Best Facial Oil vs. Serum

What's the Difference Between a Facial Oil and Serum

FACIAL OILS AND SERUMS: IS THERE A DIFFERENCE?

As your body’s first line of defense, your skin’s health is critical. Facial oils and serums are both wonderful additions to your skincare routine and can help protect your skin and treat issues of concern. But what exactly are they, what makes them different and how should you use them?

WHAT ARE FACIAL OILS?

Because they are usually extracted from fruit, seeds and nuts, facial oils are full of essential nutrients, fatty acids and antioxidants. It may surprise you, but because they mimic your skin’s natural oil production, facial oils actually can help balance the oil in your skin. Facial oils also moisturize and hydrate, so they are a great way to lock in moisture and keep your skin healthy.

WHAT ARE SERUMS?

Serums are water-based and developed from high concentrations of active ingredients. Because they are comprised of smaller molecules, they penetrate deeper into the skin and this allows for a more effective delivery of ingredients and targeted results. So, if you have a specific skin concern, you can probably find a serum for it.

WHAT MAKES THEM DIFFERENT?

Facial oils are oil-based made with whole plant parts, composed of bigger molecules, and only reach the outer layer of the skin if its not applied on wet skin. This makes them ideal for protecting your skin’s barrier and (when used with water) stimulating cellular turnover. They also help lock in moisture, which is why they should be the 2nd to last step in your skincare routine.

Serums are water-based and contain a part of the plant that has been extracted for its specific use to target skincare concerns. Serums don’t need any added water to help penetrate deeper into the skin because they are comprised of water. The water content also means a preservative. A preservative usually means unnatural. For this reason, (the unnatural part) Sealuxe won’t be adding a serum to their facial line-up.

HOW SHOULD YOU USE THEM?

First of all, be sure to cleanse your face thoroughly before applying facial oils or serums. This will ensure that all of their beneficial ingredients are properly absorbed. Skincare products should be applied from lightest to heaviest, so if you will be using both a facial oil and a serum, you should apply the serum before your facial oil, since serums have smaller molecules.

THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND

When it comes to using facial oils and serums, the key is to find the right formulation for your skin type. Do research and learn what ingredients they are composed of and what will work with your skin’s needs. It is also important to remember that facial oils and serums aren’t meant to replace your moisturizer. Once you have figured out what your skin’s particular needs are and establish a good skincare routine, you are sure to see the difference!