Derm DMs: Is facial oil applied before or after moisturizer?

Just multi-level skin care has become more popular, it can still be difficult to know which product to use and when. And while you've probably mastered layering tonic before serum, you may experience difficulties when trying to use two products from the same category. Such is the case with layering oils and moisturizers, which both fall into the category moisturizer category. This type of layering, aptly named "double hydration," is loved for its ability to induce a hydrated, dewy glow, and is also beneficial for those with dry skin whose goal is hydration. retain moisture in the skin. So, which should you apply first: moisturizer or oil? To find out, we contacted dermatologist and skincare.com consultant Kavita Marivalla, MD.

If you were to guess the oil, or use the thinnest to thickest rule of thumb, then you would be absolutely right. You should use facial oil before moisturizer, Dr. Marivalla says, because oils and serums tend to contain more actives than moisturizers, and depending on the moisturizer, cream can reduce the effectiveness of the oil. If you choose to layer, Dr. Marivalla recommends pairing a light oil with an occlusive moisturizer (we love CeraVe Healing Ointment), which helps retain moisture.

While double moisturizing is all the rage, Dr. Marivalla warns that oils are not for everyone. "I generally advise patients to use serums more than oils," she says, adding that patients generally don't get breakouts from serums and they're easy to add to multi-step treatments. She strongly recommends avoiding oils and moisturizers if you have oily or acne-prone skin because the extra layers of product can clog pores. Even if you have a non-oily or acne-prone skin type, we recommend testing this method before going full on — like double moisturizing at night only, to begin with — and work your way up to full coverage over time.

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