Face Oil Before or After Moisturiser? The Right Order Explained
The most asked question about face oils, answered simply, plus three easy ways to fit oil into your routine.
By Hunzapure Team2 min read
Short answer: face oil usually goes after your moisturiser, as the last step of your routine (before sunscreen in the morning). Here's why, when you might break the rule, and how to fit oil into a routine you already have.
The general rule: thinnest to thickest
Skin care is easiest to layer from the thinnest, most watery texture to the richest. A typical order looks like this:
Water-based products need to reach the skin, and oils are good at forming a soft layer on top that slows down water loss. Applied last, an oil helps hold in everything underneath it, a bit like closing the lid on a pot.
When to put oil before moisturiser
If you're using a very light oil, like apricot kernel oil, and a thick, rich cream, some people prefer oil first. There's no harm in experimenting: if your moisturiser pills (rolls into little balls) or slides around, try switching the order or waiting a minute between steps.
Three easy ways to use face oil
1. Press it on as the last step
Warm two or three drops between your fingertips and press gently over your face after moisturiser. Pressing (rather than rubbing) spreads it evenly without tugging, and doesn't disturb the layers underneath.
2. Mix a drop into your moisturiser
The easiest option if you're new to oils. Add one drop to your usual amount of moisturiser in your palm, mix, and apply as normal. It makes your cream feel richer without adding a step, which is useful in winter.
3. Use it alone on damp skin
On simple days, mist or splash your face with water after cleansing, then press in a few drops of oil. Damp skin helps the oil spread and absorb. For many people with normal skin, this is all they need at night.
A simple morning routine with oil
A simple night routine with oil
What about sunscreen?
In the morning, sunscreen always goes last. Use a lighter hand with oil (one or two drops) and give it a few minutes to settle so your sunscreen can form an even layer. If your sunscreen feels slippery or doesn't set, save the oil for night.
What about active ingredients?
If you use treatments prescribed by a doctor or strong active ingredients, follow the instructions you were given for those products, and ask your doctor or pharmacist where oil fits in. In most cases, oil still comes after them.
Frequently asked questions
This article is for general information and isn't medical advice. If you have a skin condition, allergy or concern, please speak to a doctor or pharmacist.
