You might think that face oil and moisturizer are two very similar products—and in some ways, you would be right. Both face oil and moisturizer are designed to hydrate and protect your skin. However, there are also some key differences between these two skin care staples. Keep reading to learn more about the difference between face oil and moisturizer.

Facial oil is a great way to moisturize and protect your skin. It can also help to reduce wrinkles and fine lines. However, it is important to note that facial oil is not the same as moisturizer. Moisturizer is designed to hydrate and protect your skin, it often has a hydrating liquid as an ingredient, it is bringing in moisture. It does not have the same properties as a facial oil. Facial oils provide a vast array of benefits (all specific to the combination of oils) but are known for locking in the moisture already in your skin.  As a result, it is important to use facial oil in addition to moisturizer, not as a replacement for it. Facial oil can help to lock in moisture and keep your skin healthy and hydrated. It is an important part of any facial care routine.

The Basics 

So, what's the difference between face oil and moisturizer? Essentially, it comes down to this: Face oil is concentrated while moisturizer is diluted. That means that face oil contains a higher concentration of active ingredients—like vitamins, minerals, and essential oils—that are designed to target specific skincare concerns. Moisturizers, on the other hand, are meant to hydrate and protect the skin with a mix of humectants (like glycerin) and occlusives (like Shea butter). 

Face oil is, quite simply, is an oil that you apply to your face. Face oils can be made from a variety of different ingredients, including jojoba oil, rosehip oil, almond oil, and more. Face oils can be used alone or as part of a skin care routine; when used alone, face oils typically take the place of both a moisturizer and a serum. Face oils can also be applied before or after moisturizer, depending on your skin type. 

Moisturizer, on the other hand, is a skin care product that contains water (in addition to other ingredients). Moisturizers come in a variety of different textures, including creams, gels, lotions, and serums. Like face oils, moisturizers can be used alone or as part of a skin care routine; when used alone, they typically take the place of both a serum and a face oil. 

So, what’s the difference between these two products? Let’s take a closer look. 

Texture

One of the most obvious differences between a face oil and a moisturizer is texture. As we mentioned above, face oils can come in a variety of different textures, including jojoba oil, rosehip oil, almond oil, and more. On the other hand, moisturizers typically come in creams, gels, lotions, and serums. The type of texture you prefer is purely personal; however, some people prefer the feel of an oil on their skin, while others prefer the creamy consistency of a lotion.   Serums have a light, silky texture that is easily absorbed by the skin. Gels have a light, refreshing texture that is ideal for people with oily skin. Creams have a rich, nourishing texture that is perfect for dry or sensitive skin. Lotions have a lighter texture than creams but are still quite hydrating. Of course, you can always mix and match products to find the perfect combination for your own unique needs. For example, you could use oil as a serum under your cream moisturizer.

Ingredients

Another major difference between face oils and moisturizers has to do with ingredients. As we mentioned above, face oils are made from 100% pure plant extracts—no fillers or added ingredients. This means that they are typically more concentrated than other types of products and may contain potent ingredients that can irritate sensitive skin. If you have sensitive skin, it’s important to test out oil on a small patch of skin before using it all over your face. On the other hand, moisturizers may contain added ingredients like fragrances, preservatives, and colorants. While these added ingredients may not be harmful, they may not be necessary for your specific needs, and not all ingredients are created equal. If you are looking for a product with fewer added ingredients, you may want to choose an oil over a moisturizer.

How to Use Face Oil vs Moisturizer

Now that you know the difference between these two products, you might be wondering how to use them in your skincare routine. The good news is that you can use both face oil and moisturizer—you just have to use them in the right order. 

To get the most out of your products, start by cleansing your face with a gentle cleanser. Then, apply any serums or treatments that you might be using. Once those have had a chance to sink in, it's time for a face oil. Apply 1-2 drops of oil to your fingertips and massage it into your skin until it's fully absorbed. Finally, apply a generous amount of moisturizer to lock in all of that hydration. 

Conclusion

So, what’s the verdict? Should you use an oil or a moisturizer? The answer is…it depends! Face oil and moisturizer serve two different purposes in your skincare routine. Face oil is concentrated while moisturizer is diluted, which means that face oil contains a higher concentration of active ingredients— like vitamins, minerals, and essential oils—that are designed to target specific skincare concerns. Moisturizers are meant to hydrate and protect the skin with a mix of humectants (like glycerin) and occlusives (like Shea butter). To get the most out of your products, start by cleansing your face with a gentle cleanser. Then, apply any serums or treatments that you might be using before finishing with face oil and moisturizer.

Ultimately, the best way to figure out which product is right for you is to experiment until you find what works best for your own unique needs. Good luck!