Do you apply face oil before or after serum?
Apply face oil after your water-based serums, not before. Oils repel water, so applied first they block niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, and peptides from penetrating. Use water-based actives first and oil later to seal the routine in.
Why
Face oils are lipophilic (oil-loving) and water-repellent. Applied before a water-based serum (niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, peptides), they form a physical barrier on the skin surface that water-based actives cannot penetrate. The serums sit on top of the oil layer without reaching the skin. Active ingredients in those serums effectively cannot function.
What to do
Apply all water-based serums and actives first. Face oil is always a later step — after serums, before or instead of moisturiser. Think of it as sealing the routine in, not priming for it.
Good to know
Squalane is a common exception point of confusion — it is a lightweight oil that some users apply mid-routine. Even squalane should go after all water-based actives. The rule is consistent: all lipid-based products (oils, balms, ointments) go after all water-based products, always.
Sources
SkinMama provides skincare information for educational and cosmetic self-care purposes only. It is not medical advice and does not diagnose, treat, or replace a dermatologist. For a medical concern, consult a qualified professional.