Face Serums & Oils

Are face oils good?

Yes, they are. A face oil is made from concentrated plant, seed or nut oils that give your skin a noticeable boost of care. With their lightweight texture, they absorb quickly and deliver moisture and nutrients directly, rather than sitting on top.

These face oils are packed with nourishing ingredients that soften rough patches, calm irritation and support your skin barrier. For dry skin, it brings back comfort and smoothness.

If you have oily or sensitive skin, the right face oil can balance sebum and reduce flare-ups. That’s why many people now see them as must-have skincare essentials.

What does serum do for your face?

A serum is a lightweight treatment made with concentrated active ingredients. Because it absorbs so quickly, it delivers targeted benefits that make a visible difference without the heaviness of a cream. For anyone who wants clearer, firmer or brighter results, using it can help transform how your complexion looks and feels over time.

To give you a clear picture, here’s what serums do best:

• Hydrates deeply: Serums can help draw in and hold hydration so your skin feels soft, plump and refreshed.
• Defends with antioxidants: Ingredients like vitamin C and vitamin E help protect your skin from dullness caused by daily environmental stress.
• Targets ageing signs: Many serums smooth the look of fine lines and bring support to mature skin.
• Refines texture: With actives like retinol and bakuchiol, serums encourage smoother and more even skin.
• Supports overall skin health: If you use a serum regularly, your skin can look brighter and feel stronger over time.

Can face oil cause breakouts?

Yes, but it depends on the oil and your skin type. Breakouts can happen if a heavy face oil sits on your skin, trapping sebum, dead cells and bacteria. When this builds up, your pores may clog, which is often how a blemish forms. If you already have oily skin, you might notice this more.

The good news is that not all face oils behave this way. Lighter, non-comedogenic formulas absorb quickly and won’t clog pores. With regular use, they can even help regulate your skin’s oil balance.

By adding hydration, they stop your skin from overproducing sebum in the first place. For sensitive skin or other skin concerns, the right oil can also calm irritation and support a healthy barrier.

When do I use a facial oil and serum?

It depends on your skin type and what your skin needs most. You should use your serum first after cleansing, morning or night. Because it’s lightweight and packed with active ingredients, it absorbs quickly and targets dryness or other specific skin concerns before you move on to richer steps.

A facial oil comes later in your routine, most often at night. To boost comfort, you can pair it with your night cream so hydration stays locked in while you rest. If your skin is on the drier side, you may also add a light layer in the morning for extra nourishment.

How to use face oil and serum

Using a serum and oil in the same skincare routine can provide a range of benefits, including hydration, targeted skin treatment and protection. To get the best results, you need to apply them in the correct order.

We recommend layering them this way:

1. Cleanse: Start with clean skin. Use a gentle face wash or facial cleanser to clear away impurities, makeup and excess oil.
2. Exfoliate: Incorporate exfoliating into your routine for better absorption. Gentle exfoliation a few times a week helps your serum and oil sink in more effectively.
3. Apply serum first: Serums have thinner, water-based textures that absorb quickly and deliver targeted active ingredients.
4. Seal with face oil: As the last skincare step, face oils create an occlusive barrier to lock in hydration and all the previous products, providing a nourishing layer of comfort.
5. Sunscreen: If it’s morning, finish with sunscreen. Always apply it as the last step to protect your skin from UV damage.

Can you layer face serums?

Yes, you can. For many people, layering serums is a way to personalise their routine. Each serum targets different skin concerns, so using more than one means your skin gets care in more than one area. The key is to apply them from lightest to richest texture so each one absorbs properly.

If you are using an oil-based serum, apply it last. Water-based formulas should always go on first. With this order, your skincare products work together instead of getting in the way of each other.

Is oil better than moisturiser?

Not really, because they do different jobs. A moisturiser delivers water-based hydration and supports your skin barrier. If you have dry skin, it helps soften tight patches and keeps your skin comfortable throughout the day.

A face oil works differently. It acts as a topper, sealing in hydration and adding nourishment. To get the best results, apply your moisturiser first and then layer oil on top.

The same approach works for body care. Start with a body lotion for hydration, then add body oil for an extra layer of nourishment.

Which is better for the face, serum or oil?

The answer depends on your skin’s needs. A serum delivers targeted results thanks to its lightweight texture and concentrated actives. It absorbs quickly and works below the surface to address concerns that hydration alone can’t manage.

If your skin needs comfort, opt for a face oil. It seals hydration in, smooths roughness and supports your skin barrier. To get the most benefit, you can apply your serum first and follow with oil as part of your routine.

At Hairhouse, you’ll find face oils and serums that are hydrating and nourishing, with options to suit your skin type and needs. From everyday favourites to bestsellers, you can shop in-store or online and hit checkout to bring targeted care into your routine.