, they're actually complements,” he Gulati recommended. If treating skin concerns is your primary goal, grab a serum. If you're looking to nourish and protect, use an oil. And, if you want to get the best of both, you can use them together:

1. Use serum first for spot results.
2. Seal with oil afterward to lock it in.

Bottomline

Face oils and serums do very different jobs, and the best choice depends on your skin needs. A serum works deep within to solve problems, while an oil keeps everything balanced and protected on the surface. Together, they can transform your routine into a powerhouse of hydration, repair, and glow.

FAQs

1. Can I substitute face oil for a moisturiser?

No, oils don't substitute for moisturisers. They seal in moisture but don't deliver the water-binding benefits that moisturisers provide.

2. Are serums okay for sensitive skin?

Yes, but that varies based on the active ingredient. For instance, hyaluronic acid is safe in general, whereas retinol can require some caution for sensitive skin.

3. How best to layer serum and oil?

Always put serum on first (as it goes deeper), followed by oil to lock in the effects.