Face Oils vs. Serums: Which One Does Your Skin Really Need?

Skincare can often feel overwhelming. How do you know what your skin needs from the vast array of products available? At Yawoni, we think skincare should feel intentional, purposeful, and personal. Today, we're demystifying two radiance-boosting skincare products: serums and face oils. Both are potent in their own regard, but understanding their distinctions will allow you to get the most out of your routine.

Difference between Face Oils and Serums

Let's get into it:

Face Oils are nourishing botanical oils that moisturize, soften and safeguard. Face oils lock in moisture to the skin, reinforce the skin's barrier, and give a mesmerizing dewy radiance we all yearn for.

Face serums are rather light and contain many active ingredients focusing on specific concerns. Face serums work for hyper-pigmentation, dullness, fine lines, and acne.

Similarities Between Face oil and serum

• Both help improve moisture retention
• Both provide nutrients and antioxidants
• Both contribute to a healthier skin barrier

But here's the trick: how you layer them matters. Always apply serums before oils for maximum absorption and impact.

The Power of Serums

Looking to target specific skin concerns? Serums are your go-to. Here’s what they do best:

• Brighten your complexion: Vitamin C-rich serums like our Yawoni African Star Apple Serum help fade dark spots and even out tone.
• Smooth rough texture: Hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid plump and refine the skin.
• Combat signs of aging: Retinol and peptides boost collagen and reduce the look of fine lines.
• Limit breakouts: Niacinamide or salicylic acid acts as the control of oil and unclogs pores.

Why Use a Face Oil 

Don't dismiss oils, they do more than moisturize. They:

• Nourish dry skin: Oils like baobab and argan penetrate deep to hydrate
• Balance oil levels: Counterintuitively, non-comedogenic oils like hemp seed keep oily skin matte and in balance
• Lock in your glow: Packed with fatty acids and antioxidants, face oils shield your skin from environmental stressors
• Boost elasticity: Antioxidant-rich oils improve skin firmness and texture over time

Should You Use Both Face Oil and Serum?

Yes, if your skin needs both hydration and targeted skin treatment. Here’s how to decide:

• Use a serum if you’re battling uneven tone, breakouts, or dullness
• Use an oil if your skin feels tight, dry, or in need of extra nourishment
• Use both to create a layered skincare ritual that locks in glow and treats deep concerns

Application Order: Serum First, Oil Second

• For maximum benefits from your routine:
• Wash your face
• Apply serum (lightest product to apply is serum)
• Moisturizer (optional)

Face oil seals it all in, but remember; face oils are occlusives-they lock in everything underneath. Putting the oil on before serum can delay absorption.

Last Thoughts by Yawoni

At Yawoni, we celebrate skincare that honors both science and tradition. Whether you choose our glow-giving Yawoni Huile de Jour Face Oil, a nourishing face oil, or both, remember: your skin is unique, and your glow is yours to define.

Check our unique collection of clean skin care essentials inspired by Africa as you build a skin routine that works best for you. Because it deserves the best- naturally.