I want radiant skin! Should I go for an oil-based serum, a cream, or both?
Taking care of your skin requires choosing the right products, and it’s not always easy to determine whether an oil-based serum or a face cream is the better choice. Deciding between the two depends on your skin type, your needs, and how you want to incorporate the product into your routine. Additionally, you can combine both to enjoy their complementary benefits.
What are the differences between an oil-based serum and a face cream?
Oil-based serums and creams differ in their formulations and textures, giving them distinct characteristics.
Oil-based serums for the face are 100% active, water-free, and penetrate deeply to nourish the epidermis. They deliver essential fatty acids (Omegas 3, 5, 6, 7, and 9) and unsaponifiables such as vitamin E and beta-carotene. Their texture varies depending on the plant oils used, their quality, fatty acid composition, and formulation. They can be lighter or richer depending on the ingredients, with varying absorption rates, and leave no greasy residue when well-formulated.
Facial creams are emulsions containing a significant percentage of water to hydrate the skin’s surface. Their texture can range from light to rich, depending on the formulation. They combine an aqueous phase, which hydrates the skin with active ingredients like hyaluronic acid or Aloe Vera, and a lipid phase that nourishes and protects with plant-based oils. Emulsifiers are included to blend the aqueous and lipid phases seamlessly. The creamy texture creates a hydrating and protective layer upon application, providing immediate comfort while strengthening the skin barrier for long-lasting hydration.
The Benefits of Facial Oil-Serums
Nutrition, absorption rapide et efficacité
A serum-oil combines the effectiveness of a serum through its active ingredients with the comfort and nourishment provided by oils. High-quality serum-oils, made from plant-based virgin oils, deliver essential fatty acids and unsaponifiables with unmatched cosmetic benefits. For example, Hemp oil, found in Les Huilettes DAY energizing and anti-imperfection serum, is rich in omega-3, helping to soothe and reduce inflammation. Prickly Pear oil, found in the Les Huilettes NIGHT anti-aging serum, is rich in vitamin E and helps combat signs of aging.
Contrary to some preconceived notions, serum-oils are non-comedogenic and penetrate easily without clogging pores... when they are well-formulated! And that's exactly the case with Les Huilettes serum-oils: our unique formulations combine high-quality botanical oils for maximum benefits!
While a serum-oil does not hydrate directly, as it does not contain water, it plays a crucial role in preventing skin dehydration. Its active ingredients improve the quality of the intercellular cement, thus restoring the lipid barrier and encouraging water retention.
It can therefore be beneficial to combine a serum-oil with a hydrating cream.
The benefits of face creams.
Immediate hydration, comfort, and protection.
Moisturizing creams deliver water to the skin and active ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, providing hydration for soft, plumped skin. Typically formulated to meet the specific needs of different skin types, creams offer a feeling of smoothness and comfort. A beauty cream creates a protective film, especially beneficial for dry skin or skin exposed to external aggressors.
Because they are formulated with water, the proportion of active ingredients in creams can be relatively low.
That's why, at Les Huilettes, we've optimized the formulation of our CREAM to make it a 100% active universal emulsion. How? By replacing water with barley sprout water, rich in micronutrients, vitamins, and minerals. Naturally fermented hyaluronic acid enhances the moisturizing power. We then selected pomegranate, plum, and sunflower oils for their antioxidant and protective properties. Calendula, known for its natural retinol content, provides a smoothing effect, while shea butter offers intense nourishment.
This fragrance-free universal hydrating emulsion, CREAM, guarantees safe and effective hydration, particularly suited for sensitive skin.
How to choose between an oil-serum and a cream based on your skin type?
The choice between an oil-serum and a cream largely depends on your skin type and needs.
- Dry skin: An oil-serum is ideal for restoring the lipid barrier and deeply nourishing the skin. Dry skin will especially benefit from oil-serums rich in omegas, such as those made with Argan or Avocado oil. A richer cream is also suitable for dry skin.
- Oily skin: Contrary to popular belief, certain light oils, like Jojoba oil, help regulate sebum production. Light creams can also be a good option for oily skin that prefers a more fluid texture that absorbs quickly.
- Combination skin: A combination of both, using a serum-oil on dry areas and a light cream on oilier areas, can be ideal.
- Sensitive skin: Combining both is possible as long as the formulation is fragrance-free and non-irritating for delicate skin.
Can you combine an oil serum and cream?
Absolutely, and the mix and match approach is even recommended for optimal benefits. For example, using an oil serum before applying a cream, such as CREAM, helps create a complete skincare routine. Here are two recommended combinations:
- Layering: First, apply a light oil serum to deeply nourish the skin, then follow with a cream to hydrate.
- Direct mix: Mix a few drops of oil serum into a small amount of your cream for a richer texture and enhanced nourishing action.
This approach ensures a skin that is hydrated on the surface and deeply nourished, while providing comfort and protection.
The importance of omegas and unsaponifiables in oil serums
High-quality oil serums, like those from Les Huilettes, contain essential omega fatty acids and unsaponifiables:
- Omega 3: Their anti-inflammatory effects soothe irritated skin.
- Omega 6: They maintain elasticity and strengthen the skin barrier.
- Omega 7 and 9: They promote regeneration and elasticity, while providing an anti-aging effect.
Unsaponifiables (vitamin E, beta-carotene) are also present in high-quality oil serums, providing essential antioxidant and anti-aging properties for luminous and protected skin.
Les Huilettes oil serums: a tailored solution for every need.
You can choose from our range of oil serums to meet your specific needs:
- Huilette DAY, formulated with Hemp and Argan oils, softens, soothes, and boosts radiance thanks to Carrot and Bitter Almond. It reduces imperfections and protects against external aggressions. This oil serum is perfect for daily use!
- Huilette NIGHT is a night serum designed for mature skin. It contains Prickly Pear oil, rich in antioxidant Vitamin E, which combats signs of aging and leaves the skin firmer and smoother upon waking.
- Huilette SENSITIVE has been specially developed for sensitive and reactive skin. This serum, free of essential oils, soothes, protects, and brightens. Thanks to plants like Sea Buckthorn with its omega 7, it promotes skin regeneration and boosts elasticity with Calendula and its natural retinol.
Make an informed choice tailored to your personal routine.
Serum-oil and creams are formulated to provide benefits for your face. The choice is primarily based on your needs and preferences. The mix-and-match option between a serum-oil and a cream allows for a complete routine, combining nourishment and hydration. Adapting your routine according to the seasons and changes in your skin is also key for optimal care.
In addition to choosing quality products suitable for your skin type, it's important to prioritize organic products, meaning those without pesticides: for healthy skin and beauty routines that respect the environment.
It is important to feel and listen to your skin.
To find out which products are recommended for your skin type, try our online beauty diagnosis! In just a few minutes, you will discover a personalized routine that perfectly meets your specific needs!
