Face Oil vs Moisturiser: What’s the Difference and Which One Do You Need?

Facial Oils in four different bottles with flowers growing around

The debate between face oil and moisturizer has puzzled skincare enthusiasts for years. Are they interchangeable? Do you need both? And what’s the difference anyway? At HotChi, we believe in empowering you with the knowledge to make the best choices for your skin.

Spoiler alert: You don’t have to choose. In fact, the real magic happens when you combine them strategically. Let’s break it down and help you decide what works best for your skin and routine.

 

What Is a Face Oil?

Facial oils are lipid-based products made from natural plant oils. Their primary function is to nourish the skin, seal in moisture, and provide a radiant glow. Think of them as the ultimate multitasker, offering hydration, anti-aging properties, and mood-boosting benefits—especially when infused with HotChi’s proprietary Mood Boosting Mindcare Technology®.

Key Benefits of Face Oils

  1. Lock in Moisture: Prevent water loss by forming a protective barrier on the skin.

  2. Boost Glow: Enhance your natural radiance with nutrient-rich oils.

  3. Target Skin Concerns: Address dryness, irritation, or imbalance with targeted ingredients.

  4. Mood Enhancement: Unique to HotChi’s oils, aromatherapy benefits promote emotional balance and relaxation.

What Is a Moisturizer?

Moisturizers are cream, gel, or lotion-based products designed to add water to the skin and keep it hydrated. They typically contain water-binding ingredients like hyaluronic acid or glycerin.

Key Benefits of Moisturizers

  1. Hydrate: Replenish the skin’s water content.

  2. Soften: Smooth rough texture for a supple finish.

  3. Protect: Reinforce the skin barrier to shield against environmental stressors.

 

Key Differences Between Face Oils and Moisturisers

1. Composition

  • Face Oils: Lipid-rich and occlusive, designed to seal moisture in.

  • Moisturisers: Water-based and hydrating, designed to add moisture to the skin.

2. Function

  • Face Oils: Ideal for nourishing and locking in hydration.

  • Moisturisers: Great for boosting and maintaining skin hydration levels.

3. Skin Type Suitability

  • Face Oils: Suitable for all skin types, with the right formulation.

  • Moisturizers: Best for hydration-focused care.

Can Face Oils Replace Moisturisers?

While face oils and moisturizers serve different purposes, there are situations where oils can take the lead:

  • For Dry Skin: Combining both is ideal, but a richer oil like HotChi’s Slay All Day can deeply nourish on its own.

  • For Oily Skin: Lightweight oils such as Run The Show can balance sebum production without overwhelming the skin.

Why Not Both? Creating a Balanced Routine

Using both a moisturizer and a facial oil can amplify their benefits. Here’s how to layer them effectively:

  1. Start with a Moisturizer: Apply a hydrating moisturizer to add water to your skin.

  2. Follow with a Facial Oil: Seal in that hydration with 2-3 drops of HotChi oil.

  3. Bonus Tip: Incorporate HotChi’s Inhale, Massage, Shine method for added relaxation and mindfulness.

 

HotChi’s Take: Why Facial Oils Are a Must-Have

HotChi facial oils offer more than just skincare benefits. Infused with Mood Boosting Mindcare Technology®, they nurture your emotional well-being while addressing skin concerns. From Bring Your Fire for anxiety relief to Shake It Up for a confidence boost, there’s a HotChi oil for every mood and moment.

 

Conclusion

Face oils and moisturizers aren’t rivals—they’re teammates. Together, they create a skincare synergy that leaves your skin hydrated, balanced, and glowing. With HotChi’s facial oils, you get the added bonus of mood-boosting benefits, making them a perfect partner for any moisturizer.

Ready to elevate your skincare game? Explore HotChi’s range of facial oils and discover your perfect match.

Chloe Blog Copywriter for HotChi
WRITTEN BY CHLOE

Chloe is a freelance beauty and wellness writer from London and mum to two adorable cats, Saggy and Jemmy (Sagittarius and Gemini). Chloe says, “I’m all about that balance between looking good and feeling even better. When I’m not discovering the latest beauty trends, you’ll find me traveling to new places, collecting tattoos that tell my story and diving deep into the power of Chi and emotional wellness”.