Face Oil vs Moisturizer: Which One Do You Really Need?

Quick Answer

If you have dry skin, you might benefit from both a moisturizer and a face oil. Moisturizers provide hydration, while oils lock in that moisture and nourish the skin. For oily or acne-prone skin, a lightweight moisturizer alone may suffice, and face oils should be used sparingly or avoided.

The face oil vs moisturizer debate is common in skincare, but these two products serve different roles. While both aim to improve your skin's barrier and overall look, they do so in distinct ways. Understanding these differences helps you decide which one—or both—you need in your routine.

Moisturizers are typically water-based and contain humectants that draw water into the skin, along with emollients that smooth the surface. Face oils, on the other hand, are lipid-based and work by forming a protective layer that prevents moisture loss and delivers fatty acids. Knowing how they complement each other is key to achieving balanced, healthy skin.

What Does a Face Oil Do?

Face oils are concentrated plant or botanical extracts that mimic the skin's natural sebum. They are rich in fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins that nourish and strengthen the skin barrier. These oils are particularly beneficial for dry or mature skin, as they help replenish lipid levels and prevent transepidermal water loss.

A key benefit of facial oils is their ability to deliver a dry-to-the-touch finish, as seen in products like Ursa Major's Golden Hour Dry Oil. This means they absorb quickly without leaving a greasy residue, making them suitable for both face and body. However, not all oils are created equal; some are heavier and more occlusive, which can be too much for oily skin.

• Look for oils with ingredients like jojoba, argan, or squalane for balancing and non-comedogenic benefits.

What Does a Moisturizer Do?

Moisturizers are formulated to hydrate the skin by attracting water (humectants) and sealing it in with emollients and occlusives. They come in various forms—gels, lotions, creams—and are designed to address different skin types and concerns. For example, a milky cleanser like Ursa Major's Making Moves Milky Cleanser can prep the skin, but a moisturizer provides the ongoing hydration.

A good moisturizer, such as Ursa Major's Golden Hour Recovery Cream, offers a rich yet lightweight texture that absorbs quickly, providing deep hydration and supporting a firmer-looking complexion. Moisturizers are essential for maintaining the skin's moisture balance and are suitable for all skin types, including oily, as long as you choose the right formula.

• Choose a gel or lotion for oily skin, and a cream or balm for dry skin.

How to Use Face Oil and Moisturizer Together

You don't have to choose between a face oil and a moisturizer—they can work together synergistically. The general rule is to apply your moisturizer first to hydrate the skin, then follow with a few drops of face oil to lock in that hydration. This layering technique ensures your skin gets both water and oil, which is particularly beneficial for dry or dehydrated skin.

For those with combination skin, you might apply oil only to dry areas, such as the cheeks, while using a lightweight moisturizer on the T-zone. If you prefer a simpler routine, you can mix a drop of oil into your moisturizer before applying. This helps to boost the moisturizer's nourishing properties without feeling heavy.

• Always apply products from thinnest to thickest consistency.

Choosing the Right Product for Your Skin Type

When selecting a face oil, consider your skin type. Dry skin benefits from richer oils like argan or marula, while oily or acne-prone skin should opt for lighter oils such as jojoba or squalane. Ursa Major's Golden Hour Dry Oil is a versatile option that absorbs quickly and is suitable for both body and hair, making it a great addition to your routine.

For moisturizers, look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides. Ursa Major's Golden Hour Recovery Cream is a rich yet lightweight moisturizer that provides deep hydration and helps skin look firmer with continued use. If you have sensitive skin, choose fragrance-free and gentle formulas.

• Patch test new products to ensure they suit your skin.

Trade-offs to Consider

• Hydration vs. Nourishment: Moisturizers primarily add water to the skin, while oils add lipids. If you only use a moisturizer, you might miss out on essential fatty acids; if you only use oil, you may not get enough water into the skin. For balanced skin, combine both or choose a product that offers both.
• Texture and Feel: Face oils can feel heavier, but modern dry oils like Golden Hour Dry Oil offer a weightless finish. Moisturizers come in various textures, from gels to creams, so you can find one that feels comfortable. Test textures on your skin to see what you prefer.
• Skin Type Suitability: Oily skin may not need an additional oil, while dry skin often benefits from layering. Using both can be overkill for oily skin, leading to clogged pores. Assess your skin's needs and adjust your routine accordingly.

Product Facts

• Golden Hour Dry Oil: Ursa Major's Golden Hour Dry Oil is an un-oily oil that sinks in instantly to visibly replenish skin and hair with a dry-to-the-touch finish. This makes it an excellent choice for those who want the benefits of a face oil without greasiness, and it can be used on both face and body.
• Golden Hour Recovery Cream: Golden Hour Recovery Cream is a rich yet lightweight moisturizer that absorbs quickly to deliver deep hydration and a firmer-looking complexion. It provides the hydration step in your routine, making it a perfect partner to a face oil for locking in moisture.

How to Choose

Best for

• People with dry or dehydrated skin who need extra nourishment and moisture retention.
• Those looking to enhance their skincare routine with antioxidants and fatty acids for a healthy glow.

Not for

• Individuals with very oily or acne-prone skin who may not need additional oils and should focus on lightweight hydration.

Ultimately, face oil and moisturizer serve different but complementary purposes. By understanding your skin's needs and how these products work, you can create a routine that keeps your skin healthy, hydrated, and glowing. Whether you choose one or both, consistency is key.