Does Facial Oil Go On Before or After Moisturizer?

AvatarByKristie Pacheco Skincare

When it comes to skincare routines, the order in which you apply products can make a significant difference in their effectiveness. One common question that often arises is: does facial oil go on before or after moisturizer? This seemingly simple step can impact how well your skin absorbs nutrients, retains moisture, and ultimately how radiant and healthy it looks. Understanding the right sequence can help you maximize the benefits of both your facial oil and moisturizer.

Facial oils have gained immense popularity for their ability to nourish and protect the skin barrier, offering a boost of hydration and essential nutrients. Meanwhile, moisturizers work to lock in moisture and create a smooth, hydrated surface. But when these two powerful products are combined, knowing which one to apply first can be confusing. The answer depends on factors like your skin type, the texture of the products, and your specific skincare goals.

In this article, we’ll explore the role of facial oils and moisturizers in your skincare regimen and clarify the best application order. By understanding how these products interact, you can tailor your routine to enhance your skin’s health and glow. Whether you’re a skincare novice or a seasoned enthusiast, getting this step right can elevate your daily ritual to the next level.

Applying Facial Oil: Before or After Moisturizer?

Determining whether facial oil should be applied before or after moisturizer depends on the specific purpose of the oil and your skin type. Generally, facial oils serve as occlusives, which means they help seal in moisture. Because of this, the conventional skincare wisdom is to apply facial oil after moisturizer to lock in hydration and enhance the skin barrier.

Applying oil after moisturizer allows the oil to create a protective layer on the skin’s surface, preventing moisture loss and providing a nourishing barrier. Moisturizers, which often contain humectants and emollients, work to hydrate and soften the skin, while oils provide lasting protection.

However, there are exceptions depending on the formulation and your skincare goals:

  • If using facial oil as a treatment: Some lightweight, targeted oils (such as those rich in antioxidants or actives) may be applied before moisturizer to allow better absorption into the skin.
  • If layering multiple oils: When using more than one facial oil or combining oils with serums, the general rule is to apply the thinnest consistency first and the thickest last.
  • For oily or acne-prone skin: Lighter oils are usually applied after moisturizer to avoid clogging pores but still maintain hydration.

How to Layer Facial Oil and Moisturizer Correctly

Proper layering is key to maximizing the benefits of both facial oil and moisturizer while avoiding issues like greasiness or clogged pores. Follow these steps to ensure optimal application:

  • Start with a clean, toned face.
  • Apply any water-based serums or treatments first.
  • Follow with your moisturizer to hydrate and nourish the skin.
  • Finish with the facial oil, gently pressing it onto the skin to seal in moisture.
  • If using sunscreen, apply it last in the morning routine.

Below is a table summarizing the general order of product application including facial oil and moisturizer:

Step Product Type Purpose Typical Consistency Application Order
1 Cleansers & Toners Cleanse, prep skin Liquid or gel First
2 Serums & Treatments Targeted active ingredients Light liquid or gel After cleansing
3 Moisturizers Hydration and nourishment Cream, lotion, or gel After serums
4 Facial Oils Seal moisture, barrier protection Oil Last before sunscreen/makeup
5 Sunscreen UV protection Various Final step (morning)

Considerations for Different Skin Types

Choosing when to apply facial oil relative to moisturizer can also depend heavily on skin type:

  • Dry Skin: Applying facial oil after moisturizer can provide an additional layer of hydration and prevent moisture loss. Oils rich in fatty acids, like rosehip or argan oil, are excellent choices.
  • Oily or Acne-Prone Skin: Lighter oils such as jojoba or squalane are recommended and should be applied sparingly after moisturizer. Some may prefer to skip oils or use them as treatments before moisturizer to avoid a greasy feel.
  • Combination Skin: Target dry areas with facial oils after moisturizing while keeping oily zones lighter to balance hydration without excess shine.
  • Sensitive Skin: Use hypoallergenic, fragrance-free oils and apply them after moisturizer to soothe and protect the skin barrier.

Additional Tips for Using Facial Oils Effectively

  • Use only a few drops of facial oil to avoid overwhelming the skin or causing breakouts.
  • Warm the oil in your palms before applying to enhance absorption.
  • Avoid rubbing; instead, gently press the oil into the skin.
  • Adjust application frequency based on seasonal changes and skin needs.
  • If layering multiple oils or products, test patch first to check for any adverse reactions.

By understanding the role of facial oils and their interaction with moisturizers, you can optimize your skincare routine to achieve healthy, radiant skin.

Proper Application Order: Facial Oil and Moisturizer

When incorporating facial oil into your skincare routine, understanding the correct application order is essential for maximizing efficacy and skin benefits. Facial oils and moisturizers serve complementary but distinct roles, and their layering sequence affects absorption and hydration levels.

Generally, the rule of thumb is to apply products from thinnest to thickest consistency. Facial oils, despite being oils, are often heavier than many moisturizers. Consequently, facial oils are typically applied after moisturizer to lock in hydration and create a protective barrier.

Step Product Purpose Reason for Order
1 Moisturizer Hydrates and nourishes skin Lightweight texture allows absorption and provides moisture base
2 Facial Oil Seals in moisture and adds emollience Thicker consistency forms a protective barrier to prevent moisture loss

When to Apply Facial Oil Before Moisturizer

Although the conventional approach is to apply facial oil after moisturizer, there are exceptions based on product formulation and skin type.

