Does Face 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 face oil go on before or after moisturizer? This seemingly simple query holds the key to unlocking a radiant, well-nourished complexion and ensuring that each product performs at its best.

Understanding where face oil fits into your regimen can be a game-changer, especially as oils have gained popularity for their ability to hydrate, protect, and enhance the skin’s natural barrier. However, with so many products vying for attention, knowing the right sequence can feel confusing. Whether you’re a skincare novice or a seasoned enthusiast, getting this step right can elevate your routine and help you achieve the glowing skin you desire.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the factors that influence the ideal application order of face oil and moisturizer. By shedding light on how these products interact with your skin, you’ll be better equipped to tailor your routine to your unique needs and maximize the benefits of every drop.

Application Order: Face Oil and Moisturizer

Understanding the correct sequence for applying face oil and moisturizer is essential to maximize their benefits and maintain skin health. Generally, the rule of thumb in skincare layering is to apply products from the thinnest to the thickest consistency. Since most face oils have a heavier texture compared to moisturizers, the standard practice is to apply moisturizer first, followed by face oil.

Applying face oil after moisturizer serves several purposes:

  • Seals in Moisture: Face oil acts as an occlusive layer that locks in the hydration provided by the moisturizer, preventing water loss.
  • Enhances Barrier Function: Oils can strengthen the skin’s natural lipid barrier, aiding in prolonged hydration.
  • Provides Additional Nourishment: Oils often contain antioxidants, vitamins, and essential fatty acids that complement the moisturizer’s ingredients.

However, the exact order might vary depending on the type of products used and skin type.

When to Apply Face Oil Before Moisturizer

In some cases, applying face oil before moisturizer can be beneficial, particularly if the oil is lightweight or designed to deliver active ingredients that need to penetrate deeply before the occlusive barrier is applied. This approach may be suitable for:

  • Serum-like Face Oils: Oils with a thin consistency that absorb quickly.
  • Targeted Treatments: Oils containing actives like retinol or vitamin C that require direct skin contact.
  • Very Dry Skin: When layering is needed for intense hydration, applying oil first can create an initial lipid layer.

If choosing to apply face oil before moisturizer, ensure that the oil is fully absorbed before layering the moisturizer to avoid pilling or uneven application.

Factors Influencing Application Order

Several factors determine whether face oil should go on before or after moisturizer:

  • Skin Type:
  • Dry or mature skin often benefits from applying face oil after moisturizer to lock in hydration.
  • Oily or acne-prone skin may prefer lighter oils applied before moisturizer or in place of moisturizer.
  • Product Formulation:
  • Water-based moisturizers absorb quickly and can be layered under oils.
  • Thick, occlusive creams might block oil absorption if applied first.
  • Climate and Season:
  • In dry, cold climates, oils are usually applied last for extra protection.
  • In humid climates, lighter layering (oil first or skipping oil) might be preferable.

Comparison Table: Face Oil Before vs. After Moisturizer

Application Order Benefits Ideal Skin Type Potential Drawbacks
Face Oil After Moisturizer
  • Seals moisture effectively
  • Enhances skin barrier
  • Provides nourishing lipids
 Dry, mature, normal skin
  • May feel heavy for oily skin
  • Potential for clogged pores if oil is comedogenic
Face Oil Before Moisturizer
  • Allows active ingredients to penetrate
  • Lightweight oils absorb well
  • Can be used as a serum step
 Oily, combination skin; sensitive skin with lightweight oils
  • May reduce moisturizer absorption
  • Risk of pilling if not absorbed fully

Optimal Order for Applying Face Oil and Moisturizer

When incorporating face oil into your skincare routine, the order of application significantly influences its effectiveness and skin benefits. The general expert consensus is:

  • Apply face oil after moisturizer, not before.

This sequence allows moisturizer to hydrate and seal the skin first, while the oil acts as an occlusive layer, locking in moisture and providing additional nourishment.

