They’re applied in the same way (i.e. after cleansing, but before moisturising) and also serve a similar function, which is to provide a booster treatment to the rest of your skin care routine. But that’s largely where their similarities end, so how do you know which to buy?
Facial oils
As you might expect from their name, these are single or blended botanical/herbal oils that are naturally rich in antioxidants, vitamins and/or minerals. They may also include essential oils for even more benefits (such as rose oil for anti-ageing, avocado oil to brighten, tea tree oil for spots, lavender to heal, etc.,) but their main purpose is to lubricate, nourish, soften and protect the skin surface, principally by decreasing moisture loss. This is what makes them particularly suited for dry, dehydrated and mature skins. Happily, they don’t have the greasy properties of baby oil or cooking oil so, although they take a few minutes to absorb, they won’t leave the skin looking oily. After adding moisturiser on top, their protective effects are then locked into the skin, while damaging, drying elements of the atmosphere are locked out.
Why are they so popular? Noella Gabriel, Director of Product and Treatment Development at Elemis, explains, “The body naturally produces its own oil, called sebum, so the body recognises oils very quickly. Because of this similar molecular structure, oil is easily absorbed. You get quicker results when you use an oil, simply because it’s absorbed quicker than a cream molecule.”
Worth trying:
* Trilogy Rosehip Oil, £16.99 for 20ml, which has a super-fine texture and boosts elasticity and suppleness with essential fatty acids
* Pai Echium & Amaranth Age Confidence Facial Oil, £46 for 30ml, which calms sensitivity and irritation, whilst also restoring radiance, hydration and suppleness
Serums
Serums are silky fluids that are lighter than oils and absorb much faster because they’re water-based. They also offer a wider range of targeted benefits, so they can treat wrinkles, sensitivity, dullness, breakouts, loss of firmness and much more. Often referred to as the workhorse of a skincare routine, they can contain 10-15 times more active ingredients than a moisturiser, making them more effective but also more expensive. Fortunately, a few drops go a long way, so 1 oz can last for months, although you’ll still need moisturiser on top to seal their benefits into the skin.
Noella Gabriel says, “A serum has a molecular structure that falls between an oil and a cream so it is quickly absorbed, making it good for layering. You only need to apply a thin layer, then follow with your moisturiser. A serum should be non-sticky, non-oily and it will enhance the performance of your moisturiser.”
Worth trying:
* Elemis Pro-Collagen Quartz Lift Serum, £99 for 30ml, which lifts, firms and rejuvenates with mineral-rich algae, precious minerals and argan oil.
* A’kin Cellular Radiance Serum, £26 for 23ml, which revitalises even sensitive, fragile skins with omega oils and antioxidants
With such a wide range of benefits, choosing the right product is as easy (or difficult) as choosing your moisturiser. So why not start with the brand of skincare that you already like – and simply ask the consultant for her recommendations.
Have you got a favourite facial oil or serum? We’d love to know…
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