What’s the Difference Between a Serum, Oil, and Moisturiser? 💧
With so many skincare products available today, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Serums, oils, and moisturisers often sound like they do the same thing — hydrate and nourish the skin — but each plays a unique role in your skincare routine. Understanding how they work (and in what order to use them) can completely transform your skin’s health and glow.
At The London Brow Company, we love helping you simplify your skincare while making every step effective. Here’s how to tell the difference between these three essentials.
1. Serum: The Targeted Treatment
Think of serums as your skin’s problem solvers. They’re lightweight, fast-absorbing, and packed with concentrated active ingredients that address specific concerns such as dullness, fine lines, or dehydration. Because of their smaller molecules, serums can penetrate deeper into the skin for visible results.
💡 Pro Tip: Apply your serum right after cleansing and before your moisturiser for maximum absorption. Our clients love using serums that contain hyaluronic acid or vitamin C for hydration and brightness.
2. Facial Oil: The Nourishing Protector
Facial oils are all about locking in moisture and providing essential nourishment. They sit on the surface of the skin to strengthen your natural barrier and keep hydration sealed in. Oils are rich in fatty acids and antioxidants, helping to soften, smooth, and protect against environmental stress.
💧 Pro Tip: Use facial oils after your serum or even mix a drop into your moisturiser for an extra boost of hydration. They’re especially beneficial during the colder months when your skin needs a little more love.
3. Moisturiser: The Essential Seal
Moisturisers are your daily defence against dryness. They work by sealing in hydration and supporting the skin’s natural barrier. Whether you choose a lightweight lotion or a rich cream, moisturisers help keep your skin smooth, plump, and balanced.
🌿 Pro Tip: Always finish your routine with a moisturiser to lock in the benefits of your serum and oil. Even oily skin types need hydration — skipping this step can cause your skin to overproduce oil to compensate.
How to Layer Them Correctly
The general rule is lightest to heaviest. Start with your serum, follow with your moisturiser, and finish with your facial oil if your skin needs extra nourishment. This layering method ensures that your skin fully absorbs each product without feeling greasy.
Build a Routine That Works for You
Once you understand the purpose of each product, you can tailor your routine to your skin’s unique needs. Serums treat, moisturisers protect, and oils seal in the goodness — together, they create a perfectly balanced skincare ritual.
At The London Brow Company, we believe in simple, sustainable skincare that delivers real results. Explore our range of vegan, cruelty-free, and high-performance products to help your skin stay healthy, hydrated, and radiant all year round.
Shop our serums and brow oils HERE.