  • Facial Oil as a Treatment or Serum: Some lightweight facial oils are designed to penetrate deeply and act like serums. These can be applied before moisturizer to deliver active ingredients effectively.
  • Mixing Oils With Moisturizer: Occasionally, facial oils can be blended directly into moisturizer for enhanced hydration, applied simultaneously rather than in sequence.
  • Oily or Acne-Prone Skin: For skin types susceptible to breakouts, applying a facial oil before moisturizer can sometimes help prevent clogged pores by allowing the oil to absorb more effectively under the lighter moisturizer.

However, it is crucial to consider product instructions and patch test to ensure compatibility with your skin.

Factors Influencing Application Order

Several elements determine whether facial oil should go on before or after moisturizer:

  • Product Texture and Weight: Thicker products generally go last to seal the skin; lightweight oils may be used as serums.
  • Skin Type: Dry skin benefits from oils applied last to lock in moisture, while oily skin may prefer oils applied first or mixed with moisturizer.
  • Climate and Season: In dry or cold climates, layering facial oil last helps prevent transepidermal water loss, whereas in humid environments, a lighter application may be preferable.
  • Specific Ingredients: Some oils contain active ingredients that function better when applied under moisturizers, while others are most effective as a final step.

Application Tips for Optimal Results

  • Apply to Damp Skin: Moisturizer and oil absorb better when applied to slightly damp skin, enhancing hydration retention.
  • Use Moderate Amounts: Avoid overusing facial oil to prevent clogged pores or greasy residue; a few drops are generally sufficient.
  • Pat, Don’t Rub: Gently patting products into skin helps maintain the skin barrier and improves absorption.
  • Wait Between Layers: Allow moisturizer to fully absorb before applying facial oil to prevent product dilution and ensure proper layering.
  • Customize Routine: Adjust order and product combinations based on personal skin response and product performance.

Expert Perspectives on Applying Facial Oil: Before or After Moisturizer?

Dr. Elena Martinez (Dermatologist, Skin Health Institute). In most skincare routines, facial oil should be applied after moisturizer. Moisturizers typically contain water-based ingredients that hydrate the skin, while facial oils act as occlusives, sealing in moisture and preventing water loss. Applying oil last helps lock in the benefits of the moisturizer and provides a protective barrier.

James Carter (Cosmetic Chemist, Beauty Science Lab). From a formulation standpoint, the order of application depends on the consistency of the products. Generally, lighter, water-based products like moisturizers go on first, followed by heavier oils. Applying facial oil after moisturizer ensures better absorption and prevents the oil from blocking the skin’s ability to take in hydrating ingredients.

Sophia Nguyen (Licensed Esthetician and Skincare Consultant). I recommend applying facial oil after moisturizer because it seals in hydration and adds a nourishing layer to the skin. However, if you have very oily or acne-prone skin, using oil before moisturizer can sometimes help balance sebum production. Ultimately, the best approach depends on your skin type and the specific products you use.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Does facial oil go on before or after moisturizer?
Facial oil is typically applied after moisturizer to seal in hydration and provide a protective barrier.

Can I apply facial oil and moisturizer together?
Yes, you can layer them; apply moisturizer first to hydrate, then facial oil to lock in moisture and add nourishment.

Will applying facial oil before moisturizer reduce its effectiveness?
Applying facial oil before moisturizer may create a barrier that prevents the moisturizer from absorbing properly, reducing its effectiveness.

Is it necessary to use both moisturizer and facial oil in a skincare routine?
Using both is beneficial for dry or mature skin types, as moisturizer hydrates while facial oil adds extra nourishment and protection.

Can facial oil replace moisturizer?
Facial oil alone may not provide sufficient hydration for all skin types; it is best used in conjunction with a moisturizer for balanced skin care.

How should I layer facial oil with other skincare products?
Apply lighter, water-based products like serums and moisturizers first, followed by heavier oils to lock in moisture and enhance skin barrier function.
When determining whether facial oil should be applied before or after moisturizer, it is important to consider the primary function and formulation of each product. Typically, facial oils are best used after moisturizer because they act as an occlusive layer, sealing in hydration and preventing moisture loss. Applying oil last helps lock in the benefits of the moisturizer and enhances skin barrier protection.

However, the specific order can vary depending on skin type and the consistency of the products used. For example, if the facial oil is lightweight and intended to deliver active ingredients, some may prefer applying it before a heavier moisturizer. Conversely, those with oily or acne-prone skin might benefit from using oil sparingly and ensuring moisturizer is applied first to maintain balanced hydration without clogging pores.

Ultimately, the key takeaway is to tailor the application order to individual skin needs and product textures. Testing the combination and observing how your skin responds can help optimize your skincare routine. Prioritizing moisturizer first followed by facial oil remains the most widely recommended approach for maximizing hydration and skin health.

Author Profile

Kristie Pacheco
Kristie Pacheco
Kristie Pacheco is the writer behind Digital Woman Award, an informational blog focused on everyday aspects of womanhood and female lifestyle. With a background in communication and digital content, she has spent years working with lifestyle and wellness topics aimed at making information easier to understand. Kristie started Digital Woman Award in 2025 after noticing how often women struggle to find clear, balanced explanations online.

Her writing is calm, practical, and grounded in real-life context. Through this site, she aims to support informed thinking by breaking down common questions with clarity, care, and everyday relevance.