Did you know that our skin is made up of roughly 70% water? That fact alone reveals something important: water is non-negotiable when it comes to skin health. But water isn’t the whole story. To keep skin healthy, hydrated, and glowing, it’s essential to understand the unique and complementary roles of water-based and oil-based products in your skincare routine.
Too often, people reach for one or the other, not realizing that it's the balance of both that leads to long-term skin harmony. Whether you're struggling with dry patches, dehydration, dullness, or an oily T-zone, this guide will help you understand why combining water and oil is the key to radiant, resilient skin.
Why Your Skin Needs Water
Water-based products and humectants are essential for nourishing the skin and maintaining optimal hydration levels. These formulas penetrate the skin’s upper layers, drawing water in and keeping skin cells plump, bright, and functioning optimally.
When your skin lacks water, it enters a dehydrated state, even if it produces an excessive amount of oil. You might notice flaking, tightness, or fine lines that appear more pronounced. This is why hydrating serums and lightweight moisturizers should be your first line of defense. Ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and snow mushroom act like sponges, pulling water into the skin and holding it there.
Want to learn more? Read our blog on Dry vs. Dehydrated Skin to understand how to spot the difference.
The Role of Oils in Skincare
While water feeds the skin, oils protect it . Oils work by forming an occlusive layer on the skin’s surface, which prevents trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL)—the natural process where moisture evaporates from the skin into the air.
But here's the catch: oils do not hydrate the skin. They seal in existing hydration, which is why applying oil to dry skin without a hydrating layer underneath can leave skin feeling even more parched over time.
Even oily or acne-prone skin can benefit from the right oils. When skin lacks hydration, it often overproduces oil to compensate. Introducing lightweight, non-comedogenic facial oils can help balance sebum production and soothe irritation.
Oil vs. Water Finding The Right Balance
Using oil as your only form of moisturizer might feel nourishing at first, but over time, it can lead to dehydration, irritation, or dullness. That’s because oils, while excellent at preventing moisture loss, don’t supply the water your skin needs.
How to use facial oils and get the best of both worlds:
Step 1: Begin with a water-based product, such as a hydrating serum, essence, or lightweight moisturizer, to replenish moisture deep within the skin.
Step 2: Follow with a facial oil or oil-based serum to lock in that hydration and protect the skin barrier.
When used together, these two types of products create the perfect synergy, keeping your skin supple, nourished, and luminous.
How to Use a Facial Oil (The Right Way)
Using a face oil serum correctly can enhance its benefits. When incorporated properly, they nourish and transform your skin. Here’s a guide to integrating a facial oil serum into your routine. Remember, details matter for best results. Follow these steps to maximize the facial oil benefits.
1. Start with Damp Skin
Applying your oil serum on damp skin ensures better absorption. The moisture enhances the oil's penetration. Simply apply after washing your face or spritz a mist before using the serum. This creates a perfect base for a nourishing face oil, ensuring it absorbs deeply into the skin.
2. Apply After Moisturizer (or Mix It In)
Oil serums work best when applied after water-based serums and moisturizer. They seal in the moisture, keeping your skin hydrated longer. Alternatively, you can mix a few drops into your moisturizer. This blend provides a lightweight facial oil finish, enhancing softness without a heavy feel.
3. Less is More
A small amount of oil serum goes a long way. Use only a few drops for your entire face. Applying too much can lead to a greasy texture. Start with a couple of drops to see what your skin needs. You can always add more if required.
4. Adjust for AM or PM
Your routine can vary depending on the time of day. In the morning, use lighter oils for a fresh base. At night, choose richer oils for deeper nourishment. Adapting your application ensures your skin receives what it needs throughout the day or night.
5. Choose the Right Oil for Your Skin
Every skin type can benefit from oil—you just need the right one:
- Oily skin: opt for lightweight options, such as jojoba or grapeseed oil.
- Dry skin: richer oils, such as avocado or marula oil, work well.
- Sensitive skin: try soothing oils like Sacha Inchi Seed or Meadowfoam seed oil.
Each oil serum offers different benefits, so select based on your skin type and concerns. This ensures a personalized skincare experience that enhances your skin’s health and appearance.
Our Favorite Acne-Safe Hydrating Combos
Sorella Apothecary Main Squeeze Hydrating Serum + Sorella Apothecary Facial Nectar
Main Squeeze is rich in humectants like hyaluronic acid and snow mushroom that draw water into the skin. Follow with Sorella’s Facial Nectar, a nourishing yet lightweight facial oil, to lock in moisture and reinforce your skin barrier.
Hale & Hush Hydrate Gel and Hale & Hush Remedy Rehab Oil
Hush Hydrate Gel delivers a soothing rush of hydration and anti-inflammatory support. Remedy Rehab Oil complements it with a blend of calming, antioxidant-rich seed oils to strengthen and repair compromised or sensitized skin.
The Takeaway: Water First, Then Oil
Always start with water-based products before applying oils. This sequence allows serums and moisturizers to penetrate deeply, optimizing their effectiveness. Oil serums then form a barrier, locking in hydration and nutrients. This method is key to achieving smooth and glowing skin. Remember, proper layering is crucial for healthy, balanced skin.
Not Sure Which Combo Is Right for You? Let Us Help!
Choosing the perfect oil serum can feel overwhelming. With numerous options available, finding the right match for your skin type is essential. Consider your specific skin concerns and goals when selecting products.
If you're uncertain, don't hesitate to reach out. Our skincare experts can provide personalized recommendations tailored to your needs. Consulting an AOS esthetician can ensure your skin receives the best care possible, leading to healthier and more radiant skin.
We’re just a free skincare checkup away.
Author
Jeana LeClerc
Jeana LeClerc is a licensed esthetician, Certified Acne Specialist, and the founder and CEO of Art of Skincare. With over 20 years of hands-on experience in the skincare industry, Jeana specializes in regenerative skincare, a powerful, holistic alternative to conventional anti-aging treatments.
Rejecting the pressure of injectables and invasive procedures, Jeana champions science-backed, skin-nourishing solutions that support healthy, youthful skin from the inside out. Her mission is to help clients achieve lasting skin transformation through personalized routines, professional-grade products, and a deep understanding of how the skin functions and regenerates.
At Art of Skincare, Jeana leads a team of expert estheticians dedicated to delivering results-driven skincare, from clearing acne to supporting healthy aging. Her blog and online consultations are trusted resources for those seeking radiant, resilient skin without compromise.
