Oil Before or After Moisturiser: The Order

The sequence in which you apply skincare products dictates how effectively they perform. A common point of confusion is whether a facial oil should precede or follow your daily moisturiser. In a proper skincare sequence, the rule is to move from water-based products to oil-based products.

Applying an oil before a water-based moisturiser creates a barrier that prevents the latter from penetrating the skin. Therefore, the oil must always be the final step in your evening routine to lock in the preceding layers.

1. Cleanse and dampen. Begin with a clean face to remove debris and oils from the day. Pat the skin with a towel until it is slightly damp rather than soaking wet. Applying products to damp skin assists in the absorption of your water-based treatments.
2. Apply your moisturiser. Distribute a nickel-sized amount of moisturiser evenly across your face and neck. Massage the product in until it is almost fully absorbed by the skin. This step provides the hydration that your skin requires before sealing it in.
3. Warm the oil. Dispense two to three drops of facial oil into the palms of your hands. Rub your hands together briefly to warm the product. Warming the oil thins the consistency, allowing for a more even distribution across the skin surface.
4. Press into the skin. Gently press your palms into your cheeks, forehead, and chin. Do not rub vigorously, as this may disrupt the moisturiser applied in the previous step. The pressing motion ensures the oil sits on top of the skin to create a protective seal.

Water-based layers provide hydration; oil-based layers ensure it stays there.