Facial Oil vs Moisturiser: Which Is Better for Glowing Skin?
If you’ve ever stood in front of your skincare shelf wondering whether you really need both a moisturiser and a facial oil… you’re not alone.
The facial oil vs moisturiser question is one of the most common in skincare — and the answer is simple: they do different jobs, and when used correctly, they can work beautifully together to create naturally glowing skin.
In this guide, I’ll explain the difference, how to layer them, and how a luxury facial oil can elevate your glow without feeling heavy or greasy.
What’s the Difference Between Facial Oil and Moisturiser?
A moisturiser is designed to hydrate the skin using ingredients like humectants (that draw water into the skin) and occlusives (that help reduce moisture loss).
A facial oil is designed to nourish, soften and seal, helping lock in hydration while delivering botanical lipids that support the skin barrier and radiance.
In simple terms:
- Moisturiser = hydration + water-based support
- Facial oil = nourishment + barrier comfort + glow
When Moisturiser Is Enough
A moisturiser alone can be enough if your skin is:
- naturally balanced
- not prone to dryness or dehydration
- already maintaining a strong barrier
But if you experience dullness, tightness, uneven texture or seasonal dryness, adding a facial oil can make a noticeable difference.
Why a Luxury Facial Oil Can Boost Glowing Skin
One of the reasons a luxury facial oil for glowing skin works so well is that it helps seal in the hydration you’ve already applied.
When your skin is properly nourished and comfortable, it reflects light more evenly — which is what we read as “glow”.
A high-quality blend featuring jojoba and botanical oils can also support:
- softness and elasticity
- smoother-looking texture
- a calm, balanced complexion
Facial Oil vs Moisturiser: Which Should You Apply First?
This part matters.
In most routines, but its honestly up to you!
✅ Apply moisturiser first
✅ Apply facial oil last
Why?
Facial oil acts like a soft seal to lock in everything beneath it.
Best layering order:
- Cleanser
- Mist/toner (optional)
- Serum (optional)
- Moisturiser
- Facial oil
- SPF (morning)
Can You Use a Facial Oil Instead of Moisturiser?
Sometimes, yes.
If you have very dry or mature skin, you may prefer facial oil alone, especially at night.
But for many skin types, the best results come from using both:
- moisturiser hydrates
- facial oil seals + nourishes
This is why the facial oil vs moisturiser debate isn’t really “either/or” — it’s about choosing what your skin needs.
Who Benefits Most From Adding a Facial Oil?
A facial oil is especially helpful if you have:
- dry or dehydrated skin
- dull or tired-looking skin
- uneven texture
- skin that feels tight after cleansing
- seasonal sensitivity
- a compromised barrier
If you want your skin to look smooth, supple and luminous, a luxury facial oil is one of the most effective additions to your routine.
The Luxury Glow Shortcut: Finish With Botanical Nourishment
If you’re building a routine for glowing skin, think of moisturiser as the hydration step — and facial oil as the finishing touch.
A luxury facial oil completes the ritual by enhancing comfort, softness and radiance while supporting the skin barrier.
If you’d like to experience the glow-enhancing benefits of botanical oils, explore our Luxury Facial Oil – Botanical Radiance Blend, handcrafted in the UK with jojoba, frankincense, lavender, jasmine and rose geranium.
✨ Shop the Luxury Facial Oil here → Luxury Facial Oil for Glowing Skin | Botanical Radiance
