Face Oil or Moisturiser – Do I Need Both?

Notes from Fishponds

It's a question I'm asked surprisingly often.

"If I'm using a face oil, do I still need a moisturiser?"

The simple answer is...

Not always.

But it helps to understand what each one actually does.

What's the difference?

Although they both help your skin, they work in slightly different ways.

A moisturiser is designed to add water to the outer layers of your skin and help keep it there.

A face oil doesn't add water. Instead, it helps lock in moisture that's already on your skin and leaves it feeling soft, comfortable and nourished.

That's why I always recommend applying face oil to slightly damp skin.

Why damp skin?

Think of your face oil as putting the lid on a saucepan.

The water is already there.

The lid simply helps keep it in.

If your skin is completely dry before you apply your face oil, there's much less moisture for the oil to help seal in.

That's why I love applying my face oil after cleansing while my skin is still slightly damp, or after using a gentle facial mist.

It's a tiny change that can make a surprising difference.

So... do I need both?

That depends on your skin.

Many people, especially those with mature or drier skin, find that a nourishing face oil gives them everything they need.

Others prefer to use a light moisturiser first and then apply a few drops of face oil afterwards.

There isn't a right or wrong answer.

The best routine is the one that leaves your skin feeling comfortable.

Why I created a face oil

When I began formulating skincare, I wanted something simple.

No complicated routine.

No long list of products.

Just a blend of beautiful plant oils that my own skin loved.

I chose oils that absorb beautifully, leaving skin feeling soft and comfortable rather than heavy or greasy.

Sometimes the simplest routines are the ones we stick to.

Less can be more

One of the biggest surprises for many people is how little face oil you actually need.

Usually three or four drops is plenty for your whole face and neck.

A little really does go a long way.

Looking ahead...

Very soon, my face oil will have a lovely new companion.

I'm putting the finishing touches to a gentle rose hydrolat facial mist, designed to be used after cleansing and before your face oil.

It's something I've been working on for quite a while, and I can't wait to share it with you.

Watch this space!

Final thoughts

Skincare doesn't have to be complicated.

Whether you choose a moisturiser, a face oil or both, the most important thing is finding products that leave your skin feeling happy.

For me, applying a few drops of face oil to slightly damp skin has become one of those little daily rituals that only takes a minute but feels like a lovely act of self-care.

Sometimes, the smallest moments make the biggest difference.

Have a question?

If there's something you'd like me to write about in Notes from Fishponds, just pop me an email.

If one person is wondering, chances are lots of others are too.

I'd love to hear from you.

Love,

Steph ❤️