Facial Oil vs Face Serum: What’s the Difference?

In the world of skincare, facial oils and face serums are often seen on the same shelf, but they serve very different purposes. Whether you’re building a new skincare routine or trying to understand which product is best for your skin type, knowing the difference between a facial oil and a serum is key.

In this blog, we’ll break down the differences between these two powerful skincare staples, explore how to use them effectively, and highlight the benefits of Lucy Bee’s Organic Vitamin C Face Serum and Anti-Ageing Facial Oil.

What Is a Face Serum?

A face serum is a lightweight skincare product designed to deliver high concentrations of active ingredients deep into the skin. Serums are usually water-based and contain smaller molecules, making them perfect for targeting specific skin concerns like dullness, dehydration, fine lines, or pigmentation.

Key Benefits of Face Serums

• Lightweight and fast absorbing
• Packed with active ingredients (like hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, or niacinamide)
• Ideal for hydrating, brightening, and improving skin texture
• Targets deeper skin layers

Try it: Our Organic Vitamin C Face Serum is rich in vitamin C, rosehip oil, cloudberry seed oil and coconut water, perfect for reviving tired, dull skin and giving you a healthy glow. It’s suitable for all skin types and works wonders as a daily treatment to brighten and even out your complexion.

What Is a Facial Oil?

A facial oil is an emollient-rich product that helps lock in moisture, nourish the skin barrier, and give the skin a soft, dewy finish. They are oil based and are usually composed of plant-derived ingredients and are ideal for hydrating and sealing in active ingredients.

Key Benefits of Facial Oils

• Helps retain moisture
• Strengthens and protects the skin barrier
• Ideal for dry, mature, or sensitive skin
• Gives a radiant, glowing finish

Try it: Our Organic Anti-Ageing Facial Oil is infused with organic rosehip oil, vitamin E, and almond oil, offering a deeply nourishing blend that supports skin elasticity and reduces the appearance of fine lines. It's particularly effective for dry, dehydrated or sensitive skin types, or skin that’s need in extra care. The Facial Oil has been formulated using lightweight oils that sink in beautifully into the skin, with no greasy residue feeling on the skin.

Face Serum vs Facial Oil: Key Differences

Face Serum

Texture: Lightweight, often water-based

Main Function: Treats specific skin concerns

Absorption: Absorbs quickly into deeper layers

When to Use: After cleansing and before moisturiser

Skin Type: All types, depending on what the serum targets

Face Oil

Texture: Rich, oil-based

Main Function: Seals in moisture and protects

Absorption: Sits on top of the skin for nourishment

When to Use: After your serum and before your moisturiser

Skin Type: All types, but especially beneficial for dry, mature, or sensitive skin

Can You Use Face Serums and Facial Oils Together?

Yes, in fact, layering your serum and facial oil can supercharge your skincare routine. Here’s how:

• Cleanse your face.
• Apply the Organic Vitamin C Face Serum to damp skin
• Apply Organic Anti-Ageing Facial Oil
• Follow with your usual moisturiser
• Finish with SPF 30 Face Serum

This method helps maximise the benefits of both products, the serum delivers active ingredients deep into the skin, while the oil creates a protective barrier to keep it all in.

 

What About The SPF 30 Face Serum

You might be wondering where the SPF 30 Face Serum fits into your routine. Although we call it a serum, that’s due to its ultra-lightweight, non-greasy texture, it glides on like a serum but functions as a broad-spectrum sunscreen, protecting your skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays.

This should always be the final step in your morning skincare routine, layered after your face serum and moisturiser (and facial oil, if using). With SPF 30 protection and hydrating hyaluronic acid, it not only shields your skin but also keeps it hydrated and calm throughout the day.

Pro tip: Never skip SPF – even on cloudy days – for healthy, glowing skin all year round.

Which One Is Right for You?

If your main concerns are dullness, dehydration, or uneven skin tone, start with a face serum like Lucy Bee’s Organic Vitamin C Face Serum.

If you’re looking to combat dryness, loss of firmness, or fine lines, a facial oil like our Organic Anti-Ageing Facial Oil is your go-to.

For best results, consider incorporating both into your skincare regime.

Final Thoughts

Understanding the difference between a face serum and facial oil is crucial for building a personalised, effective skincare routine. While serums deliver active ingredients to treat specific skin issues, oils help seal in moisture and nourish the skin’s surface.

At Lucy Bee, we believe in using vegan, cruelty-free and organic and natural ingredients to help you achieve your best skin. Whether you’re new to skincare or a seasoned enthusiast, our Organic Vitamin C Face Serum and Anti-Ageing Facial Oil offer a powerful duo to support radiant, healthy skin.