Close-up of a woman applying moisturizer to her face, emphasizing skincare routine and hydration.

Face Oil, Serum, or Moisturizer: Which Goes First (and Why?)

Do you ever stare at your skincare products, worrying about the correct order to apply them? If so, you’re not alone.

A consistent skincare routine is key to healthy, glowing skin — but figuring out the correct sequence can be confusing. Unfortunately, using these products in the wrong sequence can cancel out their effects — something you'd definitely want to avoid.

In this guide, we’ll break down the correct order of application for moisturizer, face oil, and serums. We’ll also explain the why behind each step so your skincare routine can deliver immediate and lasting results.

The Golden Rule of Layering Face Oil and Serum: Thinnest to Thickest

When it comes to face oil or moisturizer first, or layering skincare products in general, always follow the golden rule for application: start with the thinnest and end with the thickest. But why?

Your skin acts like a sponge. Thin, water-based products  such as serums designed for easy absorption, while thicker formulas such as moisturizers sit on the surface and can block absorption. Face oils are the heaviest of the trio, sealing in serums and moisturizers while giving your skin a glow.
Close-up shot of Sweet July Skin Irie Power Face Oil with dropper, facial roller, and oil.

Step 1: Start with Serum: Your Targeted Treatment

Serums are your skin’s first responder. These concentrated formulas are packed with actives that target concerns like uneven tone, texture, dehydration, exposure to UV rays and environmental pollutants. To address these issues, start your skincare routine with a topical serum.

Because they’re made with smaller molecules, serums absorb quickly and deliver ingredients deep into the skin. Think of them as the foundation of your routine — prepping your skin for everything that follows. Apply right after cleansing and toning for best results.

Tip: if you’re using both face oil and serum, the serum should always go on first. 

Step 2: Lock in Hydration with Moisturizer

After applying your serum, it’s important to lock in its benefits with a moisturizer. Serums target specific skin concerns, such as fine lines and dullness, by delivering active ingredients deep into the skin. Moisturizers, on the other hand, add hydration and help fortify the skin's barrier, sealing in the serum so it can work effectively.

While serums go on smoothly and may seem very hydrating initially, they will eventually penetrate the outer layer of skin, which can make the skin feel dry again. Moisturizers prevent this water loss by binding to the skin, softening it, and creating a smooth, dewy look.

Tip: Don’t wait too long — apply moisturizer while your skin is still slightly damp from serum to lock in maximum moisture.

Step 3: The Final Step: Face Oil's Sealing Power

Like millions of others, you may have searched the web for questions such as "Face oil or moisturizer first?” or “Face oil before or after moisturizer?" seeking clarity on the correct order of application, only to find numerous pages with conflicting advice.

To clear up the confusion and answer these frequently asked skincare questions, “Do I use face oil or moisturizer first?” and “Do I use face oil before or after moisturizer?” always use face oil last.

The reason why?

Face oil creates a barrier over the skin. This barrier is designed to lock in moisture and the benefits of serums and moisturizers. In addition, its natural glistening properties leave your skin with a more radiant appearance.

 Lastly, given the texture of face oil, adding it before your other skincare products could prevent them from penetrating the skin’s surface, essentially blocking out all of the goodness that serums and moisturizers provide. 

Tip: Whether you apply face oil in the morning or at night, it should always be the last step in your skincare routine.

Ready to Optimize Your Skincare Routine?

Remember, to make the most of your skin care products, apply moisturizers, face oil, and serum in this order:

  1. Cleanse and rinse your face with Pava Exfoliating Cleanser.
  2. Prepare your skin with Pava Toner.
  3. Apply your Soursop Vitamin C or Good Youth Retinol Sleep Serum.
  4. Moisturize using your Castaway Cream Daily Moisturizer.
  5. Seal in the goodness with Irie Power Face Oil.

Layering your skincare doesn’t need to be complicated. Follow the thin-to-thick rule, and let each product do its job. With consistency, your skin will appear more hydrated, and radiant.

Explore the Sweet July lineup of moisturizers, face oils, and serums to find just what you need for each step of your daily skincare routine.

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