Why an Oil Is Not Enough to Moisturize Your Face
Now that we've been in the colder months for a while, I’ve had so many people tell me that their skin is feeling extra dry. When I ask them about their routine, they often tell me they’re using an oil but not a moisturizer—and then it all becomes clear to me. There’s one small change they can make that will transform their skin and keep it from feeling dry all season long.
There’s a common misconception that applying an oil to your face is enough to keep your skin hydrated and moisturized. While facial oils have their benefits, they don’t actually provide the hydration your skin needs to stay healthy and balanced. Instead, they serve a different purpose—sealing in moisture rather than delivering it. You want both things! Let’s break down why using just an oil isn’t quite enough and what your skin truly needs to stay hydrated and nourished.
The Science of Hydration vs. Occlusion
Hydration and moisture are often used interchangeably, but they’re not the same thing. Hydration refers to the water content in your skin, while moisture (or occlusion) is about locking in that hydration. Oils are occlusive agents, meaning they help prevent water loss, but they don’t contain water themselves. That means if you’re only using an oil without a hydrating ingredient underneath, you’re just sealing in whatever moisture is already present—without actually adding any hydration.
Why Moisturizers Are More Effective
A well-formulated moisturizer is designed to provide multiple benefits to the skin. It contains a balance of three key types of ingredients:
Humectants (like hyaluronic acid and glycerin) that draw water into the skin.
Emollients (like ceramides and fatty acids) that help smooth and soften the skin.
Occlusives (like oils and butters) that lock in moisture and prevent dehydration.
By using a moisturizer instead of just an oil, you’re ensuring that your skin gets the hydration it needs and that it stays protected from moisture loss.
The Single-Ingredient vs. Multi-Ingredient Approach
Think of skincare like nutrition: using just a facial oil is like eating a single bell pepper instead of a well-balanced salad packed with a variety of healthy ingredients. While a bell pepper has some great nutrients, it doesn’t give your body everything it needs for a well-rounded diet. Similarly, a facial oil may offer some skin benefits, but it lacks the combination of humectants, emollients, and occlusives that a good moisturizer provides. To get the best results, your skincare routine should be as well-balanced as your diet.
How to Use Oils Effectively in Your Routine
This doesn’t mean you should stop using facial oils altogether! Oils can be a great addition to your routine when used correctly. The best way to incorporate an oil depends on its type and weight—lighter oils may work well under a moisturizer, while heavier oils are better applied on top to seal everything in.
One of my favorite ways to apply facial oil is to dot a few drops onto the skin and then spritz the face with a facial spray before spreading the oil around. This method helps the oil distribute more evenly, ensures a little goes a long way, and introduces a bit of water into the skin at the same time. If you love using oils, opt for ones rich in antioxidants and fatty acids that complement your skin’s needs.
Facial oils can be a great supplement to your skincare routine, but they shouldn’t replace a well-formulated moisturizer. To keep your skin truly hydrated, you need a combination of ingredients that work together to attract, retain, and lock in moisture. So, the next time you reach for your favorite facial oil, make sure it’s complementing your routine—not acting as a standalone moisturizer. Your skin will thank you!
