If you’re new to skincare, you will initially feel overwhelmed with the variety of beauty products available in the market today. Moisturisers, serums, facial oils, eye creams, toners – the list goes on. Don’t even get us started on formulas and textures! That’s a story for another day. However, there are two skincare products which most people get confused about – facial oils and face serums. Although they sound similar, they’re actually poles apart!
What Are Facial Oils & Facial Serums?
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First things first, the composition of formulas differ for both products. Think of serums to be like supplements for your skin. Serums are lightweight skincare products that have smaller molecular structures as compared to facial oils. Because of their small molecular structures, they can easily penetrate into the skin and deposit important active ingredients such as peptides, Vitamin C, glycolic acid, retinoids, hyaluronic acid, ceramides, salicylic acid, kojic acid and more. Different face serums target different skin concerns like brightening, pigmentation, wrinkles, redness and so on. In a nutshell, the serum’s job is to deliver active ingredients to the deeper layers of the skin.
Also Read: Best Serums for Oily Skin
Facial oils, on the other hand, have a rich emollient texture and have a heavier consistency than serums. Along with hydration, they provide nourishment to the skin as well. Most facial oils are extracted from seeds, nuts and fruits. Loaded with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, facials oils improve the skin’s texture by making it smooth, radiant and baby soft. While face serums have to be bought based on skin concerns, facial oils have to be bought based on the skin type. If the facial oil is too heavy for the skin, it will clog your pores. Whereas, if it’s lightweight, it won’t be as effective.
What’s The Difference Between Facial Oils & Face Serums
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The main difference is the molecular size of the product. The molecular size in facial oils is larger than that of serums. Which is why the product is unable to reach the deeper layers of the skin. Even though serums are lightweight, they do help to repair and heal the skin from premature ageing, acne and pigmentation.
The final verdict is that you need both of them in your life. You just need to learn how to layer your skincare products properly. Serums are meant to be applied before facial oils. Once you get the order correct, you’re sorted! If you wish to cut down on a skincare step, you can always mix facial oil with your moisturiser and then apply the product to your skin.
Any other skincare product that’s left you confused? Let us know!
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