Read the ingredients

Confused about serums and oils? Which is which? These days, many brands call their products ‘serums’. Don’t get caught up on titles. Look at the ingredient list to figure out the difference between a serum vs. an oil.

A serum contains water-soluble ingredients like aloe, fruit extracts, or hyaluronic acid. An oil or blend of oil contains ingredients like jojoba, rosehip, seabuckthorn, and argan. Always apply the lightest products first (like a serum with water soluble ingredients), and work your way to the heaviest products (like your oil blends). 

Face serum vs. oil

A serum in the traditional sense of the word is a water soluble product. It contains highly concentrated ingredients that are meant to target specific skincare concerns like, dehydration, pigmentation, or fine lines. It’s like a specialized treatment, or multi-vitamin for your face. Apply these immediately after cleansing and toning (before moisturizer).

Oils are sourced from a number of therapeutic plants. Just like serums, oils target specific skincare concerns, but also act as a natural barrier for the skin to protect, heal, and nourish. Apply these last. Oil are the last line of defence against the elements and environment.

Watch this!

In this video with well.ca, I explain the difference between the two types of products and when to use either one. Have a watch!