What’s the Difference Between a Serum, Oil, and Moisturiser?

What’s the Difference Between a Serum, Oil, and Moisturiser?

When it comes to skincare, it can sometimes feel like you need a degree just to understand the order of products! Between serums, oils, and moisturisers, it’s easy to get confused about what each one does — and whether you really need all three.

Let’s break it down simply so you can build the perfect routine for your skin type.

What Is a Serum?

Serums are lightweight, concentrated treatments packed with active ingredients that target specific skin concerns — think hydration, brightening, or anti-ageing.

They’re designed to penetrate deep into the skin, delivering ingredients like hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, or niacinamide directly where they’re needed most.

When to use it:
Apply your serum after cleansing and before moisturiser — this ensures your skin fully absorbs all those powerhouse ingredients.

Best for:

• Dull or uneven skin tone

• Fine lines and wrinkles

• Dehydrated skin

💡 Pro Tip: A few drops go a long way. Apply using gentle, patting motions to avoid wasting product.

What Is a Facial Oil?

Facial oils help lock in moisture and strengthen your skin’s natural barrier. Unlike serums, they don’t deeply penetrate the skin — instead, they seal everything in and leave your skin feeling nourished and soft.

Many oils are rich in fatty acids, vitamins, and antioxidants, making them perfect for protecting the skin from dryness and environmental stress.

When to use it:
Use facial oil after your moisturiser to lock in hydration, or mix a drop into your moisturiser for a dewy glow.

Best for:

• Dry or mature skin

• Anyone who wants that radiant, healthy glow

💡 Pro Tip: If your skin is oily, don’t skip oils entirely — choose a lightweight, non-comedogenic one that won’t clog pores.

What Is a Moisturiser?

Your moisturiser is the essential middleman of your skincare routine. It hydrates and softens the skin, forming a protective layer to keep moisture in and environmental stressors out.

Moisturisers come in all forms — from light gels to rich creams — so you can tailor them to your skin’s needs.

When to use it:
Apply after your serum and before your oil (if using one), morning and night.

Best for:

• Every skin type (the right one makes all the difference)

• Maintaining daily hydration and softness

💡 Pro Tip: Choose a lighter moisturiser for the day and a richer one at night when your skin repairs itself.

How They Work Together

Here’s a quick order guide for layering:

1. Cleanser

2. Toner (optional)

3. Serum

4. Moisturiser

5. Facial Oil (optional)

Each product plays its part — the serum treats, the moisturiser hydrates, and the oil seals it all in. When used together, they create a powerful routine that keeps your skin balanced, radiant, and healthy.

Final Thoughts

Serums, oils, and moisturisers aren’t interchangeable — but they complement each other beautifully. If you’re new to layering, start simple: one serum, one moisturiser, and a light facial oil as needed.

Explore our collection of hydrating serums, nourishing oils, and skin-loving moisturisers to find your perfect match and build your glow-from-within routine today.