It's a common misconception that face serums and oils are interchangeable. In reality, each serves a different, often very specific, function. The order in which these two products are applied can also be crucial to their effectiveness.

SERUMS

Serums are lightweight, fast-absorbing formulations enriched with highly potent ingredients. They are designed to address specific skin concerns, such as hydration, brightening, or anti-aging. Serums usually have a watery or gel-like consistency, which allows for intensive skin nourishment and provides visible results.

Depending on the active ingredients they contain, serums offer various benefits. There is a wide variety of serums that differ in effect and texture, but the choice should be based on individual skin needs. They can be selectively combined to create the optimal skincare routine for every skin type.

1. Provide moisture

Hydrating serums typically contain humectants like glycerin or hyaluronic acid, as well as other moisturizing ingredients that draw water into the skin and increase its moisture content.
- Youth Boost Collagen Serum
- Lift Effect Peptide Serum
- Hydra Recharge Gel

2. Deliver antioxidants

Antioxidant serums, such as those with niacinamide or vitamin C, provide the skin with antioxidants and protect it from harmful environmental influences.
- HydraCare Skin Serum
- Bright Boost Vitamin C Serum

3. Regulate pigmentation

Serums with acids, such as glycolic acid, help normalize melanocyte activity and brighten skin tone.
- Glow Refine AHA Serum

Face serums often contain incredibly effective moisturizing ingredients that help the skin retain its moisture and an even complexion. However, they should not replace a traditional moisturizer. Serum formulations are not designed to provide intense hydration, but rather to deliver powerful, active ingredients directly into the skin.

Pro-tip: Apply serums and oils not only to the face, but also to the neck and décolleté.

OILS

Face oils are rich, water-free formulations derived from natural plant-based ingredients. They are especially valued for locking in moisture, nourishing the skin, and forming a protective barrier against environmental aggressors. Face oils are particularly beneficial for dry or dehydrated skin, as they replenish lost moisture and restore the skin's natural balance.

The composition of face oils can vary, but generally, they are designed to supplement and support the skin's natural sebum production. Popular ingredients include linoleic acid and squalane, as they mimic the skin's natural oil production and strengthen the skin barrier.

Additional benefits depending on the formulation:

Anti-Aging: 

Oils with antioxidants such as argan oil can help prevent fine lines and wrinkles and protect the skin.
- 11-Oil Elixir

Improving dry skin:

Oils support the skin in cases of dryness and other deficiencies in the skin barrier.
- Balance Repair Face Oil

Pro-tip: If you don't want to use face oils directly because they can visually enlarge pores, simply mix one to two drops of oil into a gel product, such as our Hydra Recharge Gel.

When and how to use serums and oils?

For dry skin, face oils can be beneficial seasonally or year-round. Since oils are occlusive, they should be applied as the last step of your skincare routine after moisturizing. This ensures that all active ingredients are locked in and the skin remains protected from external influences.

Dermatologists generally recommend layering skincare products from the thinnest to the thickest consistency. Water-based products are therefore applied before oils.

Since serums are lightweight, they are used before moisturizer. If needed, they can also be combined with a face oil.