Here’s a detailed explanation of why face oil should come after moisturizer:

  • Moisturizer’s primary function: Hydrates the skin by delivering water and active ingredients into the skin’s surface.
  • Face oil’s role: Creates a protective barrier on the skin’s surface, preventing moisture loss and enhancing skin softness and glow.
  • Applying oil before moisturizer: May create a barrier that inhibits the moisturizer’s absorption, reducing its hydrating benefits.
  • Applying oil after moisturizer: Seals in the moisturizer’s hydration and boosts skin barrier function.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying Face Oil and Moisturizer

Step Product Application Method Purpose
1 Cleanser Gently cleanse face and neck Remove dirt, oil, and makeup
2 Toner (optional) Apply with cotton pad or palms Balance skin pH and prep skin
3 Serum Pat or press onto skin Deliver targeted active ingredients
4 Moisturizer Apply evenly over face and neck Hydrate and nourish skin
5 Face Oil Warm a few drops between fingers and gently press onto skin Seal moisture and add nourishment
6 Sunscreen (daytime) Apply liberally as final step Protect skin from UV damage

Considerations Based on Skin Type and Product Formulation

The ideal layering order can vary slightly depending on skin type and the specific products used:

  • Oily or acne-prone skin: Use lightweight, non-comedogenic oils (e.g., squalane, jojoba) after moisturizer to avoid clogging pores.
  • Dry or mature skin: Heavier oils (e.g., rosehip, argan) can be especially beneficial when applied after a rich moisturizer for enhanced hydration.
  • Water-based oils or serums: Products labeled as “oil-serums” or water-based oils can sometimes be applied before moisturizer if they have a lighter texture and absorb quickly.
  • Layering multiple oils or treatments: Apply thinnest, most fluid products first, followed by thicker oils and then creams or moisturizers.

Additional Tips for Effective Use of Face Oil and Moisturizer

  • Apply to damp skin: Both moisturizer and face oil absorb better when applied to slightly damp skin, helping to lock in hydration.
  • Use sparingly: A few drops of face oil are sufficient; overuse can lead to a greasy feel or breakouts.
  • Pat, don’t rub: Gently pressing products into the skin aids absorption and reduces irritation.
  • Customize for time of day: Use richer oils and moisturizers at night for repair and hydration; opt for lighter formulations during the day.
  • Patch test new oils: To avoid allergic reactions or irritation, test on a small area before full-face application.

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

Dr. Elena Martinez (Dermatologist, Skin Health Institute). In my clinical experience, face oil should be applied after moisturizer. The moisturizer acts as a hydrating base, and the oil seals in that moisture, creating a protective barrier that prevents water loss and enhances skin hydration throughout the day.

James Liu (Cosmetic Chemist, GlowLab Skincare). From a formulation standpoint, applying face oil after moisturizer is optimal because oils are occlusive agents. They lock in the ingredients of the moisturizer, improving efficacy. Applying oil first can create a barrier that inhibits the absorption of subsequent water-based products.

Sophia Reynolds (Licensed Esthetician, Luxe Skin Studio). I advise clients to use face oil as the last step in their skincare routine. After moisturizing, the oil provides nourishment and a radiant finish, especially for dry or mature skin types. However, for very oily skin, a lighter application or skipping oil may be preferable.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Does face oil go on before or after moisturizer?
Face oil should be applied after moisturizer to seal in hydration and provide an additional layer of nourishment.

Can I mix face oil with my moisturizer?
Yes, mixing a few drops of face oil with your moisturizer can enhance hydration and improve absorption, but it depends on your skin type and product formulations.

Will applying face oil after moisturizer clog pores?
When used correctly and with non-comedogenic oils, applying face oil after moisturizer typically does not clog pores; however, those with oily or acne-prone skin should choose lightweight oils.

Is it necessary to use both moisturizer and face oil in a skincare routine?
Using both can be beneficial as moisturizers hydrate and oils lock in moisture, but some skin types may only require one depending on their specific needs.

How long should I wait between applying moisturizer and face oil?
Wait about one to two minutes after applying moisturizer to allow it to absorb before applying face oil for optimal effectiveness.

Can I use face oil alone instead of moisturizer?
Face oil alone may not provide sufficient hydration for all skin types; it is best used in combination with a moisturizer for balanced skin care.
face oil should generally be applied after moisturizer to lock in hydration and provide an additional layer of nourishment to the skin. Moisturizers, which often contain water-based ingredients, help to hydrate and prepare the skin, while oils act as occlusives that seal in moisture and create a protective barrier. Applying oil before moisturizer can interfere with the absorption of water-based products and reduce their effectiveness.

It is important to consider your skin type and the specific products you are using, as some formulations may have unique instructions. For example, lightweight facial oils or serums designed to penetrate quickly might be applied before moisturizer in certain skincare routines. However, as a general rule, applying face oil last ensures optimal hydration and skin barrier protection.

Ultimately, understanding the role of each product in your skincare regimen and how they interact will help you maximize their benefits. By applying face oil after moisturizer, you support skin health by enhancing moisture retention and improving overall skin texture and appearance. This approach aligns with expert recommendations for effective skincare layering.

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.